London is Southwestern Ontario’s largest urban centre. Property due diligence can involve municipal tax rates, Zoning By-law Z.-1, building permits, rental licensing, heritage, conservation authority requirements and servicing.
2026 Property Taxes in London
London property tax bills reflect the applicable municipal and education components. Owners and buyers should use the City’s current 2026 tax information and the property’s assessment rather than relying on a previous owner’s dollar amount.
Zoning and Building Permits
London’s Zoning By-law Z.-1 regulates permitted uses, setbacks, lot coverage, parking and other standards. Most construction, additions, structural alterations and creation of an additional residential unit require a building permit. Heritage, conservation authority, tree, site-plan or Committee of Adjustment approvals can also apply to particular properties.
Additional Residential Units
London currently permits up to four total dwelling units on qualifying residential properties where zoning permits single-detached, semi-detached, street townhouse, duplex, triplex or converted dwellings. That can include up to three ARUs, with no more than two ARUs in a detached accessory building. A building permit is required, and rental licensing requirements apply.
London’s 2026 interim controls also impose current limits affecting ARU size and bedrooms while an adopted zoning amendment is under appeal. Confirm the rules in force before designing a project.
Buyer & Homeowner Due-Diligence Checklist
- Confirm the exact zoning and permitted uses.
- Review current 2026 property-tax information.
- Check permit history and whether prior work was closed.
- Verify ARU zoning, servicing, grading and rental-licensing requirements.
- Check heritage and Upper Thames River Conservation Authority constraints where relevant.
- Confirm parking, driveway and lot-coverage requirements before renovations.
Official London Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a London property have four units?
Potentially. London permits up to four total units on qualifying properties, but the property, zoning, design, servicing and building-code requirements must all comply.
Do I need a permit for a basement apartment?
Yes. London requires a building permit for an additional residential unit.
Related Ontario Home Intel Resources
For regional context, start with the Middlesex County Property Guide. Continue with our Ontario Zoning & Permit Guide, Property Tax Calculator and Municipal Property Guides.
General information only: Municipal bylaws, tax rates and approval requirements can change. Verify current property-specific information directly with the City of London and appropriate professionals before making a decision.