Construction & Renovation Services in The Junction & Junction Triangle
Renovation specialists for The Junction's Victorian and Edwardian homes, one of Toronto's fastest-gentrifying neighbourhoods.
Neighbourhoods We Serve in The Junction & Junction Triangle
The Junction & Junction Triangle Housing Stock & History
The Junction is dominated by narrow semi-detached Victorian and Edwardian homes, typically 14 to 16 feet wide, with brick exteriors, shared party walls, and small rear yards. Bay-and-gable homes are common along the main streets. Many homes have been extended at the rear over the decades. The Junction Triangle has a more eclectic mix, including converted industrial spaces and newer infill. Runnymede features slightly larger detached and semi-detached homes from the 1920s through 1940s. Laneway access is available on many properties, creating potential for garden suites.
Development History
The Junction's history is inseparable from its industrial past and its famous prohibition era. The area developed rapidly in the late 1800s as the intersection of multiple railway lines attracted stockyards, factories, and the workers who staffed them. The Town of West Toronto Junction was incorporated in 1884 and briefly thrived as an independent municipality before debt from railway infrastructure forced annexation by Toronto in 1909. A local prohibition on alcohol sales, enacted in 1904, remained in effect until 2000, creating a 96-year dry spell that profoundly shaped the neighbourhood's commercial character. The housing stock reflects the area's working-class origins. Dundas Street West is lined with narrow semi-detached Victorian and Edwardian homes, many of which were built as worker housing between 1890 and 1920. The Junction Triangle, formed by the rail corridors of the CP, CN, and GO Transit lines, developed slightly later with a mix of small houses and industrial buildings. Runnymede and Lambton, further west, feature slightly later construction from the 1920s through 1940s with more generous lot sizes. Since the early 2000s, The Junction has experienced dramatic gentrification. The end of prohibition in 2000 catalyzed a wave of new restaurants and bars along Dundas West. Artists and young professionals were drawn by relatively affordable Victorian homes, and the neighbourhood's gritty industrial character transformed into one of Toronto's most vibrant cultural strips. Today, The Junction blends restored Victorian streetscapes with contemporary design, and renovation activity is intense as homeowners invest in updating narrow semi-detached homes for modern living.
Construction & Renovation Guide: The Junction & Junction Triangle
Renovating in The Junction presents the distinctive challenge of working with narrow, semi-detached Victorian homes that share party walls with neighbours. Most homes are just 14 to 16 feet wide, which means every square foot of space must be carefully planned. Party wall construction requires particular expertise: shared walls must maintain fire separation, and any structural modifications on one side must be engineered to avoid affecting the adjoining property. The area's industrial past means that some properties, particularly in the Junction Triangle, may sit on land with a history of industrial use. Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments may be required for properties with known or suspected contamination, especially if excavation or development is planned. Record of Site Condition requirements under Ontario Regulation 153/04 apply when changing land use from industrial to residential. Despite these challenges, The Junction's housing stock offers excellent renovation potential. Rear additions are the most common way to add space to narrow semi-detached homes, and many properties have laneway access suitable for garden suites under Toronto's 2022 bylaw. Basement conversions to secondary suites are popular given the proximity to transit and strong rental demand from the neighbourhood's young demographic.
Common Renovation Projects
- Rear additions on narrow semi-detached homes
- Kitchen and living room open-concept conversions
- Basement secondary suite conversions
- Full gut renovations of Victorian worker housing
- Party wall fire separation upgrades
- Laneway suite / garden suite construction
- Third-storey additions on semi-detached homes
Typical Renovation Costs in The Junction & Junction Triangle
Estimates based on typical project scope. Actual costs vary by project specifics, material choices, and site conditions.
Unique Construction Challenges
- Shared party walls between semi-detached homes require specialized structural engineering and fire separation detailing
- Extremely narrow lots (14-16 feet wide) severely constrain side access for equipment and material delivery
- Former industrial land in Junction Triangle may require Environmental Site Assessments and remediation before development
- Older homes may have brick foundations that have deteriorated and require underpinning or structural repair
- Railway corridor proximity creates vibration concerns for some properties during construction
- Street parking permits and traffic management needed for construction in dense residential areas
- Heritage character of Victorian streetscape may face community opposition to unsympathetic modern additions
Foundation Types in The Junction & Junction Triangle
Victorian-era homes in The Junction typically sit on brick or rubble stone foundations, which are now 100 to 130 years old. These foundations often show signs of deterioration including mortar loss, brick spalling, and water infiltration. Homes from the 1920s onward more commonly have concrete block foundations. Basement ceiling heights in Victorian homes are frequently very low, sometimes only 5 feet 6 inches, making underpinning a near-universal requirement for basement finishing.
Common Foundation Issues
- Deteriorating brick and mortar in Victorian-era foundations
- Very low basement ceiling heights (under 6 feet) in worker housing
- Water infiltration through aging rubble stone walls
- Settlement and cracking in homes over 100 years old
- Party wall foundation connections requiring coordinated structural work
- Absent or failed exterior waterproofing
Environmental Considerations in The Junction & Junction Triangle
Asbestos
HIGH RISKProbability in area homes: 80-95% in pre-1980 homes
Nearly all homes in The Junction predate 1940, making asbestos-containing materials almost certain. Ontario Regulation 278/05 requires a designated substance survey before any renovation or demolition of buildings constructed before 1980. The compact size of Junction homes means disturbing asbestos is nearly unavoidable during gut renovations. Common materials found include original pipe insulation wrapping around cast iron heating pipes, 9-inch vinyl floor tiles (and their black adhesive), plaster wall and ceiling finishes, vermiculite attic insulation, and exterior stucco.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
- Cast iron pipe insulation wrapping
- 9-inch vinyl floor tiles and black mastic
- Plaster walls and ceilings
- Vermiculite attic insulation
- Exterior stucco and parging
- Window caulking and glazing compounds
- Old electrical panel backing
Radon
MODERATE RISKHealth Canada data shows 16.2% of Toronto homes exceed the 200 Bq/m3 guideline level. The Junction's Victorian homes, many with rubble stone or deteriorating brick foundations, may have more pathways for radon entry than newer construction. The clay soils in this area can trap radon gas beneath foundations. Any basement renovation should include radon testing and consideration of a sub-slab depressurization system, which costs relatively little to install during construction. Long-term testing over 90 days in the heating season is recommended.
Soil & Drainage
The Junction sits primarily on clay deposits overlying glacial till. The clay soil is expansive, meaning it swells when wet and shrinks when dry, which can contribute to foundation movement in older homes. The Junction Triangle area, with its history of industrial use, may have fill material of unknown composition overlying the native clay. Phase II Environmental Site Assessments may identify soil contamination on properties with historical industrial use.
Drainage considerations: Clay soils drain slowly, and many Victorian homes in The Junction lack modern drainage systems. Interior weeping tile, sump pumps, and exterior waterproofing should be evaluated during any basement renovation. Properties downslope from the rail corridors may experience water run-off issues. Combined sewer areas are common in older parts of The Junction, making backwater valve installation essential for basement protection.
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 The Junction & Junction Triangle
The Junction has experienced some of the strongest price appreciation in Toronto West over the past decade. Semi-detached homes that sold for $350,000 in 2010 now trade for $900,000 to $1,200,000. Fully renovated detached homes in Runnymede can exceed $1,500,000. The neighbourhood's cultural cachet, transit access, and walkability drive sustained demand. Garden suites on properties with laneway access represent a significant emerging opportunity for adding property value and rental income.
Market outlook: Continued strong appreciation driven by gentrification momentum, transit access, and limited supply. The Junction is increasingly compared to established premium west-end neighbourhoods, suggesting further upside. Garden suite permissions add development potential to many lots.
Building Permits & Regulations in The Junction & Junction Triangle
Building permits from the City of Toronto are required for all structural work, plumbing modifications, and mechanical changes. The Ontario Building Code (OBC), updated effective January 2025, sets all construction standards. Electrical permits are obtained through the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), and gas work requires TSSA-licensed technicians. Given the semi-detached nature of most Junction homes, building permit applications frequently require party wall agreements and adjacent property notification. The minimum building permit fee is $214.79, with interior renovations assessed at $4.93 per square metre.
Common Permits Required
- Building permit for structural work, including party wall modifications
- Building permit for rear additions or third-storey additions
- Building permit for basement finishing or secondary suite creation
- ESA electrical permit for panel upgrades and rewiring
- Plumbing permit for fixture and drain modifications
- Garden suite permit for laneway suite construction
- Committee of Adjustment approval for variances from zoning setbacks on narrow lots
Heritage Considerations
The Junction Phase 1 Heritage Conservation District study is in progress, covering the commercial core along Dundas Street West. The Weston Area Phase I HCD is nearby. While the study is underway, properties within the study area may face additional scrutiny for demolition or significant exterior alterations. Many Victorian homes along Dundas West contribute to the neighbourhood's heritage streetscape, and community expectation strongly favours preservation of these facades even when interiors are fully modernized.
Zoning Notes
Secondary suites are permitted city-wide. Garden suites have been permitted since February 2022 for properties with laneway access, and many Junction properties qualify. Multiplex conversions of up to 4 units have been allowed on most residential lots since May 2023, making the Junction's larger homes candidates for multi-unit conversion. Narrow lot widths often require Committee of Adjustment minor variances for additions that cannot meet standard side-yard setbacks.
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
- Ontario Heritage Act — Heritage properties may require additional approvals
Key Renovation Considerations for The Junction & Junction Triangle
Engage a structural engineer experienced with party wall construction before planning any modifications to shared walls. Party walls must maintain fire separation ratings, and structural changes on one side can affect the neighbouring property's structural integrity.
Commission a designated substance survey (Ontario Regulation 278/05) before any demolition work. Victorian homes in The Junction almost certainly contain asbestos, lead paint, and potentially other designated substances.
For properties in the Junction Triangle with a history of industrial use, consider a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment before planning excavation or basement development. Soil contamination may require remediation.
Plan for very tight site access. Narrow lots and shared driveways mean materials may need to be moved manually through the house or hoisted over the building. Budget additional labour costs accordingly.
Investigate basement ceiling heights before planning secondary suites. Most Victorian homes in The Junction have basements well under the 6 foot 5 inch OBC minimum, requiring underpinning at significant cost.
Check laneway access for garden suite potential. Many Junction lots back onto laneways, and the addition of a garden suite can add $200,000-$400,000 in property value while generating rental income.
Factor in permit timelines for additions on semi-detached homes. Party wall agreements, zoning variances, and heritage review (if applicable) can add 3 to 6 months to the planning phase.
Frequently Asked Questions: Renovations in The Junction & Junction Triangle
Can I renovate my semi-detached home in The Junction without affecting my neighbour's side?
Yes, but it requires careful engineering and construction practice. The party wall shared between semi-detached homes is a structural and fire-rated assembly that must be maintained throughout your renovation. A structural engineer should assess any proposed changes to ensure they do not affect the adjoining property. You should notify your neighbour early in the process, as party wall agreements may be required for building permit approval. Experienced contractors working in The Junction understand the specific techniques needed for party wall construction, including maintaining fire separation and minimizing vibration during demolition.
Is there contaminated soil in The Junction Triangle area?
The Junction Triangle has a well-documented industrial history, including former factories, railyards, and commercial operations that may have left contamination in the soil. Not all properties are affected, but if you are planning excavation, basement development, or a change of land use, a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is strongly recommended. If contamination is identified, a Phase II assessment and potentially a Record of Site Condition under Ontario Regulation 153/04 may be required before development can proceed. Your contractor or environmental consultant can advise on the specific requirements for your property.
How much does a rear addition cost on a semi-detached home in The Junction?
Rear additions on semi-detached homes in The Junction typically cost between $250 and $400 per square foot, depending on the scope and finishes. A modest single-storey rear kitchen extension of 150 square feet might cost $45,000 to $60,000, while a two-storey rear addition of 400 square feet could run $100,000 to $160,000. Costs are influenced by foundation requirements, party wall considerations, and the complexity of tying the addition into the existing structure. Budget an additional 15-20% for permit fees, engineering, and contingency.
Can I build a laneway suite behind my Junction home?
If your property has frontage on a public laneway at the rear, you likely qualify to build a garden suite under Toronto's 2022 bylaw. Garden suites can be up to 4 metres tall (one storey) or up to the height of the main house on the lot, with a maximum footprint determined by lot coverage limits. Many Junction properties back onto laneways, making them excellent candidates. A garden suite typically costs $250,000 to $450,000 to build and can generate significant rental income given the neighbourhood's strong rental demand. Building permits, site plan approval, and utility connections are required.
What heritage restrictions apply to renovations in The Junction?
The Junction Phase 1 Heritage Conservation District study is currently in progress, focusing on the commercial area along Dundas Street West. While the study is underway, demolition permits and significant exterior alteration proposals may be subject to Heritage Planning review. For residential properties, interior renovations are generally unrestricted by heritage requirements. However, the community strongly values the Victorian streetscape character, and unsympathetic exterior modifications may face neighbourhood opposition. If your property is individually listed on the City of Toronto Heritage Register, you will need Heritage Planning approval for exterior changes. Check the register at toronto.ca before beginning design work.
About The Junction & Junction Triangle
The Junction has transformed from a gritty industrial neighbourhood into one of Toronto's most vibrant cultural hubs. Dundas Street West is packed with independent restaurants, craft breweries, galleries, and boutiques that give the neighbourhood its distinctive character. The area is well served by transit with the UP Express at Bloor-Dundas West station and frequent streetcar and bus service. Homeowners in The Junction embrace the neighbourhood's creative energy while investing in thoughtful renovations that honour the Victorian and Edwardian architecture that defines its streetscape.
Our Services in The Junction & Junction Triangle
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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