Fourplex & multi family framing in Toronto
CanaStruct Inc specializes in fourplex and multiplex framing for Toronto-area developers, investors, and homeowners building multi-unit residential properties. We frame triplexes, fourplexes, and larger multiplexes to code, with the structural discipline that complex, multi-family builds demand.
build@canastruct.ca
What Is Fourplex & Multiplex Framing?
Fourplex and multiplex framing refers to the structural framing of buildings containing multiple self-contained residential units — typically three to six units for the projects most common in the GTA. Framing a multiplex involves the same basic components as single-family framing (walls, floors, roofs) but adds a layer of complexity that requires specific knowledge and planning.
Key terms you'll encounter when researching multiplex construction:
Triplex: a residential building with three self-contained dwelling units, either stacked vertically or arranged side by side
Fourplex: a four-unit residential building; the most common multiplex format being developed in Toronto under current as-of-right zoning
Multiplex: a broader term for any residential building with multiple units, typically three to six in the GTA context
Multi-unit residential framing: the structural framing scope required to build or convert a property into multiple separate dwelling units, including fire-rated assemblies and sound separation systems
Fourplex/multiplex conversions: projects that transform an existing single-family or semi-detached home into a multi-unit property through structural modification and framing
Party wall / floor-ceiling assembly: the shared structural element between units that must meet fire-resistance and sound transmission requirements under the Ontario Building Code
Our Fourplex & Multiplex Framing Services
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New Fourplex Construction Framing
Building a new fourplex from the ground up requires complete structural framing from foundation sill to roof, including
- All floor systems
- Exterior interior bearing walls
- Fire-rated party walls between units
- Staircase framing for each unit
- Roof structureCanaStruct works directly from your architectural and structural engineer's drawings to deliver accurate, inspection-ready framing at every stage of the build.
Building a new fourplex in Toronto, Mississauga, or Markham? Contact CanaStruct for experienced multiplex framing from slab to roof.
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Triplex Framing — New Builds and Conversions
Triplex framing covers both new three-unit builds and the conversion of existing single-family homes into triplexes. Conversion projects are especially common in Toronto's established neighbourhoods like
- East York
- Etobicoke
- North York
- ScarboroughWhere homeowners are adding units to existing structures under as-of-right permissions. Conversion framing requires careful structural assessment, new fire-rated assemblies, and integration with existing construction.
Converting an existing home to a triplex? Talk to CanaStruct about triplex conversion framing that passes inspection.
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Multi-Unit Residential Framing — Full Scope
For projects beyond the fourplex, five and six-unit multiplexes or larger low-rise multi-family buildings, CanaStruct provides full structural framing services. We handle multi-storey wood framing, engineered floor systems, complex roof structures, and all required fire-rated assemblies under Part 3 or Part 9 of the Ontario Building Code, depending on building size and use.
Developing a multi-unit residential project? Request your multi-family framing estimate from CanaStruct.
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Fire-Rated Party Wall and Floor-Ceiling Framing
Every multiplex build requires fire-rated separations between units. These are not optional; they're mandatory under the Ontario Building Code and are inspected before drywall proceeds. CanaStruct installs the correct fire-rated wall and floor-ceiling assemblies for your building type, including sound-rated (STC-compliant) assemblies where required. We build to the tested assembly specification, not an approximation of it.
Building a multiplex with fire-rated separations? Get a free quote today!
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Multiplex Framing vs. Single-Family Framing
Fourplex and multiplex framing is not simply scaled-up single-family framing. The differences are significant, and choosing a framing contractor without multi-unit experience puts your project at risk.
Code complexity: Multi-unit residential buildings trigger different sections of the Ontario Building Code than single-family homes. Fire resistance ratings, sound transmission class requirements, means of egress, and suite separation details all increase in complexity. A framing contractor who only works on single-family homes may not understand what a multi-unit roughing inspection requires.
Structural complexity: Multi-storey multi-unit buildings involve
Engineered floor systems
Point loads from stacked walls
Complex beam and header schedules
Transfer structures when layouts shift between floors.
Schedule intensity: Multiplex builds involve more inspections, more trade coordination, and more interdependencies than a single-family home. Delays in framing cascade across the entire schedule. Professional multiplex framing contractors understand this — and build accordingly.
ROI: A well-framed fourplex in Toronto generates significant rental income and long-term asset value. According to recent market data, a purpose-built fourplex in Toronto can generate gross rental income of $120,000 to $200,000 annually, depending on unit size and neighbourhood. Structural errors that cause failed inspections, delays, or rework directly erode that return.
“Hiring experienced multiplex framing contractors is one of the highest-ROI decisions in a multi-unit project”
Our Multiplex Framing Process
Initial Consultation
We review your drawings, project goals, timeline, and any municipality-specific requirements. We identify the full framing scope — structural elements, fire-rated assemblies, unit layouts, and inspection milestones.
3. Detailed Estimate
You receive a written, line-item estimate covering all framing labour, materials, engineered products, and scope inclusions. For a project of this complexity, a clear estimate is non-negotiable.
5. Execution
Our framing crew builds to drawing specifications floor by floor, maintaining constant coordination with your project manager, GC, and other trades. We flag discrepancies between field conditions and drawings immediately — before they become expensive.
7. Project Completion
We walk the completed frame with you and your project team, confirm all inspection approvals, and hand off a fully framed structure ready for mechanical, electrical, and insulation.
2. Site Assessment
Our lead framing contractor visits the site to review foundation or existing structure conditions, access, staging, and any site-specific constraints that affect framing sequencing.
4. Planning and Material Procurement
We order all materials — lumber, engineered products, steel components, fasteners, and specialty assemblies — and schedule crew deployment to align with your permit and inspection schedule.
6. Quality Check
Before each inspection stage, our supervisor conducts a thorough structural walkthrough — verifying load paths, fire-rated assembly completeness, stair and egress compliance, and connection hardware. We present inspection-ready work, not work that needs correction.
Why Choose CanaStruct Inc for Fourplex & Multiplex Framing
Licensed and insured: CanaStruct carries full commercial general liability and WSIB coverage for all multi-unit framing work. Every project is led by a qualified supervisor with multi-unit experience.
Code compliance: We frame multi-unit residential buildings to Ontario Building Code requirements — Part 9 for most fourplexes and smaller multiplexes, and Part 3 where applicable. Our crews know the difference between a single-family and multi-unit inspection, and we build to the higher standard every time.
Experienced team: Our framing contractors have worked on multi-unit residential projects across Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, and throughout the GTA. We understand the structural complexity, the inspection sequence, and the coordination demands of a multi-family build.
Quality standards: We read and execute to engineering drawings. We don't improvise structural details. Every fire-rated assembly is built to the tested specification. Every beam pocket, post, and connection point matches the engineer's intent.
Timelines: Multi-unit projects live and die by schedule. We commit to framing timelines that align with your permit milestones, inspection windows, and trade sequencing — and we hit them.
Transparency: You receive detailed, line-item estimates before work begins — covering all framing labour, materials, and scope. No lump sums on a project of this complexity.
Local credibility: We know the Toronto multiplex landscape — the as-of-right zoning rules, the specific inspection standards across different GTA municipalities, and the site conditions common to Toronto's established neighbourhoods. That local knowledge shortens your project timeline and reduces risk.
Service Areas we Serve
CanaStruct Inc provides fourplex and multiplex framing services throughout Toronto and the surrounding GTA. Our multiplex framing contractors are available for new builds, triplex and fourplex conversions, and multi-unit residential projects of all scales across the region. We currently serve:
Toronto (all commercial and industrial zones)
East York
Etobicoke
North York
Scarborough
Richmond Hill
Markham
Caledon
Mississauga
Oakville
Based outside these areas? Contact us — we evaluate all multi-unit framing projects and can often accommodate locations beyond our primary service zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fourplex?
A fourplex is a residential building containing four self-contained dwelling units under one roof. Units may be stacked vertically (most common in Toronto), arranged side by side, or a combination. Each unit has its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living space. A fourplex is legally classified as a residential building under the Ontario Building Code, not a commercial property.
Is a fourplex considered commercial?
No. In Ontario, a fourplex is classified as a residential building, not a commercial one. Under the Ontario Building Code, residential buildings with four units or fewer typically fall under Part 9 (housing and small buildings), which is the same code section that governs single-family homes. Financing, insurance, and taxation treatment differ between residential and commercial properties, and a fourplex is generally treated as a residential investment property.
Is a fourplex considered a single-family home?
No. A fourplex is a multi-unit residential building, distinct from a single-family home. It contains multiple self-contained dwelling units, each with its own kitchen and bathroom. Single-family homes have one dwelling unit. The distinction matters for building permit requirements, zoning compliance, financing eligibility, and building code applicability.
Can you build a fourplex anywhere in Toronto?
As of 2023, Toronto's as-of-right zoning allows fourplexes on most residential lots across the city, including areas previously zoned exclusively for single-family and semi-detached homes. This means most homeowners and developers can build a fourplex without seeking a zoning variance or minor variance. However, lot size, setbacks, height limits, and parking requirements still apply. A qualified architect and a building permit application are required before construction begins.
How much does it cost to build a fourplex in Toronto?
The cost to build a fourplex in Toronto varies significantly based on lot conditions, size of the building, design complexity, finishes, and site-specific factors. As a general benchmark, all-in construction costs for a purpose-built fourplex in Toronto typically range from $600,000 to over $1,200,000 depending on scope. Framing is one component of that total, typically $40,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the size and structural complexity of the build. CanaStruct provides detailed framing estimates as part of your project budget planning.
How long does it take to build a fourplex?
A typical new fourplex build in Toronto takes 12 to 18 months from permit approval to occupancy, depending on design complexity, permit processing times, and construction sequencing. The framing stage alone typically takes four to eight weeks for a four-unit build, depending on the size and layout. Conversion projects (turning an existing home into a fourplex) may have shorter framing timelines but involve additional structural complexity.
What is involved in fourplex or multiplex conversions?
Multiplex conversions involve modifying an existing residential building to create additional self-contained units. This typically includes structural reframing to create suite separations, new fire-rated floor-ceiling and wall assemblies between units, new staircase framing for separate egress, and framing for new kitchens and bathrooms in the added units. Conversion framing requires careful assessment of the existing structure before a single stud is changed.
What makes multiplex framing contractors different from regular framing companies?
Multiplex framing requires knowledge and experience that goes beyond standard residential framing. It involves complex fire-rated and acoustic assemblies, multi-storey structural systems, engineered product installation, multi-stage inspections, and tight coordination with multiple trades on compressed timelines. Not all framing companies have this experience. CanaStruct has worked on multi-unit residential projects across the GTA and understands the technical and regulatory demands specific to multi-family construction.