Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
A secondary residential unit on the same property as a primary home, often used for rental or family housing. For example, a backyard cottage can serve as an ADU for tenants.
Your comprehensive guide to ADU terminology
A secondary residential unit on the same property as a primary home, often used for rental or family housing. For example, a backyard cottage can serve as an ADU for tenants.
A smaller ADU, usually up to 500 square feet, built within the main house. It's perfect for elderly relatives, like converting a bedroom into a compact studio.
Local laws governing where and how ADUs can be built, including size or parking rules. Some areas require one parking space per ADU.
Official approvals needed to legally construct an ADU. A building permit ensures compliance with safety codes, for instance.
Fees for reviewing ADU plans to meet local standards. These are paid before construction starts and vary by city.
Costs for obtaining construction permits, covering administrative expenses. These differ depending on the jurisdiction.
Charges to offset the ADU's effect on local infrastructure, like roads. They fund community resources impacted by new housing.
Rules specifying parking spaces for an ADU. Urban areas near transit might waive this, unlike suburban zones requiring one space.
Requirements for safe, accessible pathways to the ADU. This could mean adding a sidewalk to the entrance.
The impact of an ADU on property taxes, which may rise with added value. A $100,000 ADU could increase taxes based on local rates.
Linking the ADU to the water supply for clean water access. It might tie into the main house's water line for simplicity.
Connecting the ADU to the sewage system for waste disposal. This ensures compliance with health standards.
The electrical setup for the ADU, either linked to the main house or separate. It's like wiring a small apartment.
Connecting to gas for heating or cooking. This powers appliances like stoves in the ADU.
Individual meters to track ADU utilities separately. This allows tenants to pay their own electric bills, for example.
Improvements to existing utilities to support the ADU. Upgrading an electrical panel might be needed for added demand.
A dedicated unit providing hot water for the ADU. A tankless heater saves space and energy.
Setting up internet access for the ADU, often via Wi-Fi or a separate line. This ensures tenant connectivity.
Systems to handle runoff from the ADU, like gutters. This prevents flooding on the property.
Digging trenches to install underground utility lines. This connects water or power to a detached ADU.
Using wood as the main structural material. It's cost-effective and widely used in residential building.
Building the ADU off-site in sections for quick assembly. A pre-made shed delivered in a day is an example.
Using pre-manufactured units installed on-site. It's like ordering a ready-made tiny home.
A concrete base supporting the ADU. It's common in stable-soil areas, like a concrete patio.
A raised foundation with space underneath for maintenance. It's like a deck with storage below.
Affordable roofing made from asphalt-fiberglass material. It's standard on many suburban homes.
Durable, weather-resistant roofing from metal sheets. It resembles barn-style roofs.
Low-maintenance exterior cladding in various colors. It's like plastic panels on modern homes.
Pre-made panels with foam insulation for walls and roofs. They're like insulated sandwich boards for efficiency.
Selecting energy-efficient windows and secure doors. Double-glazed windows cut heat loss, for instance.
Total expenses for building an ADU, including labor and materials. A 600-square-foot unit might cost $200,000.
Charges for designing the ADU, often a percentage of costs. A basic design might cost $10,000.
Fees for permits and inspections by the city. These might total $5,000 for processing.
A Home Equity Line of Credit to fund the ADU. It's like a credit card backed by your home.
Earnings from renting the ADU to offset costs. A tenant might pay $2,000 monthly.
Government funds for ADU construction. California's CalHFA offers up to $40,000 for pre-development.
Incentives reducing tax liability for building an ADU. Energy-efficient ADUs might qualify.
Financial gains from the ADU, like rental income or value increase. It could yield a 5% return annually.
A short-term loan for building, later converted to a mortgage. It's like a bridge loan for projects.
Rebates or waived fees to encourage ADU building. Some cities offer utility discounts.
Obtaining permits for an unapproved ADU retroactively. This might involve adding fire safety features.
The framework ensuring the ADU's stability per codes. Load-bearing walls are key for two-story units.
How an ADU affects taxes, including rental income reporting. A $24,000 yearly rental might increase tax obligations.
Legal rules governing ADU construction. California allows ADUs on single-family lots, for example.
Required distances from property lines or structures. A 5-foot setback from a fence ensures safety.
Maximum size restrictions, often in square feet. Some areas cap ADUs at 1,200 square feet.
Rules mandating parking spaces. Rural areas might require one per ADU, unlike urban zones.
Rules requiring the owner to live in the main house. Some cities mandate this for a year after building.
Homeowners Association restrictions on ADUs. They might limit rentals or require design approval.
Permits for ADUs extending beyond property lines. This applies to building over a shared driveway.
Evaluating the property for ADU feasibility. It checks lot size and zoning suitability.
Designing the ADU's layout and look. A small open-plan studio fits tight lots well.
Diagrams showing the ADU's layout. A 400-square-foot unit might include a kitchen and bedroom.
Features reducing energy use, like insulation. LED lights save power in small spaces.
Design for disability access, like ramps. ADA-compliant bathrooms aid seniors.
Eco-friendly materials and practices. Solar panels cut energy costs sustainably.
Steps to get construction permits. This includes submitting plans and attending reviews.
Analysis of practicality and benefits. It weighs costs against rental income potential.
External views of the ADU's design. They show window and door placement.
Choosing durable, cost-effective materials. Vinyl siding is low-maintenance, for example.
Routine upkeep like gutter cleaning. Annual roof checks prevent leaks.
Preventing infestations with sealing or traps. Termite control protects wood structures.
Keeping the roof intact, like replacing shingles. Post-storm inspections catch damage early.
Maintaining outdoor areas around the ADU. Adding shrubs boosts curb appeal.
Painting to protect against weather. Refreshing stucco every few years maintains appearance.
Servicing heating and cooling systems. Annual filter changes keep air quality high.
Checking pipes and fixtures for issues. Fixing leaks prevents water waste.
Inspecting wiring and outlets for safety. Replacing old switches avoids hazards.
Keeping windows clear for light and looks. Annual cleaning enhances efficiency.
Clearing debris from gutters to prevent overflow. This protects the foundation.
Planning a functional kitchen in limited space. A compact island adds storage.
Creating a practical bathroom layout. A walk-in shower suits small units.
Choosing durable flooring like hardwood. Laminate offers a budget-friendly alternative.
Arranging lights for function and mood. Pendant lights work well in kitchens.
Selecting paint or wallpaper for walls. Neutral tones brighten small spaces.
Maximizing space with built-ins or shelves. Under-bed storage fits tight rooms.
Picking durable surfaces like quartz. It's low-maintenance for kitchens.
Installing cabinets for storage and style. White cabinets open up small areas.
Adding blinds or curtains for privacy. Blackout shades help with sleep.
Choosing doors for space and design. Pocket doors save room in tight spots.
Installing detectors and extinguishers. Kitchen smoke alarms reduce fire risks.
Using alarms or cameras for safety. A smart doorbell monitors visitors.
Planning for crises with exits and kits. A first-aid kit is a basic must-have.
Devices alerting to smoke or fire. Placing one in each bedroom is standard.
Sensors for detecting CO gas. They're vital near gas appliances.
Lights deterring intruders and aiding visibility. Motion-sensor lights are effective.
Securing doors with strong locks. Deadbolts add extra protection.
A mapped route for safe evacuation. It includes two exits per room.
Reinforcing windows against break-ins. Locks or bars enhance safety.
Adding a fence for privacy and security. A 6-foot fence deters trespassers.
Renting the ADU briefly via platforms like Airbnb. Some areas limit stays to 30 days.
Leasing the ADU for extended periods. A year-long lease at $2,000 monthly is typical.
Handling rentals, repairs, and tenants. A manager simplifies tenant screening.
Setting rent based on market rates. A 500-square-foot ADU might fetch $1,800.
Checking backgrounds for reliable renters. Credit checks ensure payment reliability.
Promoting the ADU via listings or signs. Online platforms like Zillow attract tenants.
Legal contracts outlining rental terms. They specify rent and maintenance duties.
Rules on how many people can live in the ADU. A 400-square-foot unit might cap at two.
Insurance covering rental-related risks. It protects against tenant damage.
Hosting events to showcase the ADU. A weekend showing can attract renters.
Professionals overseeing the ADU construction process, coordinating all trades. They manage everything from permits to final inspections, for example.
Design experts creating ADU plans. They ensure the design meets codes and client needs.
Engineers verifying the ADU's structural integrity. They might design load-bearing elements for safety.
Specialists designing HVAC and plumbing systems. They ensure efficient heating and cooling.
Professionals planning the electrical layout. They size circuits for appliances safely.
Officials checking the ADU for code compliance. They review framing and electrical work.
Specialized workers like plumbers or roofers. They handle specific construction tasks.
Overseeing the build's timeline and budget. They coordinate subcontractors for efficiency.
Creating interior or aesthetic plans. They select finishes and layouts for appeal.
Experts navigating the permit process. They speed up approvals with local authorities.