Do you wish that your home in Los Angeles had more space, perhaps for an in-law suite or a rental property to generate income? If so, you can achieve your goals without having to do a full addition. Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, are smaller, independent residential dwelling units located on the same lot as your home. They are very popular in California.
If you are interested in adding an additional room to your home, an ADU might be a great fit. Here are five things to know about these dwellings and how they can improve your living space.
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There are five main types of ADUs.
There are different types of ADUs – not just one. Here are five of the most popular options:
- Detached ADU. These standalone units are separated from the main home to give residents privacy. They can accommodate extended family or paying tenants.
- Attached ADU. Attached ADUs are additions that extend from the main home.
- Above garage ADU. Spacious garages and workshops that have ample space in the rafters can make for a comfortable ADU.
- Garage conversion. These conversions turn your garage into usable living space.
- Basement conversion. Like garage conversions, basement conversions take advantage of space already in the home. However, this isn’t an option for most Californians because our homes don’t have basements.
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ADUs have the same benefits as a home addition.
An ADU and a home addition can accomplish the same goals. Talk to an experienced residential contractor to determine what option is best for your home. Like home additions, ADUs increase square footage, raise property value and offer a unique, private space. They can also be rented out for extra income.
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ADUs are highly popular in California.
Accessory dwelling units are immensely popular in California because they allow extended family to remain close while maintaining privacy. Housing prices in California aren’t cheap, so ADUs make financial and practical sense for many families. Extended family can also help out with cooking and babysitting, saving time and money.
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To be ‘habitable’ in California, ADUs must have a bathroom and kitchen.
ADUs are only considered habitable when they have a functioning bathroom and kitchen or kitchenette. A home addition does not always require this, as they can be used as gaming rooms, playgrooms or an expanded kitchen space. ADUs, however, are small, independent housing units with a kitchen, bath, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
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Zoning laws will dictate what you can build on your property.
Kavin Construction is familiar with California building laws. We can help you determine what type of ADU your property can have. There may be guidelines over the type, size and design of your ADU, as well as requirements on minimum lot sizes and the number of ADUs you can have on one property. You may also have multiple sets of laws you have to follow, such as those from your city and your HOA.
To learn more about adding an ADU to your property, schedule a consultation with Kavin Construction. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals with an accessory dwelling unit. They have helped many families stay in their homes and accommodate extended family or grow their income with a rental property!
