Tag: ADU standard plans

Are you willing to have an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)? It’s a great idea to increase the value of a home! In Los Angeles, many homeowners prefer using their garage space in this regard. So, if you have an outdated garage left for years, get it converted into an ADU. But are you aware of the rules and regulations of constructing this unit? Well, as a homeowner, it can be tricky to figure out the permissible height, size limit, etc. Don’t worry! In this blog, we have highlighted a few ADU rules and regulations, which will help you conduct this project smoothly. So, before you hire an ADU contractor, learn these first!

Comply with These Rules and Regulations for Building an ADU

Building an ADU is a great home improvement project. But to get it done, one needs to abide by building codes in their area. Otherwise, the project will be stopped, and the property owner will have to pay the penalty. Hence, to avoid this unwanted situation, it’s imperative to comply with the following ADU rules and regulations.

Size Limit of ADU

In Los Angeles, if you demolish your existing garage, you can build an ADU with the same dimension. And the height would be the same. One can get this unit built on their existing footprint. Whether it’s an attached or detached ADU, the size should be as same as the size of your garage. But if your garage is separated from your home, you can increase 150 square feet of the ADU for accommodation. In this regard, consider visiting the Facebook page of different ADU contractors.

Fire Safety

You need not require fire sprinklers in terms of a garage conversion ADU. If the ADU doesn’t need local fire access requirements, which are less than 150-200 feet from the curb, the local government may require sprinklers. If the ADU walls are within a certain distance from your property line and the main house, the building code will require a fire-related wall. Visit Yelp to know more.

Access

The garage converted ADU must have an exterior entrance separated from the main house. And in this regard, you need not require building a doorway between the main dwelling unit and the ADU. It will actually depend on your requirements. And the rule is the same for a detached Accessory Dwelling Unit. But make sure you deliver this responsibility to the contractor who is well aware of ADU standard plans.

Property Line

In Los Angeles, there are several kinds of ADU you may have witnessed. But whatever the type you want, make sure you have at least four feet of a setback on your unit. And this is what means that it needs at least four feet of space between the property line and the edge of the unit. But in terms of converting a garage, you need not worry about it.

ADU Structure

An Accessory Dwelling Unit must meet certain zoning and building codes for specified usage. One can convert their garage into an office room, study room, bedroom, etc. However, in this regard, you can replace the garage door if required. One can alter the existing roof structure, create a moisture barrier between the flooring and the slab, add windows and door openings, etc. If the foundation needs to be replaced, you can tear down the structure. Visit Pinterest to explore various ADU designs.

We, MDM Custom Remodeling Inc, are well aware of ADU rules and regulations in Los Angeles. By following the latest trends, our experts can transform your outdated garage into a stunning and functional one. So, rely on us and continue reading our other blogs.

Investing in Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is undoubtedly a great approach to increase the value of a property. In Los Angeles, most homeowners prefer converting their old garage space into an ADU. Are you sustaining the same thought? Then don’t wait for more! Hire a reliable ADU contractor to get it done. But as a homeowner, it’s prudent to be aware of ADU standard plans so that you can fully co-operate with your contractor. And keeping this in mind, we have brought out a few guidelines that will help you have a perfect ADU. So, let’s start exploring!

A Few Guidelines for ADU Standard Plans

Converting a garage into an ADU requires careful planning. After all, it’s a commitment of a massive investment! So, have a look at the following points first for ADU standard plans.

  1. Think Why You Want to Build an ADU

First of all, you need to understand why you have taken this decision. Do you want to build a living area for your parents so that they can be close to your grandkids? Or you may want to have a separate room to concentrate your office work. Besides, there are a lot of ways by which you can use this space. So, determine what you want and express your desire to the contractor. In this regard, consider visiting Yelp to get more ideas.

  1. Make a Realistic Budget

Budgeting is one of the most vital aspects of a construction project, including an ADU. Hence, it’s wise to consult with the people in your area, who have recently invested in building an ADU. In addition, you can also conduct thorough research to know the overall cost of it. Then make a realistic budget depending on the information you gather. But never compromise building materials to save cost. You can also visit the Facebook pages of ADU contractors to make a budget.

  1. Educate Yourself about the Building Codes

Do you know about the ADU building codes and permitting process in your area? If not, familiarize yourself with these as early as possible. Otherwise, your project may come to a halt. And be ready to pay a high amount of penalty. And as a homeowner, there is nothing more frustrating than this. Hence, make a deal with an ADU contractor who provides city permit service. And ensure the professional you hire offers a 3D model before starting their work.

  1. Consider Privacy

How you integrate privacy in the ADU actually depends on the future occupants. If it’s for your parents, less privacy can be acceptable in the design. The front door should face the backyard entrance. You can also add window blinds. 

If you are planning to rent this unit, privacy could be a deal-breaker. In this regard, consider adding a back entrance with plenty of shrubberies, which can create seclusion. And while discussing ADU standard plans, don’t forget to ask about space-saving ideas.

  1. Be Aware of Fire Regulations

Fire regulation is also a crucial factor you need to take into consideration. However, it may require a sprinkler system. So, while planning your unit, consult with your local fire department to know the regulations for your area. It’s always better to be safe than regret it later.

  1. Use Existing Utility Connections

When it comes to creating ADU standard plans, the primary thing that people are concerned about is the utility connection. Well, in this regard, you need not require a separate meter. You can draw water from pipes. If you are planning to install a stove, heater, or gas furnace, it’s better to tap into your home gas line. But if your existing septic tank doesn’t have the capacity to handle sewage from the additional bathroom, add an extra one. You can visit Pinterest to see how people in Los Angeles use existing utility connections for their ADU.

We, MDM Custom Remodeling Inc, have earned a reputation as a renowned ADU contractor. We will build a perfect ADU with standard ADU plans. The design we suggest can create a functional ADU. So, deliver this responsibility to us without any hesitation.