converting a sfh to a triplex

[Grayson Wright]

Just purchased a large house in Dallas area. Previous owner used to rent it out as two apartments and it is classified in city as a multifamily. House is large enought to convert it into a Triplex. Currently starting the process of the conversion to a triplex. Would like to have separate electric and gas meters on each unit. I have never done this as I have only purchased SFH and rented them out. Can anyone please tell me how they have done this, and how complicated the process has been?

[Bruce Lynn]

Will the city allow you to convert to 3plex?   City of Dallas is notoriously reluctant to do this and slow to do this.  My guess is it might take you six months to a year to get approval.  Don't start the conversion until you have approval or you can spend a lot of money putting it back...if they find out you did the work first, I've seen cities make you put it back the way it was before they grant you the permit to allow it....kind of to teach you a lesson.

Also City of Dallas does have rental inspections....it does take time sometimes to get to you...maybe 1-2-3 years, but when they find the unpermitted 3plex, they may red tag you for occupancy so that you can't rent it until resolved.