Converting a commercial unit into a home can be an opportunity, but it requires a licence and meeting requirements. We explain what to check before buying.
Buying & Selling · Updated October 2026 · 6 min read
Buying a commercial unit to convert into a home (loft) is appealing for its price, but the change of use is not always possible and requires processing. It is worth checking before signing.
Many "lofts" are sold as housing without legally being so. If the change of use is not authorised, you are left with premises you cannot register as a residence or finance as a home. That is why prior due diligence is key.
No. It depends on the urban planning, municipal rules, community bylaws and meeting the habitability conditions. It must be verified before buying.
It remains a commercial unit legally: you will not be able to use it as a home or finance it as such until the change of use is legalised, which is not always granted. It is worth checking beforehand.
The municipal planning must allow it, it must meet habitability conditions (floor area, ventilation, height), not be prohibited by the association's bylaws, and obtain a licence and change of use.
It can, if the bylaws prohibit it or require authorisation. Review the registered bylaws before buying premises to live in.
While it is classified as commercial premises, the bank finances it as such, on worse terms. For a residential mortgage the change of use must be legalised first.
We verify the legal feasibility of the change of use before you buy the premises.
