Cost to build 2 car detached garage?

A detached 2-car garage in Metro Vancouver typically runs $60,000–$150,000+, depending on size, finishes, and site conditions. That's a wide range, so let's break down what's driving the numbers.

Typical Cost Ranges

Basic/Builder Grade ($60,000–$85,000): Standard 20x22 or 22x24 ft footprint, concrete slab, wood frame, vinyl or hardboard siding, asphalt shingles, two single garage doors, basic electrical (lights and outlets). No insulation, no heating, no finishing.

Mid-Range ($85,000–$115,000): Larger footprint (24x24 or 24x26), insulated walls and ceiling, drywalled interior, upgraded doors (insulated steel or carriage-style), 200-amp sub-panel, LED lighting, one 240V outlet for EV charging or tools. May include a small window package.

High-End / With Suite Above ($115,000–$200,000+): Full finishing, engineered floor system for a loft or suite above, HVAC, custom doors and windows, stucco or Hardie siding, and potentially a bathroom rough-in. If you're adding a laneway suite above the garage, budget $200,000–$300,000+ and you'll need a Licensed Residential Builder registered with BC Housing, plus 2-5-10 home warranty coverage.

What drives the cost up in Vancouver specifically includes high labour rates (roughly 15–25% above the national average), the cost of concrete (slab alone can run $8,000–$15,000), soil conditions (especially in Richmond, Delta, or areas with clay or fill), seismic requirements under BCBC 2024, and the city's notoriously thorough permit process.

Permits and Regulations

You will need a building permit — no exceptions. In the City of Vancouver, expect permit fees of $1,500–$4,000+ for a detached garage, plus a few weeks to a few months for approval depending on your municipality. Suburban cities like Surrey, Langley, or Coquitlam are often faster. Your garage must comply with setback requirements (typically 0.6m–1.2m from rear and side lot lines, though this varies by zone), maximum lot coverage rules, and height restrictions. Electrical work must be done by a Technical Safety BC licensed electrician and inspected by TSBC.

If your lot is in the City of Vancouver's R1-1 zone, your garage footprint may also interact with multiplex and laneway house regulations — worth a conversation with a designer or your local building department before you start.

Professional Guidance

This is firmly in "hire a professional" territory. A detached garage involves a concrete foundation, structural framing, electrical, and roofing — all of which require permits and licensed trades. A general contractor can coordinate the whole project, or you can act as your own GC and hire trades separately (which saves money but adds significant time and coordination).

Next Steps:

• Confirm zoning and setback rules with your municipality's building department (links above for your city)
• Get 2–3 quotes from licensed general contractors — look for those with residential garage and outbuilding experience
• Decide early whether you want rough-in for EV charging, a future suite, or a workshop — it's far cheaper to do it during construction than retrofit later
• Budget a 10–15% contingency on top of your quote for surprises

Browse licensed contractors in our directory at Vancouver Construction Network to find builders experienced with detached garages across Metro Vancouver.