Converting part of a villa into a separate rental apartment is an attractive idea, especially on upper floors or in annexes, because it turns unused space into monthly income, or gives a married son independent living without leaving the house. But its success depends on regulatory planning and good design: an entrance that does not compromise family privacy, separated services, sound insulation, and a permit that protects the owner at occupancy and sale. This guide explains what to check first, the usual architectural changes, the permit route, and how to plan for it from the start in new villas.
Check the Requirements First
- Do the building regulations for the site allow multiple units?
- Additional parking requirements.
- Safety requirements and separation between units.
- Does the change increase area or alter the use in the permit?
Read: Villa building regulations in Riyadh.
The Usual Architectural Changes
- A separate entrance that does not pass through family spaces, which may mean an external stair.
- A kitchen and bathroom of its own for the unit.
- Sound insulation between the unit and the family.
- Separated services: electricity and water meters if possible. Read about load calculation.
- Natural ventilation and light for every room in the unit.
Where Should the Apartment Be?
| Location | Advantages | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| The entire first floor | Enough space for a family | Needs a separate stair |
| The rooftop annex | Good privacy | Limited area and roof heat |
| Part of the ground floor | Easy access | Separating privacy from family majlis rooms |
| A separate ground-level annex | Full independence | Depends on plot area and requirements |
The Permit
Changes to components and entrances are made through the add and modify building components service on Balady. Read: Dividing a villa into apartments or adding a separate entrance, and see our addition and modification permit service. If the change affects structural elements, such as opening a new stair, it needs a structural study.
Best: Plan From the Start
If you are building a new villa and expect to rent in future, design a separable entrance and services from the start: a stair position that allows a separate entrance, separate electricity and water services, and insulation between floors. Read: Designing a two-floor villa with an annex and Villa design mistakes.
Common Mistakes
- The apartment entrance passing through the family yard or next to the majlis.
- A single meter causing bill disputes with the tenant.
- An unsafe external stair, or one in the setback.
- Carrying out the change without a permit. Read: Risks of changes without a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the apartment be sorted with a separate deed?
It depends on the sorting conditions and the building's eligibility. See our sorting consultancy service, and read: Is your building eligible for sorting?.
Is renting without amending the permit a violation?
Physical changes to components without a permit are a violation, regardless of renting.
Is an external stair allowed?
It depends on its position, the setbacks and site requirements; the engineering office determines it.
Do I need an extra parking space?
The requirements may call for additional parking for the unit; check before designing.
How much does the conversion cost?
It depends on the extent of architectural, MEP and structural changes; the office estimates it after inspection.
How Abak Engineering Consultancy Helps
Abak is an accredited engineering office in Riyadh that studies whether a separate apartment can be added to your villa, designs the entrance, separation and services, prepares the drawings and obtains the addition and modification permit. Learn about our design services, or contact us.
Regulatory information is based on the Balady platform and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, and procedures may be updated by the competent authority. Last reviewed: October 2026.