What Is An ADU?

ADU's In California

Thinking about adding an extra living space to your home? You might be considering what’s known as an ADU, short for Accessory Dwelling Unit. Essentially, an ADU is like a mini-home that’s either attached to or detached from the main house, providing independent living quarters for one or more people.

There are a few types of ADUs to consider:

  1. Detached ADUs: These units stand alone, separate from the main house, with their own structure and roof.
  2. Attached ADUs: These units are connected to the main house and share its roof structure.
  3. Converted ADUs: This type involves transforming existing space within the main house into a separate living area. This could be a converted garage, extra room, or even a portion of the house itself.
Detached ADU

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs): These are a specific type of conversion, where the new living space is entirely contained within the main house and typically maxes out at 500 square feet.

When it comes to size, there are some regulations to keep in mind. Generally, an ADU can’t exceed 850 square feet, though if it has more than one bedroom, it might go up to 1,000 square feet. If your local area doesn’t have specific ADU rules in place, the maximum size might be up to 1,200 square feet for a detached unit, or up to 50% of the existing home’s floor area for an attached unit (which typically means at least 800 square feet).

For more detailed information and regulations specific to California, you can check out the California Handbook on ADUs. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about ADUs and how they’re governed.

At Custom Living Homes, we excel in helping clients effortlessly and affordably add an ADU to their property. From selecting the perfect manufactured home to handling all the necessary documents and permits, we’re here every step of the way to ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

Teaming up with our trusted partner, ZSW Inc., we have an in-house General Contractor ready to tackle any challenges that may arise during planning, permitting, and construction. With our combined expertise, we navigate through obstacles and ensure each phase of your ADU project is completed with precision and care.

Ready to explore the exciting possibilities for your new ADU? Reach out to your local agent today and let’s get started on turning your vision into reality. Your dream ADU is just a phone call away!

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