10 Things to Consider Before You Build an ADU

Building an ADU is a great way to increase your property value, add extra housing for a family member, or make additional income through rentals. However, it takes a little preparation to make this process go smoothly. Here are 10 things to know before you build ADU housing on your property.

1. Will It Follow Safety Guidelines?

Every additional building on your property needs to follow proper safety guidelines. One of the most important considerations is whether tenants can easily reach the street during a fire.

2. Is the Property Eligible?

Not all properties are eligible for building an ADU. Before breaking ground, you’ll have to check where your property stands on zoning issues including: the number of units allowed on the property, limits to the height of new buildings, and required setbacks from the ADU to the property line.

3. Is Extra Parking Needed?

Some cities and counties require you to create additional off-street parking when building an ADU. Depending on the size of your property, this rule may make building a new ADU difficult.

4. What Are the Site Conditions?

You’ll need to survey the conditions of your property where the ADU will be built. Look for issues like sloped or flat land, rainwater pooling, and soil quality.

5. Will Privacy Be Possible?

Privacy is important, especially if you’ll be renting your ADU. Make sure you have plans to create a sense of separation between your main house and the ADU.

6. Will It Have Utility Connections?

Before you build ADU housing, one of the most important things to know is how you will connect the unit to utilities. ADUs don’t always require a separate service meter from the main house. However, separate connections may be needed, especially if you plan to rent out the unit.

7. Will It Comply With Title 24?

Title 24, or California’s Building Energy Efficient Standards, considers ADUs new dwellings. That means all California ADUs have to meet these efficiency standards.

8. Can You Verify Your Design Guidelines?

Your ADU must adhere to the California Residential Code if someone lives in it. The code’s requirements include a kitchen, a bathroom, ceilings of a certain height, and rooms of a specific size.

9. Will It Follow Indoor Fire Regulations?

Your ADU must have a clear path to the street in the event of a fire, but it also needs protection for the interior. Check to see whether sprinklers will be mandatory in your new building.

10. Will the Interior Space Be Optimized?

As you’re designing your ADU, make sure you organize the interior in a way that makes the most of the space. Even ADUs of a few hundred square feet can feel roomy and spacious with the right interior design.

Find Out How The Selby Team Can Help You

There are many things to consider before you build an ADU unit. The truth is, building an ADU is not for everyone. For some people, buying a home or an existing ADU might be the best option.

Contact The Selby Team to explore your new home options and make the decision that’s right for you.