Benefits of ADUs

There are many reasons to create an ADU, including the following:

ADUs are a great way to create a little extra space in your home, expand your living space, or have a guest bedroom. ADUs are a great way to add another wing or floor to your home. Maybe you need a little more bedroom space for your growing family or more living area while you wait to move to the suburbs.

ADUs are a cost-effective way to increase the value of your home. ADUs are especially important for those who live in an expensive or tightly-packed city, as they’re an affordable way to increase the value of your home. Also, ADUs lessen the load on your home’s power and water needs.

You can live in the ADU and rent the rest of the house, generating extra income. For instance, existing homeowners can convert their garage into an ADU to rent out for income. ADUs also allow you to live in the ADU while renting out the rest of the property.

ADU Laws and Regulations

Building an ADU can seem complex at times. However, by understanding the regulations and getting your project approved, you can keep your project in line and build a sturdy addition to your home. Starting January 1, 2020, it became easier to build and legalize ADUs.

What local laws and regulations affect you?

Municipalities vary, which is why it’s important to know the specifics of your area. Ruth Design LA will walk with you through these things so don’t hesitate to reach out!

Types of ADUs

There are three categories of ADUs, detached, attached ADU, and Conversion ADU.

1. A detached ADU can be built as an independent structure on a lot or as a unit within a garage with several units. They are usually accessed by an exterior door that leads to a small foyer, then through an interior door to the living space. This option has the greatest flexibility in terms of zoning, but an ADU must be at least 50-feet away from the nearest front or rear lot line. Detached ADUs can be suitable for families that want to move out to a suburban community and still be close to an urban job setting.
2. An attached ADU is as a unit as part of a primary house. In most cases, homeowners set up attached ADUs to eliminate any drawback between the primary house and granny flat while maximizing their lot coverage. The attached ADUs are usually accessed by a side door that opens onto the main house’s living space. This design allows homeowners to add an ADU without a costly home modification in many jurisdictions.
3. A conversion ADU is a unit as part of a primary house and is converted from a legal room for non-habitability. This type of ADU is part of the original house structure. They are usually on the lower level of the house and are built with a separate outside entrance.