The Ontario Building Code | Change of Use and Compensating Construction
9.40.2.1. Change of Use and Compensating Construction
(1) Where proposed construction will result in a change of use described in Clauses 9.40.1.1.(1)(a) to (e), additional construction shall be required in order that the building or part of a buildingsubject to the change of use conforms to the requirements of Subsections 9.5.1. and 9.5.3. to 9.5.10., Section 9.6., Article 9.7.2.3. Sentences 9.7.5.1.(2) and 9.7.6.2.(1) and (3), Articles 9.8.8.1. and 9.9.10.1., Subsection 9.10.17. and Sections 9.31., 9.32. and 9.34. as they apply to the new major occupancy that the building or part of a building is to support.
Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 9.40.2.1.(1) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "Clauses 9.40.1.1.(1)(a) to (e)" and substituting "Clauses 9.40.1.1.(1)(a) to (d)". (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 135)
(2) For the purposes of this Article, existing buildingsshall be classified as to their construction and occupancy as provided for in Sentence 11.2.1.1.(1).
In Plain Language
Where a house undergoes a change of use, compensating construction may be required, as set out in this article, ensuring the building still meets an acceptable safety level for its new use.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.