Working Without a Building Permit in Toronto

If construction starts without a required building permit, the City may take action. Possible consequences include: • ADDITIONAL FEES — an extra fee applies when work begins before a required permit is issued. • WORK MAY BE STOPPED — an order can require construction to stop until a permit is obtained. • WORK MAY NEED TO BE UNCOVERED — finished walls, ceilings or floors may have to be opened so inspectors can see the framing, plumbing, insulation or structure. • COMPLETED WORK MAY REQUIRE CHANGES — if the work does not meet the Building Code or the approved plans, it may need to be altered or removed. • PROJECT DELAYS — obtaining a permit after the fact, plus corrections, can add weeks or months. • FUTURE PROBLEMS — unpermitted work can raise questions when selling, refinancing or making an insurance claim. THE OWNER IS RESPONSIBLE Property owners remain responsible for compliance, even if a contractor did the work. Before starting, confirm whether a permit is required and who will apply for it.