Empire Design

Not all rental suites are created equal.. and in BC, picking the wrong type can mean leaving thousands on the table every single year.

Basement suite. Garden suite. Laneway. Secondary unit. Lock-off.

Each one has different rules, different build costs…

and a completely different impact on cashflow and resale.

The biggest mistake?

Choosing based on what “seems simple,” instead of what maximizes your lot, your zoning, and your long-term return.

The right rental suite isn’t about adding a door and a kitchen.

It’s about building wealth the smart way, on the same land you already own.

While other cities rush updates and rewrite zoning on the fly, Delta is doing the opposite.. they’re slowing down, simplifying, and preparing one stable SSMUH system for 2026.
This is good news for strategic homeowners.
Here’s the clean version: 40% lot coverage across the board, up to four units, simplified setbacks, attic permissions, and predictable parking.
If you want to be ready the day zoning drops, start planning now.

has revised SSMUH three times already.. with more changes expected through
early 2026.
In this video I break down what actually changed, what the numbers mean for your lot, and
the smartest move depending on where you are in your design process.
If you’re planning units in Burnaby, clarity now will save you months later.

Langley: Growth here may be measured but the returns can compound quickly.

The city of Langley now permits up to 3 units on small lots, and 4 on standard lots.