Norwich approves new demolition agreement policy

Luke Edwards, Post Contributor

Norwich has updated its demolition policy to make it easier for those building a new home on their existing property.

Existing policy previously stated properties could only have two dwelling units if one is established as a garden suite or accessory dwelling. A report to councillors at the April 14 meeting said this made things difficult for people who wanted to stay in their existing home or place a trailer on the property while they built a new house. Additionally, in some of these cases township staff can’t issue a building permit without a demolition permit for the existing home, putting homeowners in a difficult position.

To alleviate the issue, staff created a policy to allow for demolition agreements in these instances.

The agreements commit the homeowners to demolishing the older house once they occupy the new dwelling.

To get an agreement homeowners must make certain commitments, and put up a security deposit they’ll get back once the agreement is completed.