ADU TYPES
All ADUs are self-contained living spaces with a sleeping area, a kitchen, and a bathroom. Before the use of this technical term Accessory Dwelling Unit, ADUs have had many names over the years like granny flat, carriage house, pool house, garden cottage, and basement apartment. Extended family, servants, caregivers and the occasional college student may have used this space.
They can vary in physical appearance to fit discreetly into our communities. 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 an 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. Check out this other article about ADUs here.
