Duplex to a SFH

[Karim Shah]

Hi, i'm wondering what would be the procedure to convert a multi family (duplex) to a single famiy house? Has anyone done this?

[Emilio Ramirez]

This is primarily a zoning issue. So it would depend on the municipality in which the property resides. Most Zoning codes can be found online and an assessors info page should list the zoning.

I would guess based on your info that the zoning is single family to 2,3 or 4 family residential. The zoning will tell you this information in addition to allowable lot sizes and set backs.

As JScott told you, you would have to talk with the municipality in which the property is located to see what is required. It may be nothing other than typical building permits.

Logistically you will have to decide if you want to keep two of everything. Two furnaces, two water heaters, two electric meters, two kitchens, etc. Assuming that the current two family has everything split like that.

If it is in detroit, I would keep the two furnaces. Splitting the house into two heating zones would be more efficient and you wouldn't have to have them both running if you didn't need them. I would check the water heater size. If they are both 90 gallons then you can probably get by with one. Doesn't make sense to be continuously heating two water tanks that are redundant. Check with a plumber.

Of course, all of this would depend on what you are planning to do with the house.