Custom Home Builder · Leaside, Toronto

Custom Home Builder Leaside

Leaside's stock of 1940s–1960s brick bungalows and two-storey homes sits in one of Toronto's most sought-after family neighbourhoods — and nearly every block is mid-transformation. Kopman Build specialises in the full-scope custom rebuilds and bungalow-to-two-storey conversions that define Leaside today, delivered with the discipline of 25+ years and 400+ projects behind us.

Why Leaside families choose Kopman Build

Bungalow-to-two-storey conversions are the signature project in Leaside — and they are more complex than they appear. Lifting a second storey onto a 1950s brick structure requires structural assessment, careful integration with the existing foundation, and a clear plan for the months your family will be displaced. Experience matters here more than anywhere.

Leaside's compact lots and established streetscape mean every project is subject to scrutiny from neighbours and the City alike. We know the zoning bylaws, the variance process, and how to design within the envelope that actually gets approved — not the one that looks good on paper and stalls at the permit stage.

This is a tight-knit community where reputation travels fast. Kopman Build has built its practice on referrals, and every Leaside project is treated as if the next client is watching — because they likely are.

What's included in a custom home build

Site & Design Review

Feasibility assessment, lot evaluation, architect and consultant coordination before a single dollar is committed.

Pre-Construction Budgeting

Itemised estimates with allowances and contingencies — cost certainty before breaking ground.

Permit & Approvals

Full permit management across Toronto building and zoning requirements, including variance applications where needed.

Ground-Up Construction

Full-time site supervision, weekly reporting, and live cost-to-complete visibility throughout the build.

Trade Coordination

A trusted network of skilled tradespeople — the same crews, project after project.

Handover & Aftercare

Structured handover with all drawings, warranties, and manuals. 12-month attendance window post-completion.

Our custom home process

  1. 01

    Consultation

    We listen first. A site walk and discovery session to define the project in writing — goals, constraints, budget, and timeline.

  2. 02

    Design & Planning

    Working with your architect or ours, we develop a scope of work, construction schedule, and complete permits strategy.

  3. 03

    Pre-Construction Budget

    A line-by-line estimate with allowances, contingencies, and a clear path to a fixed-price contract.

  4. 04

    Construction

    Full-time supervision, weekly client updates, and open-book cost tracking throughout the build.

  5. 05

    Delivery & Aftercare

    Structured handover and a 12-month attendance window. The relationship doesn't end at move-in.

Common questions about custom home builds in Leaside

What does a bungalow-to-two-storey conversion cost in Leaside?

A full second-storey addition on a Leaside bungalow typically ranges from $350,000 to $650,000 depending on the scope of the ground-floor work, structural requirements, and finish level. When combined with a full main-floor renovation, total project costs often fall between $500,000 and $900,000. We provide a detailed pre-construction budget before any commitment is made.

Do I need a permit for a second-storey addition in Leaside?

Yes. A second-storey addition in Leaside requires a building permit from the City of Toronto, along with stamped architectural and structural drawings. Depending on the scope, a zoning review may also be required. Toronto permit timelines typically run 3–6 months, and we manage the full submission and approval process on your behalf.

Can Kopman Build handle a full gut renovation of a 1950s Leaside home?

Absolutely. Leaside's 1940s–1960s brick homes often require comprehensive updates — new electrical panels, plumbing stack replacements, insulation upgrades, and structural reinforcement — alongside the finish renovation. We scope all of this upfront so there are no surprises mid-project.

How long does a second-storey addition take in Leaside?

From initial consultation to occupancy, a Leaside second-storey addition typically takes 12–18 months: roughly 3–5 months for design and permits, and 8–12 months of construction. Combining the addition with a full main-floor renovation does not always add proportional time, since much of the work runs concurrently.

Ready to build your custom home in Leaside?

Tell us about your project. Initial consultations are confidential and no-obligation. We serve Leaside and all of Toronto.

Request a Consultation