Construction & Renovation Services in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
High-end renovation services for Forest Hill and Cedarvale's estate homes, specializing in large-scale renovations, pool installations, and premium finishes.
Neighbourhoods We Serve in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Forest Hill & Cedarvale Housing Stock & History
Forest Hill's housing stock reflects the premium building standards of the former village, with homes that are notably larger and more solidly constructed than typical Toronto residential properties of the same era. Lot sizes range from 50 to 100+ feet wide, and homes are typically set well back from the street with mature landscaping. Georgian Revival homes with symmetrical facades, stone detailing, and formal room proportions are a hallmark of the neighbourhood. Tudor Revival homes with steeply pitched roofs, decorative half-timbering, and leaded glass windows are equally common. A number of modernist homes from the 1950s and 1960s by notable architects add variety. In recent decades, some original homes have been demolished and replaced with custom contemporary residences of 5,000-8,000+ sq ft, reflecting the neighbourhood's ongoing appeal to affluent buyers.
Development History
Forest Hill has a distinctive history as an independent village that maintained its autonomy until 1967, making it one of the last communities to amalgamate with the City of Toronto. The Village of Forest Hill was incorporated in 1923 and quickly developed a reputation for exclusivity, establishing strict building standards and zoning controls that shaped its character as a community of large, well-built homes on generous lots. The village invested heavily in infrastructure, parks, and the public school system, creating an environment that attracted affluent families. Development in Forest Hill occurred primarily from the 1920s through the 1960s, with the most significant building period in the 1930s and 1940s. The architectural style reflects the taste of the era, with Georgian Revival, Tudor Revival, and Colonial-style homes built with premium materials including stone, brick, and slate. The homes tend to be larger than those in surrounding neighbourhoods, reflecting the village's generous minimum lot sizes and building standards. Cedarvale, to the west, shares Forest Hill's residential character and is defined by its proximity to the Cedarvale Ravine, a significant natural feature that runs through the neighbourhood. Upper Village, between Bathurst Street and Avenue Road south of Eglinton, bridges the gap between Forest Hill and The Annex with a mix of housing eras and styles. Today, Forest Hill remains one of Toronto's most desirable residential addresses, known for its tree-lined streets, excellent schools, and substantial estate homes.
Construction & Renovation Guide: Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Forest Hill and Cedarvale see some of Toronto's most ambitious residential renovation projects. The combination of large, well-built homes on generous lots, affluent homeowners, and the absence of formal Heritage Conservation District restrictions creates an environment where comprehensive renovations and significant additions are common. Projects routinely include complete kitchen and bathroom overhauls, basement underpinning and finishing, rear or second-storey additions, and major landscaping work including pool installations. While Forest Hill does not have a formal HCD, many individual properties have heritage designations, and the community has strong expectations for architectural quality. The Forest Hill Homeowners Association and the area's engaged residents pay attention to the character of new construction and renovations. Committee of Adjustment applications for variances are common and sometimes contested, particularly for projects that significantly increase a home's footprint or height. Pool installations are particularly popular in Forest Hill given the large lot sizes, but they require careful engineering for drainage design. The glacial till soil with clay lenses can create localized drainage challenges, and a pool that is not properly integrated into the site's overall drainage plan can cause problems for the home's foundation and neighbouring properties. Toronto's pool enclosure bylaw (minimum 1.2-metre fence with self-closing, self-latching gate) must be followed, and a building permit is required.
Common Renovation Projects
- Large-scale whole-home renovations with premium finishes
- Custom kitchen design with professional-grade appliances and stone countertops
- Spa-inspired bathroom renovations with heated floors and custom tile
- Basement underpinning, finishing, and conversion to entertainment or recreation space
- Rear and second-storey additions to expand living space
- In-ground pool installations with integrated landscape design
- Home automation and smart home system integration
- Energy efficiency upgrades including high-performance windows and HVAC
Typical Renovation Costs in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Estimates based on typical project scope. Actual costs vary by project specifics, material choices, and site conditions.
Unique Construction Challenges
- Large-scale project management across multiple trades and extended timelines
- Committee of Adjustment applications for variances frequently required for additions
- Pool installations requiring careful drainage engineering in glacial till with clay lenses
- Mature tree protection under Toronto's tree bylaws on large, well-treed lots
- Coordinating with Forest Hill's engaged community and maintaining neighbourhood character
- Individual heritage designations on some properties requiring Heritage Permit
- Cedarvale Ravine proximity requiring ravine protection permits for some properties
Foundation Types in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Forest Hill homes built from the 1920s through 1960s predominantly have poured concrete foundations, reflecting the building standards of the former village. Foundation walls are typically 10-12 inches thick with basement ceiling heights of 7-8 feet, better than many other Toronto neighbourhoods of the same era. Concrete block foundations are found in some homes from the 1940s-1950s. The higher construction standards of Forest Hill mean that foundations are generally in better condition than typical Toronto homes of equivalent age, though aging waterproofing, minor cracking, and efflorescence are still common concerns. Underpinning is less often needed for ceiling height but may be desired for premium basement finishes.
Common Foundation Issues
- Aging exterior waterproofing (50-80 years old) allowing moisture infiltration
- Hairline and minor settlement cracks
- Efflorescence on interior surfaces indicating moisture passage
- Window well drainage issues
- Concrete block deterioration at mortar joints in some mid-century homes
Environmental Considerations in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Asbestos
MEDIUM-HIGH RISKProbability in area homes: 60-85%
Homes built between the 1920s and 1980s in Forest Hill have a moderate to high probability of containing asbestos-containing materials, particularly in insulation, floor tiles, and mechanical system components. Homes built before 1930 may have less original asbestos but likely received asbestos-containing materials during mid-century renovations. Ontario Regulation 278/05 requires testing before renovation work. Contractors must follow O.Reg 278/05 protocols for identification, handling, and disposal.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
- Pipe and furnace insulation
- Vinyl floor tiles and mastic adhesive
- Vermiculite attic insulation
- Drywall joint compound
- Exterior stucco and parging
- Duct insulation and tape
Radon
MODERATE RISKHealth Canada data shows 16.2% of Toronto homes exceed the 200 Bq/m3 guideline. Forest Hill's glacial till soil can contain uranium-bearing minerals that produce radon. Individual home testing is recommended, particularly before finishing basements for regular use. The 2024 OBC requires radon rough-in for new construction, and installing a radon mitigation rough-in during basement renovation is a prudent low-cost precaution.
Soil & Drainage
Forest Hill and Cedarvale sit on glacial till deposited during the last ice age, consisting of a dense mix of clay, silt, sand, and gravel. This soil type provides good bearing capacity for foundations and is generally well-suited for construction. However, clay lenses (pockets of higher clay content) within the till can create localized drainage challenges, particularly relevant for pool installations and below-grade construction. Properties near the Cedarvale Ravine may encounter more variable soil conditions including sand and organic deposits associated with the ravine geology. The glacial till is less susceptible to the frost heave and seasonal volume changes that affect the clay soils south of Davenport.
Drainage considerations: While generally better-draining than southern Toronto's clay soils, Forest Hill properties require proper drainage planning, especially for pool installations and basement renovations. Pool drainage must be designed to prevent water from migrating toward the house foundation. Sump pumps are standard in most homes. Properties near the Cedarvale Ravine are subject to the Ravine and Natural Feature Protection Bylaw and may require enhanced drainage systems.
All environmental assessments should be conducted by qualified professionals before renovation work begins. We coordinate testing and abatement as part of our renovation process.
Property Values & Renovation ROI in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Forest Hill and Cedarvale are among Toronto's most valuable residential neighbourhoods, with prices reflecting the large lot sizes, generous homes, prestigious school catchments, and the neighbourhood's enduring reputation. Standard detached homes trade in the $2.5 million to $4.5 million range, while premium properties on the best streets and with larger lots can exceed $7 million. New-build custom homes on assembled or demolished sites have sold for $8-12 million. At these price points, renovations are expected to deliver exceptional quality, and the neighbourhood's discerning buyers scrutinize finishes, systems, and design carefully. Renovation investment in Forest Hill is less about maximizing percentage ROI and more about maintaining competitive position in the luxury resale market.
Market outlook: TRREB January 2026 data shows Toronto detached homes averaging $1,277,915, with Forest Hill properties consistently trading at 2-5 times the city detached average, supported by the area's schools, transit, and enduring prestige.
Building Permits & Regulations in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Forest Hill renovation projects require City of Toronto building permits for structural work, additions, plumbing, and HVAC modifications. Permit fees start at $214.79 minimum, with interior renovations at $4.93 per square metre. Pool installations require a separate building permit. All work must comply with the Ontario Building Code (OBC), 2024 edition effective January 2025. ESA notification is required before or within 48 hours of starting electrical work. Gas work requires TSSA-licensed contractors. While Forest Hill does not have a formal HCD, individually designated properties require Heritage Permit approval for exterior alterations.
Common Permits Required
- Building permit for structural changes, additions, and basement underpinning
- Building permit for in-ground pool installation
- ESA notification and inspection for electrical work
- Plumbing permit for fixture additions and relocations
- Mechanical permit for HVAC system changes or additions
- Committee of Adjustment application for zoning variances (coverage, setbacks, height)
- Tree removal permit for protected trees
- Heritage Permit for individually designated properties
Heritage Considerations
Forest Hill does not have a formal Heritage Conservation District, which provides more flexibility for renovations than neighbouring areas like The Annex or Rosedale. However, the former Village of Forest Hill's history as an independent municipality means many properties have individual heritage significance. Some properties are listed on the City of Toronto's Heritage Register or designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. Listed properties receive 60 days' notice before a demolition permit is issued, while designated properties require Heritage Permit approval for exterior alterations. Check the Heritage Register before planning demolition or major exterior changes.
Zoning Notes
Forest Hill is primarily zoned Residential Detached (RD) with generous lot coverage and height allowances reflecting the neighbourhood's original village planning standards. Secondary suites are permitted as-of-right city-wide. Garden suites adopted February 2022 are feasible on Forest Hill's larger lots. Multiplex zoning (2-4 units) since May 2023 applies but is less commonly pursued given the neighbourhood's single-family character. Committee of Adjustment applications are frequently required for additions that exceed zoning envelope limits, and community response to variance applications can be a factor in the approval process.
Applicable Codes & Standards
- Ontario Building Code (OBC) — Provincial building standards applicable to all renovation work
- ESA (Electrical Safety Authority) — All electrical work requires ESA permits and inspection
- TSSA — Gas and fuel-related work requires TSSA-licensed technicians
Key Renovation Considerations for Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Plan for extended project timelines on large-scale Forest Hill renovations. Comprehensive whole-home renovations of 4,000-6,000 sq ft homes typically take 8-14 months, and additions can extend timelines further. Establish a realistic schedule with your contractor and build in contingency time.
Committee of Adjustment applications for variances are common in Forest Hill for additions and significant renovations. The process takes 2-3 months and may involve objections from neighbours. Engage a planning consultant to prepare a strong application and consider pre-consultation with adjacent property owners.
Pool installations in Forest Hill require careful integration with the overall site drainage plan. The glacial till soil with clay lenses can create localized perched water tables, and a pool that disrupts natural drainage patterns can cause foundation problems for the house. Engage a pool contractor who works with a geotechnical engineer and landscape architect.
Mature trees on Forest Hill lots are often 60-100+ years old and are protected under Toronto's tree bylaws. Tree removal permits are required, and replacement planting may be mandated. Establish tree protection zones before construction begins, and consider adjusting the project design to preserve significant trees rather than removing them.
Forest Hill's 1930s-1950s homes were built to high standards but with the systems of their era. Full mechanical upgrades (electrical panel, plumbing, HVAC) should be considered as part of any major renovation to bring the home to current performance standards and avoid piecemeal upgrades later.
For properties near the Cedarvale Ravine, the City of Toronto's Ravine and Natural Feature Protection Bylaw applies. Work within the ravine setback zone requires a permit and may restrict the scope of additions, grading changes, and tree removal.
Frequently Asked Questions: Renovations in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
How much does a large-scale renovation cost in Forest Hill?
Comprehensive renovations of Forest Hill homes typically cost $400,000-$1.5 million depending on the home's size and the scope of work. A full renovation of a 4,000 sq ft home including kitchen ($50,000-$150,000), bathrooms ($25,000-$75,000 each), basement finishing ($55,000-$140,000), and mechanical upgrades ($30,000-$60,000) would total $350,000-$700,000 for interior work alone. Adding a rear or second-storey addition at $300-$500/sq ft and premium landscaping including a pool can push total project costs above $1 million. Forest Hill's premium market justifies the investment, as buyers expect turnkey quality at this price point.
Do I need heritage permits for renovating in Forest Hill?
Forest Hill does not have a formal Heritage Conservation District, so blanket heritage restrictions do not apply. However, individual properties may be listed on the City of Toronto's Heritage Register or designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act. If your property is designated, Heritage Permit approval is required for exterior alterations. If listed, a 60-day notice period applies before demolition permits are issued. Check the Heritage Register before planning your project. For most Forest Hill properties, standard City of Toronto building permits are sufficient.
What should I know about installing a pool in Forest Hill?
Pool installations in Forest Hill require a City of Toronto building permit and compliance with the pool enclosure bylaw (minimum 1.2-metre fence with self-closing, self-latching gate). The glacial till soil is generally suitable for pool excavation, but clay lenses can create drainage challenges. A geotechnical assessment is recommended before finalizing pool placement. Drainage must be designed so that pool backwash and deck drainage do not flow toward the house foundation or neighbouring properties. Tree removal permits may be needed if mature trees are in the way. Budget $80,000-$200,000 for a complete in-ground pool installation with landscaping.
Can I build an addition on my Forest Hill home?
Additions are common in Forest Hill, including rear extensions, second-storey additions, and new wings. Most additions require a Committee of Adjustment application for zoning variances related to lot coverage, setbacks, or height. The application process takes 2-3 months and involves notice to neighbours who may raise objections. Individually heritage-designated properties also require Heritage Permit approval. Construction costs for additions in Forest Hill typically range from $300-$500 per square foot depending on the complexity of the design and quality of finishes.
What are the best renovations for increasing home value in Forest Hill?
In Forest Hill's luxury market, the renovations with the strongest impact on resale value are high-end kitchen upgrades (professional-grade appliances, custom cabinetry, premium stone countertops), spa-quality primary bathroom renovations, finished basements with recreation and entertainment space, and curb appeal improvements including landscaping and exterior restoration. Buyers at this price point expect modern mechanical systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), so upgrading aging systems is essential even though it is less visible than cosmetic improvements. A well-designed in-ground pool can add value in Forest Hill where lot sizes support it.
About Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Forest Hill combines residential prestige with genuine neighbourhood charm. The Forest Hill Village shopping area along Spadina Road offers boutique shops, cafes, and services that serve as the community's gathering place. Upper Canada College and the Toronto French School anchor the educational landscape alongside highly regarded public schools. The Belt Line Trail and Cedarvale Park provide green space and recreation, while Eglinton West subway station and the future Eglinton Crosstown LRT provide transit connectivity. Residents take pride in the neighbourhood's well-maintained streetscape and expect renovation projects to uphold the area's high standards of quality and architectural harmony.
Our Services in Forest Hill & Cedarvale
Bathroom Renovations
Complete bathroom remodels from powder rooms to luxury ensuites
Kitchen Renovations
Custom kitchen remodels for modern living
Basement Renovations
Transform your unfinished basement into beautiful living space
Secondary Dwelling Units
Complete ADU and in-law suite construction
Legal Rental Units
Code-compliant basement apartments for rental income
General Contracting
Full-service residential construction and renovation
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