What We Take On
Our addition and extension projects start at $500,000. We handle second-story additions, major rear and side extensions, full carriage house builds, and multi-unit conversions. Structural work that requires engineering, permitting, and the same level of planning as new construction.
We do not build decks, bump out a bedroom wall, or add a mudroom. If the project does not involve new foundations, structural engineering, and a building permit with a full plan set, it is not the kind of work we do. Other contractors in Revelstoke handle that scale of work well.
What the 2025 Zoning Bylaw Makes Possible
Revelstoke adopted a completely rewritten zoning bylaw in April 2025, replacing rules that had been in place since 1984. The changes are significant for property owners:
- Up to 4 units per residential lot. The ceiling went from one house (maybe a suite) to four separate living spaces. Configurations depend on lot size and zone.
- ADUs and carriage houses explicitly permitted. Lane homes, garden suites, above-garage apartments. These were either prohibited or required variance applications under the old rules.
- Reduced parking requirements. The old minimums made multi-unit development on smaller lots nearly impossible. The new rules make density financially and physically feasible.
What this means for property owners:
- A carriage house with a rental suite generates income
- A lane home for aging parents keeps family close
- A secondary dwelling on a vacation property offsets your mortgage
- Multi-unit conversions create value from existing large homes
None of these were straightforward options before April 2025.
What $500K+ Addition Projects Look Like
Second-story additions
Adding a full floor to an existing home means the existing foundation and framing have to be reinforced to carry the new load, and the new roof has to be engineered for Revelstoke's snow load. The structural engineering on these projects is substantial, and the existing building has to be assessed before any design work starts.
Major rear and side extensions
Extending the footprint by several hundred square feet means new foundations below the frost line and new framing tied into the existing building. The connection point between old and new construction is the most technically demanding part of the job, and it is where most of the engineering time goes.
Carriage houses and ADUs
Under the new zoning, these are essentially small new-construction projects. Same engineering standards, same insulation requirements, and the same foundation depth as a full-size home. Construction complexity per square foot is actually higher, because full mechanical systems, a kitchen, a bathroom, and living space all have to fit into a compact footprint.
Multi-unit conversions
Taking an existing large home and converting it into multiple legal dwelling units under the new bylaw involves structural modifications for separate entrances, fire separation between units, independent mechanical systems, and bringing the entire building up to current code.
How Addition Projects Work
For projects at the $500K+ level, we use our integrated design process. One team runs design and construction together from the first concept through to completion, so budget and buildability are understood before the drawings are finalized.
Step 1: Property Assessment
What does your lot allow under the new 2025 bylaw? What can the existing structure support? What makes financial sense for your situation?
Step 2: Design and Engineering
Floor plans and elevations for the addition. Structural engineering for local load requirements. Energy modelling for Step Code compliance on new portions. Detailed connection design where new meets old. All permits through City of Revelstoke.
Step 3: Construction
Exterior work is phased into the April-to-October build season. Winter work is possible when a project requires it, but it is not the optimal window and can add cost for snow management, heating, and weather protection. One team manages structural, envelope, mechanical, and finishing throughout, with real-time project tracking through JobTread.
Workmanship on your addition, ADU, carriage house, or conversion is backed directly by Straight Up. The 2-5-10 year home warranty required for new home construction in British Columbia applies only to new homes as defined under the Homeowner Protection Act. Additions, ADUs, and carriage houses on an existing residential property are not classified as new homes and do not require 2-5-10 coverage. Any new products, appliances, and systems installed as part of the project carry their own manufacturer warranties, which we document and hand over at project completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really build up to 4 units on my residential lot now?
Under the April 2025 zoning bylaw, yes. The specific configurations depend on your lot size, zone, and existing structures. Not every lot can accommodate 4 units, but the ceiling increased dramatically. We can help you figure out what your specific lot allows.
Does my existing foundation support a second-story addition?
It depends on the original design and current condition. We bring in an engineer to evaluate before any design work begins. In many cases, the existing foundation can be reinforced. In some cases, it needs to be replaced. The assessment determines the path.
Do carriage houses need to meet the same building code as a full home?
In Revelstoke, yes. A carriage house or ADU needs the same snow load engineering, the same foundation depth below the frost line, and Step Code compliance. Smaller building, same technical requirements.
How long does a major addition take?
Typically 6 to 12 months depending on scope. A standalone carriage house is closer to 6 months. A second-story addition with foundation reinforcement is closer to 12. Exterior work is planned into the April-to-October window, with winter work possible but not preferred.
Can an addition generate rental income?
A carriage house, lane home, or secondary suite can be rented under Revelstoke's current regulations. Short-term rental rules are under active review, but long-term rental is straightforward. Many owners use additions to offset mortgage costs.
Do additions and ADUs come with a 2-5-10 home warranty?
No. The 2-5-10 year home warranty in British Columbia applies to new home construction, which is defined under the Homeowner Protection Act and administered by BC Housing. Additions, ADUs, and carriage houses built on an existing residential property are not required to carry 2-5-10 coverage. Workmanship on the project is backed directly by Straight Up, and new products and systems are covered by their respective manufacturer warranties.
Why is $500K the minimum?
At this scale, work involves new foundations, structural engineering, Step Code compliance, and full permitting. Same complexity as new construction. Our integrated design process is built for this level of work.
Client Testimonials
"We approached Straight Up Construction in 2008 with a substantial construction project for our hotel. It involved a large addition, and building a complete second floor. Our previous contractor was not capable and did not have the expertise required to handle a project of this scale."
— Hotel Owner, Gateway Inn
"We have worked with Straight Up on numerous projects over the years. On our last project they completed a huge indoor arena, that would be able to withstand the snow loads of Revelstoke BC."
— Property Owner, Airport Way Indoor Arena
"Nathan and his team at Straight Up Construction were incredible to work with! We are absolutely in love with our new home."
— Custom Home Client, First-time Build
