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Before You Build an ADU, Read This!

ADU’s, or Granny Flats, are all the rage in California since new legislation passed in 2017.

Thinking of adding a granny flat? Here’s a few tips!

For homeowners, granny flats are a great way to expand the footprint of your home and see a return on your investment. It’s also great for renters because there’s more opportunity to find alternatives to apartment living!

Tip 1: Know What an ADU is.

LA County defines an ADU as a dwelling unit with a full kitchen and bathroom, which is an accessory use to a primary or main single family residence. This separates it from a guest house. A guest house doesn’t have a kitchen, and it’s not just adding a room or bedroom to a current home.

So, depending where you live, these guidelines might be a bit different. Sizing, placement, and other rules may vary. But, for Californians, with the new legislation that’s just passed, the cost and process to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is easier than ever.

Keep in mind that two sets of rules apply. This depends on if your new addition is created within an existing space (bedroom, attic, garage, or basement). It also depends on whether it adds square footage outside or on top of existing structures (attached or detached).

Tip 2: I’m Flipping, Should I Add a Granny Flat?

Granny flats are a great way to create more value in your property if you plan on flipping. They expand the footprint of your home and create more space for “separate” living, which gives more flexibility to future homeowners. They provide space for private tenants, college kids moving back in, or for those who like to take advantage of the newest tourist trend: AirBnb!

Tip 3: What Type of Property is an ADU Dream?

Does your home have a garage, an alleyway, driveway, no owner-occupancy clauses? What about a flat lot? These and other traits can make or break your ADU dreams. So, look into it before laying down that foundation!

Tip 4: Know the Scope!

Building an ADU is not as simple or cheap as remodeling a small bathroom or adding an island to a kitchen. So, you’re pretty much adding full size house. Granted, it’s probably on a smaller scale. It’s still a huge project nonetheless. When expanding your home or creating rooms out of areas that exist, usually plumbing, electricity and other “infrastructure” is already in place. An ADU is essentially a small home on your property that has none of these things.

Tip 5: Know the Cost

Maxable says, “the bigger your ADU, the cheaper the cost per square foot will be. Building cost will vary dramatically by region. We recommend having a budget ranging from about $200,000 – $350,000 for a detached unit in the South Bay.” Again, costs will vary by area, project, laws, etc., but be prepared for all variables.

Extra Hint

Like my mantra, “Dream, Design, Do” says, you can’t dream and get it done without a little planning! Consult an architect who has specific experience with ADUs to get the best advice. You’ll save so much more planning ahead than you would flying by the seat of your pants on just a dream.