Completed exterior
A finished exterior view showing the overall look, proportions, and durability of the build.
Backyard suite pricing in HRM
Backyard suite pricing for Halifax, Dartmouth, and HRM
Homeowners usually want two things up front: a real starting price and a clear explanation of what can change it. Our standard single-level 640 sq ft backyard suite starts at $185,000 + HST and site work, and our pass-through billing model makes it easier to see how lot conditions, servicing, and design choices affect the final number.
Pass-through billing with a clearly defined builder fee
We separate actual supplier and trade costs from our builder fee so you can see what you are really paying for. Materials, trades, and suppliers are billed transparently, and our management fee is laid out up front. That means a cleaner budget conversation, fewer hidden markups, and better visibility as the project moves forward.
Final pricing still depends on the site, access, servicing, and scope. If you want location-specific context first, read our Halifax backyard suite guide or Dartmouth backyard suite guide.
Starting price and standard specification
Starting at $185,000 + HST & Site Work for our standard 640 sq ft single-level backyard suite. That 640 sq ft footprint matters because it is the maximum single-level footprint permitted within the HRM Regional Centre, which makes it a practical benchmark for many Halifax and Dartmouth properties.
The starting specification is built around a durable, efficient suite meant for everyday use. Site work, utility servicing, lot-specific foundation requirements, and upgrades beyond the standard build are additional.
- High-efficiency envelope with R-31 walls using R-24 batts plus 1.5-inch rigid foam (R-7.5), R-60 ceiling insulation, and R-20 floor insulation using 4-inch rigid foam
- Roll-in shower for easier access and long-term usability
- 10-foot ceilings for a more open interior feel
- Metal roof for durability and reduced maintenance
Final pricing still depends on the lot, utility connections, access, foundation needs, and any design upgrades beyond the standard specification.
Depending on the project and your eligibility, you may also be able to access up to $45,250 in grants and incentives to help offset costs. See our Grants page for current program details and eligibility information.
What the standard finish looks like
A starting price means more when you can see the level of finish behind it. These images show the layout, material quality, and overall standard the reference specification is built around.
Kitchen finish
A practical kitchen finish that reflects the everyday standard behind the reference price.
Living area
An open living space that shows how the 10-foot ceilings and layout make the suite feel larger.
Bedroom
A realistic look at the scale, natural light, and livability of the standard bedroom.
Bathroom finish
A finished bathroom showing the practical, accessibility-minded approach described above.
Full one-bedroom floor plan
A full layout view connecting the starting price to the actual room arrangement and usable square footage.
What transparent pricing looks like
Documented costs
Supplier invoices and major construction costs are visible, not buried inside a lump-sum allowance.
Defined builder fee
Our builder fee is separated from project costs so you can see how the budget is structured.
Clear checkpoints
You receive cost and progress updates at agreed milestones instead of guessing where things stand.
Want a real number for your property?
We can review your lot and walk through what would keep your project near the starting point, and what would push pricing higher in Halifax, Dartmouth, or elsewhere in HRM.