Design Development Associates

WHAT WE DO

Basement Permit to Build Services Across Ontario

DDA – Design Development Associates transforms underused basements into functional spaces, whether for personal use or legal second units. With 20+ years of expertise in Ontario's building codes and zoning, we offer end-to-end solutions that save time and ensure compliance.

Build & Construct

From Design to Completion

Once your permit is in hand, we shift gears to bring your basement vision to life. Our skilled project managers, licensed trades, and experienced designers handle every step of construction with precision and care.

Our Build Services Include:

Full basement renovations & legal unit conversions
Framing, drywall, insulation, flooring, lighting, and plumbing
Egress windows, separate entrances & soundproofing
Custom kitchenettes & bathrooms
Final inspection coordination

Whether it’s cozy and personal, or income-ready and code-compliant — we build it right, the first time.

Permits

From Paperwork to Approval

We simplify the complicated. Whether you're planning a finished basement for personal comfort or aiming to create a legal basement apartment for rental income, we prepare all necessary drawings, documents, and applications required for municipal approvals.

Our Permit Services Include:

Zoning & building code compliance analysis
As-built measurements & architectural drawings
Structural, mechanical & fire safety planning
3D visualizations for clarity & communication [Optional]
Submission to city for permit approval
Fast turnaround & full coordination with municipal officials

We don’t just fill out forms — we advocate for your project.

From permit to perfection — we handle it all, stress-free. • Your basement’s true potential? We help you unlock it. • Second suites made simple. Legal. Livable. Lucrative. • No hidden steps — just full-service design, permits, and build. • Book your free consultation — your dream basement awaits. •

Selection Studio

Design with Confidence

Selection Studio

Why guess, when you can design with clarity?

Welcome to our Selection Studio—a space where creativity meets precision. We believe that exceptional design begins with exceptional materials. That's why we handpick only the finest, premium-quality brands for our collection, ensuring every choice is a masterpiece. From textures to finishes, our studio provides expert guidance to help you craft spaces that perfectly embody your vision. Why guess, when you can design with clarity and confidence

Unlike typical permit designers, DDA offers you access to a dedicated Selection Studio, where you can:

See it. Feel it. Choose it — before we build it.
Visualize your layout in 3D if needed
Compare & feel finishes, cabinetry, and fixtures - in person
Choose kitchen and bathroom styles with expert guidance
See your basement before it's built

We don’t just fill out forms — we advocate for your project.

About DDA

Your trusted partner in bringing basements to life across Ontario.

At DDA, we believe a basement is more than just square footage — it's untapped potential, a future legal suite, a space for family, or a long-term investment. For over 20 years, we’ve been Ontario’s go-to team for basement permits and construction services — seamlessly guiding homeowners from concept to completion.

What sets up apart?

We’re not just permit designers — we’re an integrated team of architects, engineers, permit specialists, and builders, all under one collaborative roof. Our in-house Design Studio is where your vision comes alive. Here, you can explore finishes, cabinetry, fixtures, and layouts before a single tool is lifted — a luxury few others offer.

From navigating municipal zoning to designing elegant, functional layouts for personal use or a second legal dwelling unit, we handle every detail - ensuring compliance, comfort, and craftsmanship.

We know Ontario’s building codes inside and out. We speak the language of cities and homeowners alike. That’s why clients don’t just choose DDA — they trust us.

Our promise

We don’t just meet expectations — we raise the bar.
We don’t just build basements — we build possibilities.
Welcome to Permit to Build. The DDA Way.

Why Us

Why Choose DDA — And Why Others May Fall Short

At DDA, we excel in turning visions into reality with our seamless, compliance-focused solutions. While others may falter on crucial details or leave gaps in service, we ensure every step is handled with precision and expertise, saving you time and eliminating guesswork.

What We Offer at DDA

A-Z Basement Permit to Build Services — From drawings to approval, design to construction, we handle it all.

20+ Years of Local Expertise — We know Ontario building codes like second nature, because we’ve lived them.

In-House Selection Studio — Visualize and personalize your basement with 3D layouts [Optional], finishes, kitchens & bathrooms — all under one roof.

Dual Focus: Personal Use & Legal Dwelling Units — Whether it’s your dream rec room or an income suite, we’re ready.

Fixed Timelines. Real Support. No Hidden Costs.

Permit to Possession — the DDA Way.

What You Often Get Elsewhere

Many firms only provide design or permit drafting — you’re left to juggle consultants, contractors, and confusion.

Outdated templates or generic approaches can delay approvals or even lead to rejections.

Most permit designers don’t offer material consultations — you’re left to imagine and hope.

Some services aren’t familiar with the legal dwelling process or zoning requirements in Ontario municipalities.

Vague timelines, shifting budgets, and “surprise” fees can quickly turn into a homeowner’s nightmare.

Fragmented processes mean you’re the one holding it all together — often with no commitments or guarantees.

FAQs

Your Questions Matter

Everything you need to know, simplified for your convenience.

Yes. In Ontario, a basement permit is legally required when you’re planning to finish, renovate, or convert your basement—especially if you’re adding a Second Legal Dwelling Unit. It ensures your project meets Ontario Building Code (OBC), safety standards, fire separation, and zoning compliance.

You’ll likely need a permit if you plan to:

Finish an unfinished basement
Add a bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen
Create a second suite (for rental income)
Add or modify plumbing, insulation, or windows
Construct or relocate walls
Add a separate entrance

Approval timelines can vary by municipality. On average:

Basement for personal use: 1–2 weeks
Legal second unit: 3–5 weeks (may require zoning and fire code review)
At DDA, we streamline and manage the process with the city, reducing wait times wherever possible.

We’re more than permit experts—we’re a builder having a design service studio. You get

Personalized consultation
Cost effective solutions
See it. Feel it. Choose it — before we build it. Access to finishes, cabinetry & fixture options
Full design-to-build guidance under one roof
20+ years of experience in Ontario’s residential code compliance

A Second Legal Dwelling Unit is a self-contained rental space (often in a basement) with its own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and entrance. It must meet fire safety, egress, and parking requirements to be considered legal by Ontario standards.

Yes! That’s our specialty. DDA offers end-to-end solutions:

Design Studio to explore layouts and finishes
Permit Application preparation & submission
Construction services with trusted, licensed teams

Costs vary based on size, finishes, and complexity. We offer transparent estimates and free consultations to match your budget and vision.

It’s simple. Call us or book your free consultation online. We’ll assess your space, discuss your needs, and show you how your vision can become reality—permit to build, the DDA way.

Who we are