ADU TYPES
Before the use of this technical term Accessory Dwelling Unit, ADU’s have had many names – granny flats, carriage house, pool house, garden cottage and basement apartment. Extended family, servants, care givers and the occasional college student may have shared a room, attic, barn or pool house.
All ADU’s are self-contained living spaces with a sleeping area, a kitchen and a bathroom.
They can vary in physical appearance to fit discreetly into our communities. So in this chapter we will look in detail at the various types of ADU’s, the pro and cons of each and other things to consider when deciding which is best for you.
Here are the main legal units allowed;
JUNIOR ADU (JADU)
Uses an existing bedroom from the main house
Uses and existing bathroom from the main house
Has a separate entrance
Has an efficiency kitchenette
Additional space can be added for the entrance and egress.
Cannot exceed additional 150 square foot
GARAGE CONVERSION
Uses detached or attached garage space for living space
Must be fireproofed on all walls attached to main house
Must have separate entrance
ATTACHED ADU
At least one wall is attached to the main house
Saves cost in sharing a wall with the main house
Uses less of the yard space
DETACHED GARAGE CONVERSION
Uses existing detached garage for living unit.
DETACHED ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (DADU)
detached from the main house.
Maximum size is 1200 square foot
Can only be 50% of the size of the main house
Least impact whilst being built for homeowners
Most private option for owners living in the main house
BASEMENT ADU
Converting lower level area for a living space
Creating light and ventilation for safety
Creating an EGREES for exiting in an emergency
ATTIC CONVERSION
Uses existing attic space
Adding a separate entrance
SECOND STORY ADU
Above a garage or single-story element
Will incur additional cost of an extra $50 per square foot approximately
The most expensive option
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER FOR IMPACT TO YOUR HOME
Are there trees that would block or impede the use of solar panels on the ADU?
Which side presents best access to utilities (water, sewer, gas & electric)?
- If the driveway goes to the rear do you want the ADU situated so a car lights shines on the ADU?
- Do you have a neighboring property you want to screen, or do you want to preserve a view?
- Will the placement preserve a good yard for you and separate space for the ADU tenant?
Elderly access – ramps – close to front of home, renter – as far away as possible, be close to utilities – wider driveway access side yard access – security motion lights away from main house bedrooms – make sure both dwellings have garden space around them?
A granny flat is a wonderful asset for a family because it’s so flexible. Often families rent them out to help pay the mortgage, young couples downsize and live in a granny flat mortgage free, they are also great for aging-in-place opportunities. Typically, a granny flat’s use changes over time as a family’s needs change.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options for the perfect ADU.