When, why, and how to access Building Records in toronto
Most Toronto homeowners start renovation or home building projects blind to their property's construction history. They demolish walls without knowing what's behind them. They plan additions without understanding existing structural systems.
This approach costs thousands in preventable mistakes.
Building permit records hold the answers. For just $74.02 (2025 value), Toronto homeowners can access decades of construction documentation that reveals how their property was actually built.
We've seen this pattern repeatedly in our projects. Homeowners assume previous work was done correctly. They trust that basement apartments are legal. They guess at structural modifications.
The records tell a different story.
When Records Change Everything
On a recent Scarborough home extension project, building records revealed the exact joist directions in the existing structure. This allowed us to properly engineer the connection points and avoid costly re-engineering during construction.
Another project uncovered an illegal basement apartment that the homeowner believed was permitted. We identified this issue before the client committed to their garden suite design process. No money had been exchanged yet.
The alternative would have been devastating. Discovering unpermitted work during construction means project delays, budget overruns, and potential fines so it is better to uncover any problems before or during the design process.
The Simple Request Process
Getting your building records takes minutes to request. Fill out the form on the City of Toronto website and email it to bldrecords@toronto.ca.
You'll need proof of ownership and the $74.02 fee. Toronto Building processes requests within 30 business days.
That's it. For less than $75, you get access to every historical permit on your property.
Reading Between the Lines
Raw building records look like technical drawings and permit numbers. The real value comes from professional interpretation.
We work with our architectural partners to analyze what the documents show versus what was actually built. Sometimes there are discrepancies. Previous contractors might have deviated from approved plans.
Newer permits provide more useful information. Records from the last 10 years typically contain detailed specifications we can apply to current projects. Older permits might show basic structural information that still proves valuable.
The key is matching historical work to your proposed project. If previous renovations touched the same areas you're planning to modify, those records become invaluable.
Why Most Contractors Skip This Step
Many contractors wait until permits are in hand before dedicating real effort to project planning. They prefer to deal with surprises as they arise during construction.
We consider building records research an opportunity to demonstrate expertise upfront. It separates us from contractors who want premature commitments without proper investigation.
This approach filters out clients looking to cut corners. It builds trust with homeowners who value thorough preparation over rushed timelines.
Smart renovation planning starts with understanding what came before. Your property's construction history affects every future project decision.
The $74 investment in building records often prevents thousands in construction surprises. That's the kind of math that makes sense for any serious renovation project.
About BVM COntracting
BVM Contracting is a full-service General Contractor or Home Builder located in Toronto. We provide home renovation and building services for major home renovations and custom home builds (full interior renovations, home additions, lot severances, new home construction, and laneway suites). Our goal is to help guide our clients through the process of building their home, from concept to completion.
Further than providing General Contracting and Project Management for major home renovations, we also offer value-added services such as renovation financing, renovation rebate consultations and services, building permit and design services, smart home installation services, and real estate investor services.
To learn more about our offering by visiting our services page.