Construction & Renovation Services in Town of Riverview
Riverview's established 1960s-1990s housing stock on the Petitcodiac River's south bank represents the sweet spot of NB renovation — solid homes with dated finishes that reward thoughtful updates.
Neighbourhoods We Serve in Town of Riverview
Town of Riverview Housing Stock & History
The split-entry home defines Riverview. These distinctive homes — entered at a mid-level landing with stairs going up to the main living area and down to a finished lower level — were the dominant building type through the 1970s and 1980s. They offered families an affordable way to get two usable floors at a modest price. Today, these same homes are Riverview's primary renovation targets. The mid-level entry wall creates a compartmentalized layout that feels dated by modern open-concept standards, and the lower levels often have low ceilings, outdated panelling, and moisture issues. Raised bungalows with walk-out basements are the second most common type, particularly in Pine Glen and along the Hillsborough Road corridor. Newer two-storey colonials from the 1990s fill the remaining subdivisions, with these now entering their first major update cycle.
Development History
Riverview's development tells the classic Canadian bedroom community story. Before the 1960s, the south bank of the Petitcodiac River was sparsely populated farmland. The construction of the Gunningsville Bridge connecting Riverview to Moncton in 1966 transformed the area overnight — within two decades, the farmland was replaced by subdivision after subdivision of split-entry homes, raised bungalows, and two-storey colonials housing families who worked in Moncton but preferred Riverview's quieter, more affordable residential character. The town is now largely built out, with very few vacant lots remaining for new construction. This makes renovation the dominant construction activity. The 2021 Petitcodiac River restoration — removing the 50-year-old causeway and restoring tidal flow — has particular significance for Riverview, as the town's oldest and lowest-lying neighbourhoods (Bridgedale and Gunningsville) sit closest to the restored riverbank and may now face changed groundwater conditions.
Construction & Renovation Guide: Town of Riverview
Riverview renovation work is dominated by the split-entry modernization project. The mid-level entry wall in these 1970s-1980s homes is typically load-bearing, carrying roof loads down through the centre of the home. Removing it for an open-concept transformation requires an engineered steel or LVL beam — this is not a DIY project. Beyond the structural work, split-entries typically need simultaneous updates to kitchens (original cabinets and countertops from the 1970s-1980s), bathrooms (dated tile, inefficient fixtures), and mechanical systems (oil furnaces, original wiring). The economics work well: Riverview's $250,000-$400,000 price range means a $60,000-$120,000 comprehensive renovation brings the home to modern standards at a fraction of new-construction cost in nearby Dieppe. Moisture management is the critical wild card — properties near the Petitcodiac River or in low-lying areas of Bridgedale require groundwater assessment before any below-grade work.
Common Renovation Projects
- Split-entry wall removal and open-concept conversion — the signature Riverview renovation, requiring engineered beam design and permit ($8,000-$15,000 for structural portion alone)
- Complete kitchen renovation replacing original 1970s-1980s cabinets, countertops, and flooring with modern finishes
- Basement waterproofing in river-adjacent properties — exterior membrane, drainage tile, and sump pump installation before finishing
- Oil-to-heat-pump conversion in homes still running original oil furnaces, often combined with oil tank decommissioning
- Roof and siding replacement on homes with 30-40 year old asphalt shingles and aluminum or vinyl siding approaching end of life
- Bathroom gutting and rebuilding — many Riverview bathrooms have hidden moisture damage behind 1970s tile due to inadequate ventilation
Typical Renovation Costs in Town of Riverview
Estimates based on typical project scope. Actual costs vary by project specifics, material choices, and site conditions.
Unique Construction Challenges
- Split-entry mid-level wall removal requires structural engineering — the wall carries roof loads in most 1970s-1980s designs, and improper removal can cause sagging or collapse
- Concrete block foundations (common in 1970s Riverview construction) develop horizontal cracking from hydrostatic pressure and freeze-thaw cycling — repair before finishing the basement
- Many Riverview homes have original 100-amp electrical panels that are insufficient for modern loads — plan for a 200-amp panel upgrade ($2,500-$4,000) as part of any major renovation
- Hidden moisture damage behind bathroom tile is common — budget 15-20% contingency for bathrooms in 1970s-1980s homes where shower walls may need complete reconstruction
- The Petitcodiac River restoration has changed seasonal water table patterns in Bridgedale and Gunningsville — basements that were dry for 40 years may now require waterproofing
Foundation Types in Town of Riverview
Riverview's housing era means concrete block foundations are the dominant type in the majority of homes. These hollow-core block foundations were standard construction through the mid-1980s and are more vulnerable than poured concrete to freeze-thaw damage and hydrostatic pressure. After 40-50 years of Maritime weather, many show horizontal step cracking along mortar joints, efflorescence (white mineral deposits indicating moisture penetration), and interior dampness. Newer homes (1985+) typically have poured concrete foundations that perform better but are not immune to cracking. Properties closest to the Petitcodiac River face additional challenges from the restored tidal influence on groundwater.
Common Foundation Issues
- Horizontal step cracking in concrete block walls from decades of freeze-thaw cycling and lateral earth pressure
- Water seepage through deteriorated mortar joints in block foundations — particularly in spring and during heavy rainfall
- Efflorescence and mineral deposits indicating ongoing moisture migration through foundation walls
- Floor slab cracking in lower-level finished spaces, particularly in split-entry homes where the lower level slab was poured directly on glacial till
- Sump pump failure or absence — many 1970s homes were built without sump systems and now require them as groundwater patterns have changed
Environmental Considerations in Town of Riverview
Asbestos
MEDIUM-HIGH RISKProbability in area homes: 55-80% in homes built before 1985
Riverview's peak building era (1970s-1980s) coincides exactly with the peak use of asbestos-containing materials in Canadian residential construction. The most common asbestos sources in Riverview homes are vermiculite attic insulation (often Zonolite brand), 9x9-inch vinyl floor tiles and their black mastic adhesive in lower levels, pipe wrap insulation on heating ductwork and water pipes, and drywall joint compound. Many split-entry homes also have textured ceiling finishes (popcorn ceilings) that may contain asbestos. Before any renovation that involves disturbing insulation, removing flooring, or opening walls and ceilings in a pre-1985 Riverview home, professional asbestos testing ($200-$500 for bulk sampling) is strongly recommended.
Common Asbestos-Containing Materials
- Vermiculite attic insulation (Zonolite brand)
- 9x9-inch vinyl floor tiles and black mastic adhesive
- Pipe and duct insulation wrap in basements and crawlspaces
- Textured ceiling finishes (popcorn/stipple) applied before 1985
- Drywall joint compound in original drywall installations
Radon
HIGH RISKRiverview shares the Greater Moncton region's high radon risk. The town's glacial till soils contain naturally occurring uranium that produces radon gas, and the predominantly concrete block foundations in older homes offer more pathways for radon infiltration than poured concrete (through mortar joints, open block cores, and floor-wall junctions). Any basement finishing or renovation project should begin with a minimum 90-day radon test. Riverview's split-entry homes are particularly important to test because families spend significant time in the lower level — which is partially below grade and has the highest radon concentrations. Sub-slab depressurization is the standard mitigation approach if levels exceed Health Canada's 200 Bq/m³ guideline.
Soil & Drainage
Riverview sits on glacial till deposits (a compacted mix of sand, clay, and gravel) overlying sandstone bedrock. The till has variable drainage characteristics — well-drained sandy areas on higher ground in Pine Glen and Riverview Heights, and heavier clay deposits in the lower-lying areas of Bridgedale and Gunningsville that drain poorly. The sandstone bedrock is relatively close to the surface in some areas, which limits excavation options for deep foundations or swimming pools. Spring snowmelt and fall rainfall events can push the seasonal water table above basement floor level in low-lying properties, particularly those within 300 metres of the Petitcodiac River.
Drainage considerations: Properties in Bridgedale and Gunningsville should have exterior grading and drainage assessed before any basement renovation. The restored Petitcodiac tidal flow means that groundwater levels in these areas may be higher during extreme tides and spring runoff than at any point in the last 50 years. Interior perimeter drainage with a sump pump is the minimum recommended system for basement finishing in river-adjacent Riverview properties.
All environmental assessments should be conducted by qualified professionals before renovation work begins. We coordinate testing and abatement as part of our renovation process.
Property Values & Renovation ROI in Town of Riverview
Riverview occupies a sweet spot in the Greater Moncton market — more affordable than Dieppe, with larger lots and established trees, but close enough to Moncton's commercial core for easy commuting. Detached homes average around $433,000, which means a $60,000-$100,000 comprehensive renovation (kitchen, bathrooms, entry wall removal, mechanical updates) brings the home to a $500,000-$550,000 finish level at a total investment well below new-construction pricing. The town's built-out status means no new construction competition at the entry-level price point — renovated split-entries compete only against each other.
Market outlook: Riverview's market has stabilized after several years of rapid appreciation. Prices are forecast to grow 2-3% annually, with renovated homes significantly outperforming unrenovated properties. The greatest price gap exists in the split-entry segment — a modernized open-concept split-entry sells for $50,000-$80,000 more than an equivalent unrenovated home. Families relocating from Ontario and other higher-cost provinces see Riverview as exceptional value.
Building Permits & Regulations in Town of Riverview
The Town of Riverview issues building permits through its administrative offices. Building permit applications are submitted online through the town's permit portal. Permits are required for structural modifications, additions, new construction, demolition, and any renovation affecting electrical, plumbing, or fire safety systems. The split-entry wall removal — Riverview's most common structural renovation — always requires a building permit with an engineered beam design submitted as part of the application. Electrical and plumbing permits are separate through NB Technical Inspection Services (1-888-659-3222). The town applies the National Building Code of Canada 2020 at Tier 2, which became effective across New Brunswick on May 1, 2025.
Common Permits Required
- Building permit for split-entry wall removal and structural beam installation (engineered design required)
- Building permit for additions, dormers, and any work affecting the building envelope
- Electrical wiring permit from NB Technical Inspection Services for panel upgrades, new circuits, or rewiring
- Plumbing permit from NB Technical Inspection Services for fixture relocation, new drainage, or water heater replacement
- Demolition permit before removing garages, sheds, or other structures
Heritage Considerations
Riverview has no designated heritage districts or individual heritage properties. The town's housing stock dates almost entirely from the 1960s onward, and heritage conservation review does not apply to renovation projects.
Zoning Notes
Riverview's zoning is predominantly low-density residential (R1 and R2 zones). Secondary suites and accessory dwelling units may require a zoning variance or development agreement depending on the property's zone designation. The town is part of the Greater Moncton Planning District and follows its regional planning framework. Contact the town's planning staff before designing secondary suites to confirm compliance.
Applicable Codes & Standards
- New Brunswick Building Code — Provincial building standards applicable to all renovation work
- NB Technical Inspection Services of New Brunswick — Electrical, gas, and fuel-related work requires permits and licensed technicians
Key Renovation Considerations for Town of Riverview
Get a structural engineer involved early for any split-entry wall removal — the $1,500-$2,500 engineering fee saves potentially catastrophic costs from improper load-bearing wall modifications
Have your concrete block foundation assessed before finishing the basement — horizontal cracking, mortar deterioration, and moisture issues should be repaired before enclosing the space behind drywall
Budget for a 200-amp electrical panel upgrade if your home still has the original 100-amp service — modern kitchens, heat pumps, and EV chargers demand more power than 1970s panels can safely deliver
Test for both radon and asbestos before starting — Riverview's housing era (1970s-1980s) hits the peak for both hazards, and testing costs ($200-$500 each) are insignificant compared to remediation discovered mid-project
Coordinate basement waterproofing with exterior landscaping — the ideal time to install exterior drainage tile and membrane is when the yard is already disturbed for grading or deck construction
Plan for temporary relocation during comprehensive split-entry renovations — removing the entry wall, updating kitchen and bathrooms, and replacing mechanical systems simultaneously typically takes 8-12 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions: Renovations in Town of Riverview
How much does a full split-entry renovation cost in Riverview?
A comprehensive split-entry modernization in Riverview — including mid-level wall removal with structural beam, kitchen renovation, two bathroom updates, flooring throughout, and painting — typically costs $60,000-$120,000 depending on finish level. The structural component (wall removal, beam, and posts) runs $8,000-$15,000 including engineering. A kitchen to modern standards is $20,000-$42,000. Two bathrooms add $20,000-$50,000. Flooring throughout runs $8,000-$15,000. This is significantly less than purchasing a comparable-quality new home in Dieppe at $480,000+, and the ROI in Riverview's market is strong — expect 70-85% return on well-executed renovations.
Is the lower level of a split-entry considered a basement for building code purposes?
It depends on grade level. In most Riverview split-entries, the lower level is partially below grade — typically the back wall is at or below grade while the front has a walk-out or partial walk-out. If more than 50% of the lower-level perimeter wall height is below the adjacent finished grade, it is classified as a basement under the National Building Code. This affects requirements for egress windows (minimum size for bedrooms), moisture protection, and insulation standards. Regardless of classification, any bedroom in the lower level must have a code-compliant egress window (minimum 0.35 m² clear opening).
Should I waterproof my Riverview basement before finishing it?
Yes — especially if your home is in Bridgedale, Gunningsville, or any area within 300 metres of the Petitcodiac River. Even if your basement has been dry for years, the 2021 river restoration has changed groundwater patterns. At minimum, install a sump pump with battery backup before finishing. For comprehensive protection, consider exterior waterproofing membrane and drainage tile ($8,000-$15,000 for a typical Riverview home). The cost of waterproofing before finishing is a fraction of the cost of tearing out a finished basement to fix water damage — a $10,000 waterproofing investment protects a $40,000 finishing investment.
What permits do I need for a kitchen renovation in Riverview?
For a cosmetic kitchen renovation (new cabinets, countertops, flooring, painting), no permit is typically required. However, if you're moving plumbing fixtures (sink relocation), adding or modifying electrical circuits (new lighting, appliance circuits), or removing walls, you'll need permits. Wall removal in a split-entry kitchen almost always involves a load-bearing wall — this requires a building permit from the Town of Riverview with engineered beam specifications, plus separate electrical and plumbing permits from NB Technical Inspection Services. Apply for permits before starting work; retroactive permits are not guaranteed and inspectors can require you to open finished work.
How do I know if my Riverview home has asbestos?
You cannot identify asbestos by sight — professional testing is required. However, if your Riverview home was built between 1965 and 1985 (the majority of the town's housing stock), the probability of asbestos-containing materials is 55-80%. The most common locations are: attic insulation (grey or brown vermiculite granules), floor tiles (9x9-inch vinyl tiles with black adhesive), pipe insulation (white or grey wrap around basement plumbing), and textured ceilings. A professional bulk sample test costs $200-$500 and identifies exactly which materials contain asbestos. If asbestos is found, a licensed abatement contractor must handle removal — costs range from $1,500 for pipe wrap to $10,000+ for full attic vermiculite removal.
About Town of Riverview
Riverview is a mature, family-oriented bedroom community that offers a quieter lifestyle than adjacent Moncton while maintaining convenient access to the city's amenities via the Gunningsville and Causeway bridges. Its established tree-lined streets, good schools, and moderate home prices attract families seeking value. The town's built-out status means residents invest in their existing homes rather than move — creating a steady, predictable renovation market where contractors develop long-term relationships with homeowners who return for successive projects.
Our Services in Town of Riverview
Bathroom Renovations
Full bathroom remodels from compact ensuites to spa-inspired retreats
Kitchen Renovations
Modern kitchen remodels tailored to your lifestyle
Basement Renovations
Turn your lower level into usable, comfortable living space
Secondary Suites & Garden Homes
Legal secondary suites and accessory dwelling construction
Legal Rental Suites
Code-compliant rental suites that generate income
General Contracting
Full-service residential construction and renovation management
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