Multiplex Construction

Multiplex projects sit at the intersection of design, finance and policy, and small mistakes compound fast. We bring the same craftsmanship as a custom home to a multi-unit setting, while staying laser-focused on the numbers that decide whether the project actually performs.

Who builds multiplexes in Burnaby?

Icon Projects builds multiplex and small-scale multi-unit housing across Burnaby and Greater Vancouver, from feasibility and rezoning through to occupancy. We are a CHBA Master Residential Builder, licensed by BC Housing under the 2-5-10 home warranty, and building in Greater Vancouver since 2004. Our current Burnaby multiplex, 7609 Coldicutt, completes Fall 2026.

How many units can I build on a Burnaby lot?

Under Burnaby's R1 SSMUH zoning, up to three units on a lot of 280 square metres or less, up to four above that, and up to six where any part of the lot sits within 400 metres of a frequent-transit stop. Site geometry, protected trees and servicing capacity routinely reduce what actually fits below the permitted maximum.

What does it cost to build a multiplex in Burnaby?

On our own Step Code 4 multiplex projects, all-in construction runs about $330 per square foot, covering hard costs, soft costs and our markup, and excluding GST and land. Hard costs alone run about $235 per square foot. These are our own figures on our own projects, not market data, and a sloped or poorly serviced site can move them.

How long does a multiplex take to build?

Construction runs about six months from demolition to completion on our Burnaby projects. Design, consultants and municipal permit review sit ahead of that and often take longer than the build itself, so plan the project around both halves rather than the construction schedule alone.

How much capital do I need before construction financing arrives?

On our projects a developer typically needs under $100,000 of their own capital to carry construction to lockup, because our supplier and trade network works on deferred payment terms. That covers construction only and excludes land. We are a builder, not a lender, and the arrangement is reviewed project by project.

Can multiplex units be stratified and sold separately?

Yes. Provincial legislation allows strata subdivision of SSMUH units and Burnaby has been issuing strata-eligible R1 permits since the zone was adopted. The path is cleaner on attached forms than on several detached principal buildings on one parcel, so decide your exit strategy early because it shapes the design.

Do multiplex units need 2-5-10 home warranty coverage?

Every unit intended for sale must be enrolled in BC's 2-5-10 home warranty by a builder licensed with BC Housing. Two years on labour and materials, five on the building envelope, ten on structure. You can and should verify a builder's licence yourself on the BC Housing public registry.

Is a multiplex cheaper to build than a custom home?

Per square foot, generally yes, because details repeat across units and site setup and supervision spread over more floor area. The saving is smaller than people expect, though, because multi-unit work adds servicing complexity, acoustic and fire separation between units, and warranty enrolment for each home.