GS-01 · By Aluma · Most-common ADU type

Detached garden suite.

Standalone unit in your backyard. Independent foundation, services, and entrance. Up to 75m² in Hamilton — varies by municipality.

Best for lots with at least 7m of backyard depth past the main house. Setbacks apply from main house, side lot lines, and rear lot line. We measure all of that at the walkthrough and tell you what's possible before you spend anything.

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What a detached suite looks like.

Detached suite · Typical specs
Max gross floor area (Hamilton) 75 m²
Typical footprint 5m × 9m to 7m × 12m
Foundation Independent slab or basement
Services Separate water, electrical, optional gas
Entrance Off backyard or side yard
Setback (typical) 1.2m from lot lines, 3m from main house
Parking required 0 (Bill 23)
Permit timeline 8–14 weeks (varies by city)

Exact specs vary by municipality. Confirmed at walkthrough.

Common uses.

What people build detached suites for

Multigenerational housing

Aging parents, adult children, or extended family with independent space on the same lot.

Rental income

Long-term rental income from a unit you own — separate entrance, separate address.

Home office / studio

Workshop, art studio, or remote-work office that keeps the main house separate.

Future-proofing

Build it now while you have the equity; rent or use as needed over time.

Detached suites built to OBC, with the same $2M general liability, WSIB current, and written warranties as every Aluma project. Across Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, the GTA, and southern Ontario.

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