Licensed residential builder
Duplex and multiplex builder in Vancouver
Vancouver’s multiplex rules let many single-family lots hold several homes. We tell you what your lot allows, then design, permit and build it with one team.
More homes on one Vancouver lot
Vancouver now allows multiplexes on most lots that used to be limited to a house, a suite and a laneway home. Depending on lot size and location, that can mean a duplex, a triplex, a fourplex or up to six homes, each with its own entrance. It’s one of the best ways for families to build together, or for owners to build homes to rent or sell.
Duplex
Two side-by-side or up-and-down homes, often each with a suite. A good fit for two families or for selling one unit to fund the build.
Triplex and fourplex
Three or four homes on a standard lot, the most common multiplex we’re asked about.
Up to six homes
On larger lots, more units can be possible. We check your lot size, frontage and the current bylaw first.
What decides how many homes you can build
The answer is different for every address. The main factors are:
Lot size and frontage
Bigger and wider lots allow more units and more floor area under Vancouver’s R1-1 zoning.
Trees, lane and servicing
Protected trees, lane access and the cost of new water, sewer and power connections can change the plan and the budget.
Rental or ownership
Whether units will be strata-titled to sell or kept as rentals can affect what’s allowed and how it’s financed.
Energy and building code
Multiplexes must meet the BC Building Code and Vancouver’s energy requirements, which shape the design from day one.
Our Vancouver work
We build in Vancouver every year, often putting a new house, a legal suite and a laneway home on one lot as a single project.
East 49th Avenue
A main house with a legal suite plus a separate laneway house.
East 64th Avenue
A new main house with a legal suite and a laneway house.
Why owners choose Xerox Builders
Licensed and warrantied
A BC Housing licensed residential builder. New homes come with 2-5-10 home warranty coverage.
Permits handled
We coordinate designers, engineers, arborists and the City of Vancouver permit process. Permit support →
One team
Feasibility, design, permits, construction and handover, close by from our Burnaby head office.
Vancouver neighbourhoods we serve
Vancouver duplex and multiplex questions
How many homes can I build on my Vancouver lot?
Many Vancouver lots can now hold a duplex or a multiplex of three to six homes, depending mainly on lot size and frontage. Send us your address and we’ll check what applies to your lot.
Can I sell some of the units?
Multiplex units can often be strata-titled and sold, which many owners use to pay for the build. We’ll explain the options and costs for your lot.
Can I add a laneway house instead?
Yes, if a multiplex isn’t the right fit, a house with a suite and a laneway home is still a common choice. See our laneway house page.
How long does a multiplex take?
Permits come first and vary by project. Construction usually takes about a year or more depending on size. We give you a realistic schedule after reviewing your lot.
We also build in: Laneway homes, duplexes & multiplexes in Surrey · Laneway homes in Burnaby · Duplexes & multiplexes in Burnaby · Multiplexes in Coquitlam
Related reading: Duplex vs. multiplex: which makes sense for your lot?
Planning a duplex or multiplex in Vancouver?
Send us your address. We’ll tell you what your lot allows, free of charge.