Frequently asked questions about ADU projects.
1. Why build an ADU?
Commonly, for the family, long-term.
- It provides affordable senior living.
- It’s cost effective for young adults.
- Family and guest can stay longer!
- It provides an increased property value and investment opportunity.
- It can always be rented out for extra income.
2. How to know if you can build an ADU on your property?
This varies by city (or county) building and planning jurisdictions. It can even depend on your neighborhood. You should check out your city rules or contact us for help.
3. How big can I make my ADU?
ADU size allowances depend on your city (or county) ADU rules, FAR (floor area ratio), rear yard coverage and other calculations.
4. What’s the difference between an ADU and a “Tiny House”?
A Tiny House is a mobile home on wheels but not road worthy. There are strict rules for moving them in California. An ADU is a fixed, foundation built home with permanent utilities, sewer, and generally built to last.
5. Can I rent my ADU?
Yes. But you need to check to see if there are short term rent restrictions in your city.
6. What goes into a garage conversion cost?
Most garages don’t meet the structural and energy requirements of a habitable space and require quite a bit of rework to be livable. Slabs need be broken out to install plumbing, electrical, gas, water, and sewer.
7. How do people pay for ADUs?
There are a number of ways:
- Home equity lines of credit
- Move liquid assets into this long-term, flexible asset
- Loan against non-retirement encumbered assets
- Selling family member’s home to relocate them to the ADU
8. How much do permits cost for an ADU?
Permits are a city by city, neighborhood by neighborhood question. Permits and additional required fees can range (in total) from $12,000 to $25,000 depending on a series of project by project factors.
Here’s a list of additional fees to expect:
- School fees
- Parkland fees
- Water District fees
- Parking / Transportation fees
- Development Impact fees
9. Will building an ADU trigger a property tax reassessment?
No. However, there will be a supplemental line increase associated with the ADU on your tax bill, just not an overall property reassessment.
10. What is the value of a back yard plan?
How this new structure fits into the aesthetic of your property is important. Making sure you make a good use of space and consider visual appeal in your planning.
11. What are our service areas?
Areas we serve are Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego Counties.