Underpinning Permit
PermitsHub prepares and submits your underpinning permit application to Toronto Building for foundation work.

Scope of service.
Underpinning involves strengthening or deepening an existing foundation, typically to add basement space, repair settlement issues, or accommodate adjacent construction. In Toronto and the GTA, underpinning work requires a building permit because it affects the structural integrity of your home and may impact neighbouring properties. The permit process involves detailed structural drawings, soil reports, and engineered shoring plans. Toronto Building reviews these submissions to ensure the work meets Ontario Building Code requirements and won't destabilize your home or adjacent structures. Many underpinning projects also trigger requirements for Party Wall Agreements if work occurs near a property line. PermitsHub manages the technical documentation, coordinates with your structural engineer, and navigates the submission process so your underpinning project starts on solid regulatory ground.
- Basement lowering and benching to increase ceiling height
- Foundation deepening for additional living space
- Foundation repair due to settlement or structural damage
- Underpinning required for adjacent new construction
- Shoring and support system approvals
- Party Wall Notice coordination when work affects neighbours
Who needs this
You need an underpinning permit if you're lowering your basement floor, deepening your foundation, repairing foundation settlement, or performing foundation work that affects the structural support of your home or neighbouring properties.
Included as standard
- City-compliant permit drawings
- Zoning & by-law review
- Application submission
- Revision management
Four steps to an approved permit.
01
Consultation
Free scoping call to review your project, lot and goals. No pressure, no fee.
02
Drawings & Zoning
City-compliant permit drawings and full zoning compliance review.
03
Submission
Application filed with the City. We manage every revision round to closure.
04
Permit Approved
Stamped permit in hand. Ready to build with confidence.
Express City fast-lane available for eligible small residential projects - timeline depends on project type and City queue
Underpinning Permit - your questions
Get started
Ready to start your underpinning permit?
Free, no-pressure quote within one business day.
● Flat-rate quotes - no surprise fees
● Revisions included until approval
● Most enquiries responded to same day