Introduction
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Los Angeles is no easy task. It involves navigating through complex issues such as zoning restrictions, planning requirements, sanitation, utility connections and upgrades. Therefore, who better to answer your questions about building an ADU than your neighbors who have already gone through the process? In this final edition of You Do ADU, we’ve compiled advice from those who have successfully built ADUs to help demystify the process.
Planning
When starting, it is important to make a wish list and decide how you plan to use the space. Will it be for rent, a home office, a guest room, a yoga studio, a home for aging parents or a small home business?
Architect Bo Sundius advises that you don’t just place the ADU wherever you find space, but consider locating it at least 10 feet from the property line to allow for a courtyard. Also, consider using plants to create a screen between the ADU and other homes to provide privacy.
Homeowner and designer Samantha Karim suggests that placement isn’t the only important consideration; you also need to consider the intended use of the space.
Related Facts:
– ADUs can be used for disabled adult children, aging parents, guests, tenants and those working from home.
– Building an ADU is a complex process that involves strategic planning, expert advice, permits and construction.
– The cost of building an ADU varies, depending on the size, location, style and intended use.
Challenges
Despite its tiny footprint, constructing an ADU can be as complex as building a new house. “Smaller is not necessarily cheaper,” advises architect Cameron McNall. There are so many fixed costs that it doesn’t matter if it’s 500 or 2,000 square feet. In fact, smaller can be more expensive.
Architect John Bertram advises that converting a garage into an ADU can present numerous challenges because the existing structure was never designed to be habitable. “In many cases, the fact that a structure is already present does not translate into significant cost savings.”
Key Takeaway
Building an ADU in Los Angeles is a complex and expensive process that requires expert advice and strategic planning. It is important to make a wish list and decide how you plan to use the space, consider the placement of the ADU and use plants as a screen between the ADU and other homes to provide privacy.
Conclusion
Building an ADU in Los Angeles is a significant investment that requires careful planning and expert advice. By seeking help from neighbors who have already gone through the process, you can better understand the complexities of ADUs, and make informed decisions about your project. Remember, take your time, do your research, and consult experts to ensure a successful outcome.
