ADU Guide
All About California Accessory Dwelling Units
A Comprehensive Guide to Accessory Dwelling Units
Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, are becoming more popular as homeowners in California look for ways to add value to their properties, generate extra income, and provide an avenue for affordable housing.
But what are they? What are the different types? How do you go about planning and designing one?
The ADU Guide website aims to answer your questions and help prepare you for your ADU project better.
On This Website...
Click below to learn about:
Planning & Design
Learn about local requirements and get find a design you like.
See Planning & Design
Construction & Costs
Learn about the ADU construction process and related costs.
See Construction & Costs
Renting & Managing
Learn about leasing & getting your ADU rented & maintained.
See Renting & Managing
ADU Resources
See Local government resources, professionals & tools.
See ADU Resources
About Accessory Dwelling Units
What is an ADU?
Accessory Dwelling Unit Definition - ADU Meaning - An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a standalone living space with a separate outdoor entrance that offers all the necessary amenities for a household, such as areas for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and hygiene.
ADUs can be either newly built or converted from existing usable or non-usable spaces. ADUs have often been referred to by other names, such as backyard cottages, casitas, granny flats, and in-law units.
To qualify as an ADU, it must have a complete kitchen with a permanently installed cooking appliance and a full bathroom that includes sanitation and bathing facilities. If a structure lacks any of these amenities, it is not regarded as an ADU.
Click the image above to download the Accessory Dwelling Handbook from the California Department of Housing and Community Development
ADUs, and JADUs, can provide additional living space for family members or others, create supplemental income through rentals, and increase the home's value.
What is a JADU?
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Definition - JADU Meaning - A JADU is a living space within the confines of a proposed or existing dwelling featuring a dedicated external entrance. JADUs can be created from either habitable spaces (e.g., a current bedroom) or non-habitable spaces (e.g., a garage or storage room). JADUs are limited to 500 square feet in total size, including expansions of up to 150 square feet.
JADUs must provide independent facilities for living, sleeping, eating, and cooking (an area defined as an efficiency kitchen) and share or have separate sanitation amenities with the primary dwelling unit. Spaces that lack these features are not considered JADUs. Interior access to the main dwelling is optional for JADUs. Just to let you know, JADUs without internal access to the primary dwelling are deemed separate units under building codes, resulting in specific fire separation requirements.
Types of ADUs
Detached ADUs
A detached ADU is an additional living space situated on the same lot as, but separate from, a single-family house. Detached ADUs can be single-story or multi-story and come in many shapes and sizes.
Attached ADUs
An attached ADU is connected to the primary residence and shares one common wall. This type of unit is commonly found above garages or over basements and is often called an "in-law" unit.
Converted Space ADUs
Converted space ADUs are created by converting existing space, such as a basement, garage, attic, or shed. These units usually require more modifications and renovations than building a new structure.
Benefits of ADUs
Affordable Housing Solution
ADUs provide an affordable housing option for homeowners and renters. They help ease the housing shortage in many cities, especially regarding affordable rentals.
Additional Income
Renting out an ADU can be a great source of supplemental income for homeowners. Depending on the location and market rent, some homeowners have been able to cover their mortgages.
Increases Home Value
Adding an ADU to your property can also add value to your home. It can be a great selling point when it comes time to put your house on the market.
Multi-Generational Living
ADUs can also provide a great living option for multi-generational families. An ADU can give extended family members their own space and privacy while still being close enough for easy visits.
Environmentally Friendly
ADUs can be made of environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, making them an excellent option for those looking to provide additional living space and reduce their carbon footprint at the same time.
What To Do Next
Explore this website because it will answer your questions about ADUs and help you to get up to speed quickly about ADUs.
Check Out The Following
This website is organized into the following categories. Read through each section because it will give you a solid understanding of ADUs.
Header image courtesy of Sightline Institute: Missing Middle Homes Photo Library
