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Duplex Conversions
Converting a “single-family residence” to a “duplex” is a great investment opportunity. This pamphlet will give you a general idea of what property would qualify and what it takes to convert a “single-family residence” to a “duplex.” Topics discussed include lot requirements and some of the building code requirements.
Zoning Requirements:
2 parking spaces for each dwelling behind front yard setback.
Duplexes are allowed only in the following zones:
LDR 2
Minimum lot width is 60 feet.
Minimum lot depth is 60 feet
Minimum lot area is 10,000 sq.ft.
LDR 3
Minimum lot width is 50 feet.
Minimum lot depth is 60 feet.
Minimum lot area is 8,000 sq.ft.
MDR1 & MDR2
Minimum Lot Width is 60 Feet
Minimum Lot Depth is 60 feet
Minimum Lot Area is 6,000 square feet
STRONGLY SUGGESTED: Prior to purchasing the property, schedule a walk-through with an inspector, because a building permit is required after the purchase of the household to convert the property to a duplex.
Building Requirements:
Separate entrances for each dwelling unit needs to have a 36" x 6'8" door to the public way.
A 6'8” finishing height on the stairs is required. Stairs are required to be lit. Handrails are installed with 4 or more continuous stairs. (Finishing height is from the nose of the step to the finished ceiling.)
All life safety features must be up-to-date.
Egress windows in sleeping rooms need to have 5.7 square feet of openable space.
Opening windows must have a maximum sill height of 44" above the floor level.
Entrance stairs from the outside are code-compliant.
The minimum hallway width is 36" and height is 6'8".
All livable space has a 7 ft. minimum ceiling height.
Building changes require that you apply for a building permit.
Electrical Requirements:
Separate meter is required for each dwelling unit.
A bathroom fan or window must be provided.
Outlets are GFCI-protected in the bathroom, kitchen countertop, and outside areas.
Electrical wiring is protected with covers installed; no cords for permanent wiring.
A licensed electrician (who is not the owner) is required to complete electrical work on a rental property.
Mechanical Requirements:
Separate conditioned air ducting for each dwelling unit (separate furnace). Units cannot share air.
Gas lines must not run through Building A to service Building B. A licensed mechanical contractor is required to install gas lines.
A licensed mechanical contractor is required, that is not the owner, to do the work when working on a rental property.
Plumbing Requirements:
Separate shut-off of water supply for each dwelling unit is required.
A licensed plumber is required, that is not the owner, to do the work when working on a rental property.
Fire Requirements:
Fire separation between units.
Smoke detectors are installed and functional in halls and bedrooms to meet current code.
CO detectors are installed and functional in hallways.
In plain sight in the kitchen, a fire extinguisher (class 2A10BC minimum) is installed and functional.