The Ontario Building Code | Basic Renovation
11.3.3.1. Basic Renovation
(1) Except as provided in Sentence (2) and Article 11.3.3.2., constructionmay be carried out to maintain the existing performance level of all or part of an existing building, by the reuse, relocation or extension of the same or similar materials or components, to retain the existing character, structural uniqueness, heritage value, or aesthetic appearance of all or part of the building, if the construction will not adversely affect the early warning and evacuation systems, fire separationsor the structural adequacy or will not create an unhealthy environment in the building.
(2) Construction in respect of a hotel, a Group B, Division 3 occupancy or a retirement home regulated under the Retirement Homes Act, 2010that is a Group C occupancy may be carried out in accordance with Sentence (1) only if the constructionwill be in conformance with the Fire Code made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.
Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 11.3.3.1.(2) of Division B of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 138)
(2) Construction in respect of a Group B, Division 3 occupancy, a hotel or a retirement home may be carried out in accordance with Sentence (1) only if the construction will be in conformance with the Fire Code made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.
In Plain Language
A basic renovation, a smaller-scope category of renovation work, must meet the requirements set out in this article.
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.