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Laneway Homes

Turn your backyard into a multi-generational home, sale, or rental income with expert guidance every step of the way.

Navigating laneway permits and costs feels overwhelming. Homeowners fear surprise expenses and delays from the wrong builder. At Theorem, you work directly with leadership—not sales staff—and receive transparent pricing from day one. We handle complex permits and construction so you focus on income potential, not stress.

Why Metro Vancouver homeowners choose Theorem for laneway construction..

Most homeowners ask: "What will this cost, and how quickly can I start?"

The challenge is navigating Metro Vancouver's zoning and permits that delay projects for months.

Theorem solves this for laneway and multiplex homeowners. While larger builders assign junior coordinators, you work directly with our leadership from site evaluation through completion.

We eliminate surprise costs, permit delays, and poor communication. You receive detailed cost breakdowns upfront, regular updates, and direct access to decision-makers, not call centres.

Whether building a laneway for rental income, redeveloping into a multiplex for multi-generational living, or planning retirement revenue, we handle Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and New Westminster permits while you focus on outcomes: quality homes generating income and increased property value.

Laneways
Complete Process

Everything we handle so your laneway project stays on track and on budget.

Site Evaluation & Feasibility

We assess your property's zoning requirements, lot configuration, and utility access to determine build potential and realistic costs BEFORE you commit. This includes reviewing density allowances and municipal-specific requirements that affect your project timeline and budget.

Design & Permitting

Our team coordinates architects, engineers, and city submissions to secure building permits efficiently. We handle Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, and New Westminster permit processes while providing regular updates on approval status and any municipal feedback requiring design adjustments.

Budget Development & Pricing

After site evaluation provides your initial estimate, we deliver your detailed construction budget once architectural plans are complete. This comprehensive breakdown includes all hard costs, permit fees, and contingencies, giving you transparent pricing before construction begins. No surprises, no hidden fees.

Construction Management

You receive access to our project management software with live budget tracking, daily progress photos, and milestone updates. Monthly formal meetings keep you informed without overwhelming you with construction details, while we coordinate all trades and inspections.

Final Completion & Occupancy

We manage final inspections, occupancy permits, and warranty documentation to deliver a move-in ready laneway home. This includes coordinating utility connections and providing you with all documentation needed for rental or family occupancy.

Ready to Start?

Get clear answers on costs, timelines, and potential for your property.

Schedule a free site evaluation with our leadership team. We'll assess your lot's laneway potential, provide realistic cost estimates, and explain the permit process, no sales pressure, just transparent information to help you make an informed decision.

Book Site Evaluation
Clear Timeline

Your laneway project from start to finish:
14-17 months total.

From your initial call to rental-ready occupancy, laneway projects typically take 14-17 months. Municipal permitting varies by city, Vancouver averages 6 months while Burnaby often approves faster. Construction runs 8 months regardless of location.

Site Evaluation & Design

3 months

Initial feasibility assessment of your lot, zoning review, architectural plans, and interior design selections with transparent cost estimates.

Municipal Permits

As little as 4 months

Building permit applications, city reviews, and approval processes. Timelines vary by municipality, Vancouver typically takes longer than Burnaby or New Westminster.

Construction Phase

8 months

Foundation through final finishes with coordinated trades, regular inspections, and milestone meetings to track progress and budget.

Final Occupancy

1 month

Final inspections, utility connections, occupancy permits, and handover documentation ready for rental listing or family use.

Warranty

Coverage

2 years materials and labor, 5 years building envelope, 10 years structural defects with responsive service

FAQ: Laneway Homes for Metro Vancouver Homeowners