Rich by Design

Trusted General Contractor in Etobicoke | Expert Condo & Home Renovations

Serving Etobicoke homeowners and condo residents for over 15 years with in-house teams, expert condo board navigation, and comprehensive renovation services across all neighborhoods.

  • 15+ Years Serving Etobicoke

  • Licensed Trade Teams

  • Condo Board Specialists

  • Fully Insured & WSIB Compliant

Etobicoke humber bay shores view

About Us

Full spectrum Etobicoke experience

Rich by Design has been transforming Etobicoke homes and condos for over 15 years, establishing ourselves as the go-to general contractor for both waterfront high-rises and established residential neighborhoods. Our deep understanding of Etobicoke's unique renovation landscape—from navigating condo board approvals in Humber Bay Shores to respecting the character of homes in The Kingsway—sets us apart from typical contractors.

In-house local expertise

Unlike competitors who rely on subcontractors, we maintain in-house teams across all major trades. This means better quality control, faster project timelines, and a single point of accountability for your Etobicoke renovation. Whether you're updating a condo kitchen in Mimico or finishing a basement in Alderwood, our local expertise ensures your project meets municipal requirements and exceeds your expectations.

Etobicoke neighborhoods we Serve

  • Mimico

  • Long Branch

  • Alderwood

  • Humber Bay Shores

  • The Kingsway

  • Islington Village

  • Princess Gardens

  • Markland Wood

  • New Toronto

  • and the rest of Etobicoke...

Services We Provide in Etobicoke

Complete Renovation Solutions for Your Etobicoke Property
Etobicoke kitchen remodelled by Rich by Design team

Condo Requirements

Renovating in Etobicoke: What You Need to Know

Condo Renovations in Etobicoke's High-Rises

Etobicoke's waterfront has experienced tremendous growth with luxury condo developments in Humber Bay Shores, Mimico, and along Lake Shore Boulevard. These properties present unique renovation challenges that require specialized expertise:

  • Condo Board Approval Process:

  • Comprehensive renovation applications with floor plans, specifications, and timelines

  • Proof of contractor insurance (minimum $5 million liability)

  • WSIB clearance certificates

  • Elevator booking and scheduling coordination

  • Adherence to building-specific renovation hours (typically 8am-6pm weekdays)

  • Sound Transmission Requirements: High-rise living means being mindful of neighbors. We incorporate:

  • Acoustic underlayment for flooring installations

  • Sound-rated drywall for demising walls

  • Proper scheduling to minimize disturbance

  • Coordination with property management on noise-sensitive work

  • Logistics & Access:

  • Material delivery coordination with building loading docks

  • Elevator padding and booking systems

  • Parking passes for trade vehicles

  • Waste removal and disposal through building systems

  • Protection of common areas during material transport

Detached Homes Needs

Etobicoke Residential Home Renovations

Beyond the condos, Etobicoke's established neighborhoods like The Kingsway, Alderwood, and Princess Gardens feature beautiful detached homes with their own renovation considerations:

Heritage Character Homes: Many Etobicoke homes date back to the 1940s-1960s and feature solid construction but outdated systems. Common renovation needs include:

Electrical: 
Electrical panel upgrades (60-amp to 200-amp service)
Plubming: 
Plumbing modernization (replacing galvanized pipes)
Heating: 
Insulation improvements for energy efficiency
Kitchen: 
Kitchen and bathroom layouts that don't meet modern needs
Basement: 
Basement waterproofing and moisture control

Property Line Considerations: Etobicoke lots vary significantly in size. We navigate:

Zoning: 
City of Toronto setback requirements for additions
Privacy: 
Privacy concerns with neighboring properties
Regulations: 
Drainage and grading regulations
Environment: 
Tree protection bylaws (Etobicoke has strict mature tree regulations)
Legal basement appartment in Etobicoke

Service Area

Etobicoke Neighborhoods We Serve

Mimico | Long Branch | Alderwood | Humber Bay Shores | The Kingsway | Islington Village | Princess Gardens | Markland Wood | New Toronto | Stonegate | Edenbridge | Westmount | Richview | Thistletown

Etobicoke humber bay shores view

Humber Bay Shores

Etobicoke's densest condo district with newer high-rise towers. Specialties: condo renovations requiring board approval, modern kitchen and bath updates, flooring installations with acoustic requirements.

House siding service

Mimico

Rapidly transforming with new condos and renovated historic homes. Popular projects: condo kitchen and bathroom updates, open-concept main floor renovations in bungalows.

Outdoor deck

Long Branch

Mix of waterfront condos and established residential streets. Known for: basement apartments, bathroom renovations, kitchen modernizations in post-war homes.

Legal basement appartment in Etobicoke

Alderwood

Family-friendly neighborhood with mid-century homes. Common renovations: finished basements, kitchen expansions, bathroom additions, deck and outdoor spaces.

Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring in the living room

Islington Village

Charming commercial district with surrounding residential areas. Popular work: main floor renovations, kitchen updates, bathroom remodels, finished basements.

Backyard Patio

New Toronto

Historic area undergoing revitalization near the lake. Trending projects: heritage home updates, kitchen and bathroom modernization, basement finishing, adding second bathrooms.

Etobicoke featuring garden and houses

Princess Gardens & Markland Wood

Established areas with larger lots and varied housing stock. Common requests: home additions, luxury bathroom renovations, kitchen expansions, finished basements with walk-outs.

Etobicoke the Kingsway

The Kingsway

Prestigious neighborhood with large properties and character homes. Projects include: luxury kitchen renovations, heritage-appropriate additions, primary suite expansions, whole-home updates.

Portfolio

Recent Etobicoke Projects

Transforming Etobicoke homes with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.

We were thrilled to deliver a standout build and outfitting project for Elevate Beauty Lofts, one of Toronto’s premier full-service hair and aesthetics salons. Our mission was to build the space into a modern, sunlit retreat for beauty and wellness, combining industrial charm with contemporary elegance. With only six weeks to bring this vision to…

Show more

We transformed this Queensway Street condo into a sleek and stylish modern living space in just three weeks, delivering a stunning renovation that exceeded the client’s expectations. The goal was to enhance functionality while bringing a fresh, contemporary feel to the home. We updated the kitchen with custom dark cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a…

Show more

Etobicoke Building Permits & Regulations

When You Need a Permit in Etobicoke

As part of the City of Toronto, Etobicoke projects follow Toronto Municipal Code requirements. Building permits are required for:

  • Structural Work:

    • Removing or modifying load-bearing walls

      Requires engineering approval and inspections to ensure structural integrity and safety compliance.

    • Home additions or extensions

      Any increase in building footprint or height requires permits, site plan approval, and zoning compliance verification.

    • Deck construction over 24 inches high

      Elevated decks need permits for structural safety, proper footings, and guardrail requirements.

    • Basement underpinning or lowering

      Complex structural work requiring engineer drawings, soil reports, and multiple inspections throughout the process.

  • We Handle All Permit Applications:

    Rich by Design manages the entire permit process for your Etobicoke renovation. We prepare detailed drawings, submit applications to City of Toronto building departments, coordinate inspections, and ensure compliance with Ontario Building Code.

    Average Permit Timelines:

    • Minor interior renovations: 2-3 weeks

    • Minor interior renovations: 2-3 weeks

    • Major renovations or additions: 4-8 weeks

    • Expedited processing available for certain projects

    Permit Costs: Vary based on project scope and value. We provide accurate estimates during your consultation and include permit fees in your project quote.

The Way We Work

Our Renovation Process in Etobicoke

A streamlined approach that keeps your Etobicoke project on time, on budget, and hassle-free from start to finish.

  • Free In-Home Consultation

    We visit your Etobicoke property to understand your vision, assess the space, take measurements, and discuss your budget. For condos, we review building-specific requirements and renovation rules. This consultation is completely free with no obligation.

  • Detailed Quote & Design

    Within 3-5 business days, we provide a comprehensive written quote breaking down all costs: materials, labor, permits, and timelines. For complex projects, we create design drawings showing proposed layouts, elevations, and finishes. Condo projects include allowances for board approval fees and building-specific requirements.

  • Permits & Approvals

    We handle all paperwork: City of Toronto building permit applications, condo board submissions, structural engineering coordination, and utility notifications. You'll receive copies of all documentation and be informed when approvals are received.

  • Project Planning

    Before starting work, we confirm: material delivery schedules, trade team assignments, waste disposal plans, and daily schedules. For condos, we coordinate elevator bookings, parking passes, and building access with property management. You'll receive a detailed project schedule with milestone dates.

  • Renovation Execution

    Our in-house teams arrive on schedule and work efficiently while maintaining clean, safe work areas. Daily communication via text, email, or phone keeps you informed of progress. For condo projects, we protect common areas with floor coverings and elevator padding, respect noise bylaws, and maintain positive relationships with building staff and neighbors.

  • Final Walkthrough & Warranty

    Upon completion, we conduct a thorough walkthrough to ensure every detail meets your expectations. We address any final touch-ups immediately. All work is backed by our warranty covering workmanship and coordination with manufacturer warranties for materials and appliances.

Etobicoke's Character

What Makes Etobicoke Unique for Renovations

From Lake Shore condos to heritage homes, Etobicoke's diversity demands contractors who understand each neighborhood's unique character and requirements.

  • Waterfront Living & Condo Density

    Etobicoke's transformation along Lake Shore Boulevard has created one of Toronto's densest condo corridors. This concentration of high-rise living means specialized renovation expertise is essential. Unlike low-rise residential areas, waterfront condos require strict adherence to building policies, sound regulations, and complex logistics.
  • Established Residential Character

    Beyond the condos, Etobicoke's established neighborhoods preserve mid-century character while embracing modern updates. Homes in The Kingsway, Princess Gardens, and Markland Wood feature solid construction from the 1940s-1960s that benefit from thoughtful renovation rather than replacement. Respecting this architectural heritage while modernizing systems and layouts is our specialty.
  • Access to Toronto's Amenities with Suburban Feel

    Etobicoke residents enjoy proximity to downtown Toronto while maintaining a more relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere. This balance influences renovation priorities: creating functional family spaces, outdoor living areas, and home offices that support both urban professional lifestyles and suburban comfort.
  • Diverse Housing Stock

    From luxury waterfront towers to charming bungalows, Etobicoke's housing diversity requires contractors who adapt to different property types. Our experience spans condo renovations requiring board approvals to heritage home updates requiring sensitivity to original character.
  • Get Started with Your Etobicoke Renovation

    Ready to Transform Your Etobicoke Home or Condo?

    Rich by Design brings 15+ years of Etobicoke renovation expertise to every project. Our in-house teams, condo board approval specialists, and commitment to quality ensure your renovation exceeds expectations. Contact us today for your free consultation:

    Contact now
  • “I love love my new custom made kitchen!”

    Pamela Facey

Serving All Etobicoke Neighborhoods:

Mimico | Long Branch | Alderwood | Humber Bay Shores | The Kingsway | Islington Village | Princess Gardens | Markland Wood | New Toronto | Stonegate | Edenbridge | Westmount | Richview | Thistletown

Frequently Asked Questions: Etobicoke Renovations

Find answers to the most common questions about home renovations in Etobicoke. Learn about project timelines, costs, permits, and what to expect when working with local renovation contractors in your area.

Condo board approval timelines vary by building but typically range from 2-4 weeks. We’ve worked with hundreds of Etobicoke condo boards and know how to prepare complete applications that avoid delays. We submit all required documentation (floor plans, insurance certificates, WSIB clearance, contractor information, and project timelines) at once to expedite the process. Some buildings have monthly board meetings, so timing your application submission strategically can save weeks.

Yes, Rich by Design carries $5 million general liability insurance and full WSIB coverage, which exceeds most condo building requirements. We provide certified copies of both to your property management company as part of the approval process. Our insurance specifically covers high-rise construction work, elevator use, and common area protection.

Etobicoke renovation costs are similar to Toronto proper for most projects. Condo renovations may have slightly higher logistics costs due to elevator booking fees, parking passes, and building-specific requirements (typically $200-500 in additional fees). However, our in-house teams and established supplier relationships often result in better overall pricing than competitors using subcontractors. We provide transparent, detailed quotes specific to your Etobicoke property.

Most Etobicoke condo buildings restrict renovation work to weekdays between 8am-6pm, with no work on weekends or statutory holidays. These rules are strictly enforced to respect residents’ quality of life. We schedule projects accordingly and maximize efficiency during permitted hours. Some buildings allow quieter work (painting, trim installation) outside standard hours—we’ll verify your building’s specific rules.

We coordinate all deliveries with building management and loading dock schedules. Materials are delivered during designated times, immediately transported to your unit using booked elevators with protective padding, and staging areas are kept organized and safe. Our project managers communicate with building staff throughout the process to ensure smooth logistics and maintain positive relationships with your property management.

Load-bearing wall removal requires structural engineering, building permits, and precise execution. We hire licensed structural engineers to assess your home’s framing, design appropriate beam solutions (typically steel or engineered lumber), and prepare stamped drawings for permit submission. Once approved, our teams install temporary support walls, carefully remove the existing wall, install the engineered beam with proper bearing points, and complete finishing work. Timeline: 1-2 weeks for engineering and permits, 1 week for installation.

Yes, we provide complete basement waterproofing for Etobicoke homes. Our services include interior drainage systems, sump pump installation, foundation crack repair, and weeping tile replacement. Many older homes in Long Branch, Alderwood, and The Kingsway experience water issues due to aging foundations and proximity to Lake Ontario. We assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective solution.

Absolutely. Creating legal secondary suites in Etobicoke requires meeting specific City of Toronto requirements: separate entrance, minimum ceiling heights (6’5″ for most areas, 6’9″ for kitchens), egress windows, separate HVAC systems, and sound insulation. We handle complete basement apartment builds including permits, inspections, and final occupancy approvals. This work requires building permits and must meet fire code, plumbing code, and electrical code standards.

Sound transmission is a major concern in Etobicoke condos. We offer several solutions: acoustic underlayment for flooring (reduces impact noise by 60-70%), resilient channel drywall systems for walls and ceilings (breaks sound vibration paths), upgraded insulation in interior walls, and solid-core doors. For flooring, we always exceed minimum IIC (Impact Insulation Class) ratings required by your building. The investment in proper soundproofing protects your relationship with neighbors and prevents complaints to building management.

For projects not requiring permits, we typically start within 2-3 weeks of signed contracts. Permitted work depends on City of Toronto approval timelines (2-8 weeks). Condo projects require board approval first (2-4 weeks), then we can begin immediately after receiving written authorization from property management. We maintain multiple crews across the GTA, so unlike contractors relying on subcontractors, we control our scheduling and rarely experience delays.

Get in Touch

Why Etobicoke Homeowners Trust Rich by Design

For over 15 years, Rich by Design has been Etobicoke's go-to general contractor for homeowners and condo residents who demand quality, transparency, and expertise. We know Etobicoke, its neighborhoods, building codes, and what it takes to make your renovation seamless and stress-free.

Benefits We Bring

  • 15+ Years Serving Etobicoke - Deep local knowledge and established relationships
  • Condo Board Experts - Tens of successful approvals
  • Full Licensing & Insurance - $5M liability, WSIB compliant
  • Transparent Pricing - Detailed quotes with no hidden fees