28 May What Is An ADU?
What is an ADU?
The new big question being asked in Real Estate is what does ADU mean and what is it! ADU stands for Accessory Dwelling Unit. An ADU is a secondary unit built on a property where existing homes are already in place! In January of 2018 California passed legislation making this process much easier and since then, we have had regulations to assist in making building an ADU much more affordable!
Each City and County have different rules and requirements, however, here is some general information. One ADU unit can be built lot zoned R1,R2, or R3 for only one residence as long as certain requirements are met. These requirements must meet current building codes. One of the homes must have an owner occupant however; the standard has changed allowing the smaller home to be the owner occupied home. Only one ADU can be built on each property. The size must be less than ½ of the size of the current residence up to 1200 sq. ft. and cannot be less than 150 sq. ft. Utilities are easier to connect to and are often less expensive because they could tie into the current homes utility services. An ADU can be detached or attached to the current residence structure. One parking space is required to be on the parcel of land, however it can be uncovered and can be a tandem parking spot.
Please check with your City and County building departments. Even if they are legal to build, you want to be certain your property can accommodate an ADU!
Have a Great Day, Krista
OiC Real Estate Services Inc.
DRE#01086468