Over the past several years, many concerns have arisen regarding the current housing shortage in California as well as property owners’ rights. As a response to these concerns, legislators have passed new accessory dwelling unit (ADU) laws that make it easier for homeowners to create livable spaces on their property. From being able to include more than one ADU to creating the best possible building plans, here’s what you need to know about maximizing the use of every square inch of your property as you begin planning your ADU addition, brought to you by the pros from Forever Builders, the full home, bath, and kitchen remodel experts Orange County homeowners trust for exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding service.
Understand the Recent Changes in the Law
If you’re wondering if you can legally have two ADUs in California, you’ll likely be happy to hear you can in most instances. According to the recently enacted Assembly Bill 68, you can build multiple ADUs on both single-family and multifamily lots. However, you’ll need to follow a few flexible yet mandatory regulations as you proceed with expanding your property.
Learn How Many ADUs You Can Build
The number of ADUs you can build depends on whether you have a single-family or multifamily property. For instance, most single-family properties can build one attached or detached ADU along with one junior ADU. Multifamily properties can have two detached ADUs along with multiple attached ADUs, provided they fall within specific guidelines regarding usability in the main part of the home.
Discuss the Additional Parameters for Building ADUs
Each type of ADU you include on your property must fit specific size requirements. You may also need to make sure detached ADUs are within a specific distance from the primary residence on your property. ADUs must also conform to specific height requirements that have been expanded under the new laws and regulations. You’ll want to keep in mind that the size of the unit’s floor plan must also fall within specific parameters.
Work with a Knowledgeable Remodeling Contractor
As with most home improvement projects, you’ll need to keep in mind there are many laws and regulations that govern how you include ADUs on your property. For instance, you’ll need to obtain a permit for the build within a specified amount of time. Depending on how you use the ADU, you may also need to make sure the building plans include fire sprinklers, alarm systems, and other essential safety mechanisms.
Since the laws have made it easier to build ADUs, working with a knowledgeable remodeling contractor can help you navigate the local building codes and ordinances that are required to follow the regulations outlined by AB 68. As a final note, remember to select a contractor who makes it a priority to stay on top of the latest changes in the laws regarding property expansions, which makes it possible to utilize your new options to their fullest advantage.
When you’re ready to add an ADU to your home, make sure to hire the best contractors in the business. The team from Forever Builders are the whole home remodel contractors Orange County homeowners can trust to provide the most affordable home remodeling services and ensure their visions become reality. From design to completion, we’ll help you create the home you’ve always wanted, meeting all your expectations while keeping your costs within budget. To find out more about our outstanding remodeling services, give one of our friendly team members a call today at (833) 243-5624.