Overview
What Is a Multiplex?
A multiplex is a residential building containing two to four self-contained dwelling units on a single lot. Duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes offer a proven path to building rental income while contributing to neighbourhood housing supply.
In 2023, the Province of Ontario passed Bill 23 (More Homes Built Faster Act), which allows up to three units as-of-right on most residential lots across the province. Many municipalities, including Toronto, have expanded this to permit up to four units without rezoning or minor variance applications.
Recurring Rental Income
Multiple units generate stable monthly cash flow
Property Value Growth
Multi-unit properties appreciate faster than single-family
Live + Earn
Occupy one unit, rent the others to offset your mortgage
Community Contribution
Add much-needed housing to your neighbourhood
Your Options
Choose Your Configuration
Duplex
2,000–3,500 sq ft total
- ▶Side-by-side or stacked configuration
- ▶Convert existing home or build new
- ▶Ideal for adding one rental unit
- ▶Simplest multiplex option
Triplex
3,000–5,000 sq ft total
- ▶Three stacked floors with separate entrances
- ▶Maximum rental potential on standard lot
- ▶Popular as new build
- ▶Strong ROI for investor-builders
Fourplex
4,000–6,500 sq ft total
- ▶Maximum density under current zoning
- ▶Highest income potential
- ▶Purpose-built design
- ▶Popular with experienced investors
The Investment Case
Why Multiplex?
$3,500+/mo
Rental Income
2–3x
Value Uplift
6–8%
Cap Rate
Our Process
How We Build Your Multiplex
01
Site & Zoning Analysis
We evaluate your lot's development potential under current municipal zoning regulations.
02
Feasibility & Pro Forma
Preliminary budget, rental projections, and ROI analysis to validate the investment case.
03
Architectural Design
Custom floor plans, 3D renderings, and unit configurations optimized for your lot and goals.
04
Engineering & Permits
Full engineering package and building permit submission. We manage all municipal interactions.
05
Detailed Proposal
Fixed scope, itemized budget, and milestone-based payment schedule before construction begins.
06
Demolition & Site Prep
Existing structure removal (if applicable), excavation, and foundation work.
07
Construction
Framing, mechanical, interior finishing. Regular progress reports and site walkthroughs throughout.
08
Handover
Final inspections, occupancy permits, and unit-by-unit walkthrough with warranty documentation.
What to Expect
Timeline & Investment
Typical Timeline
6–10 wks
Design + Engineering
12–20 wks
Permits
8–14 mo
Construction
12–18 mo
Total
Investment Ranges
$700K–$1.2M
Duplex (2,000–3,500 sf)
$1.2M–$1.8M
Triplex (3,000–5,000 sf)
$1.5M–$2.5M
Fourplex (4,000–6,500 sf)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Under Ontario's Bill 23 and Toronto's updated bylaws, up to four units are permitted as-of-right on most residential lots. No rezoning or minor variance is typically required.
Absolutely. This is one of the most popular strategies — occupy the largest unit and rent the remaining units to offset your mortgage.
Financing options include conventional construction mortgages, CMHC-insured programs for purpose-built rentals, and private lending. Rental income projections can help qualify for higher loan amounts.
Toronto has eliminated minimum parking requirements for additional residential units. However, we can design parking solutions if desired for marketability.
Typical multiplex new builds take 8–14 months of construction after permits are issued. Total project timeline including design and permits is typically 12–18 months.
Purpose-built rental units first occupied after November 15, 2018 are exempt from rent control under Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act. We recommend consulting a real estate lawyer for specific guidance.