4 Easy & Affordable Steps to Adding Plumbing for an Income Suite
Whether they are friends or family, guests that decide to stay overnight will need a comfortable place to stay.
An in-law suite can be a separate structure next to your home or you may choose to convert a garage, basement or attic into a separate living space. If you are converting an unused room such as a basement or attic, you will need to consider the necessary plumbing additions that you’ll need to create the perfect space for your guests.
How to Plumb Your In-Law or Income Suite
Add A Bathroom
Make sure your in-law suite has at least one full bathroom to make it a comfortable home. Installing a new bathroom is not a DIY job, so you’ll need a professional to put in the new fixtures, including toilet,sink and shower or tub. There are many brands of water-saving fixtures that save money without sacrificing water pressure, so make sure you ask about your options! You will also want your plumber to make sure the drains work properlybefore anyone moves into your income suite.
Kitchen Appliances
Whether your in-law suite will have a full kitchen or a kitchenette it will need a sink. There are many reasonably priced options that provide great functionality and reduced water usage. If you use gas appliances, you’ll also need gas lines installedto serve the income suite’s kitchen.
Laundry Room
Unless you plan to use it as an AirBnB, your income suite will need laundry facilities. Not only will your in-laws or renters be able to do laundry at their convenience, another laundry room also increases the value of your home when it comes time to sell. This is especially true if you are building a separate structure to serve as your in-law suite, as it saves your family or renter from having to walk over to the main house just to run the washing machine.
Water Heaters
Unless your existing water heater is able to accommodate the additional plumbing fixtures in your in-law suite, you’ll want to add a water heater for the suite’s use. You plumber can help you decide which water heater option is best for your in-law suite; there are several types available on the market, including:
- Electric Water Heaters: Low installation cost with a long lifespan.
- Gas Water Heaters: Faster than electric with a lower utility cost.
- Tankless Water Heaters: Heats water only when needed, which saves money and energy.
If you are considering building an In-Law suite, and have any questions about the process, or appliances you’ll need to install, give us a call at any of our three locations. Our licensed plumbers are here to help!
