Thinking about buying a lot in Toronto? Don’t sign the paperwork until you know what’s hiding beneath the surface. Zoning restrictions, protected trees, easements, heritage rules, poor soil, servicing issues, and Committee of Adjustment requirements can add tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars to your project. Before you invest, discover the 15 critical checks every custom home builder should complete to avoid costly surprises and build with confidence.

Choosing a custom-home lot in Toronto requires more than finding the right neighbourhood. Learn how zoning, lot dimensions, trees, grading, utilities, permits and construction access can affect your design and budget.

As-built drawings record how a construction project was actually completed, including changes to the original design. Learn when Toronto homeowners, contractors and commercial property owners need them.

A topographic survey records a property’s boundaries, elevations, buildings, trees and physical site features. Learn why it may be required before designing a Toronto custom home, addition or major renovation.

The Electrical Safety Authority, known as the ESA, oversees electrical safety in Ontario. Learn when electrical work requires an ESA notification, inspection and Certificate of Acceptance.