Additions and Granny Flats (ADUs)
The state of California has waved building fees for building ADUs which will save the homeowner between $25,000 and $30,000. In addition, the city of San Diego is supplying blueprints that you can download with several floor plans and sizes to choose from that can save you another $6,000 to $8,000. If you’ve been considering starting an ADU project, now’s definitely the time!
Granny Flats or Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become increasingly popular in recent years. They’re also known by names like Granny Pods, Mothers-in-law, Elder Cottages, or Granny Annexes, and they can be an excellent solution for keeping an older relative close-by while also offering them their independence. Of course, they don’t have to be used in this way, and in some cities, they are used as units for rental income or simply as a guest house.
A Few Considerations When Planning for a Granny Flat or ADU
Match The Style Of The Main Home
This is most client’s preference, and it’s recommended to match the style and look of the main property. This isn’t a hard and fast rule and on some properties, it will make sense to deviate from the original style, but we suggest keeping a uniformity to all the buildings on your property.
Place Windows High
Maximizing light is important in these smaller dwellings. Vaulted ceilings can also help increase the spaciousness and allow for higher window placements.
Be Conscious Of Space
Working in a smaller space means approaching the ADU layouts with a different mindset than one would when considering a full house. You generally want to avoid hallways and keep spaces functional. Utilizing pocket and sliding doors as opposed to traditional hinged doors that take up space when left open.
Granny Flat FAQs
What Separates Granny Flats/ADUs From Tiny Houses?
The key difference between Granny Flats/ADUs and tiny houses is that they’re bigger. A tiny house usually combines living areas into the same space, for example, a sitting room, living room, and kitchen all in one space with a lofted bedroom above it. Whereas a Granny Flat or ADU will have a separate room for bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. However, there will be less space for each than in a typical home. Granny Flats are usually between 800 – 1000 feet on average. They can be larger or smaller depending on what a property will allow for. Anything over 1400 feet is creeping up towards the size of a typical home.
Does A Granny Flat/ADU Have To Be Separate From The Main Dwelling?
No, they don’t. In the past, related living setups frequently featured attached ADUs. The key is that while attached to the main home they can also function separately with their own bedroom space, kitchen, laundry, bathrooms, and entrance. There shouldn’t be a need to access the main home if you don’t want to.
Do I Require Any Permits For My Granny Flat/ADU Construction?
Yes, any addition to your property is a major construction project and will require building permits to be considered legal. We will need to get all plans approved by your city. We may also need an encroachment permit, electrical permits, and others that depend on where on the property is located. In California, ADUs are permitted on single-family residential lots, so it’s dependent on city ordinances regarding what specific requirements must also be fulfilled.
Will Granny Flats/ADU Affect The Value Of My Property?
Yes. Adding an ADU, Granny Flat, or guest house onto your property will (in a normal market) increase your assessed property value. We can’t tell you exactly how much value an ADU will add, so we would recommend getting your property re-appraised post-construction.
Our Process
With any new construction, the client’s desires weigh heavily in the design phase. We’re happy to consult with you extensively to ensure you get everything you’re looking for out of your Granny Flat/ADU, whether that’s concerning how to utilize the space on your property, providing customizations for accessibility, or anything else. Our team will take your design and utility preferences into careful consideration and come up with a plan that will best suit your needs and your budget. Our 20 years of contracting experience means we can quickly assess what will be most important for your construction, and we will formulate a plan that is considerate of both your time and cost requirements.
Once you have approved all our design plans, we will streamline the product acquisition and address any necessary permit requirements. You can feel confident that the sometimes intrusive renovation process will be handled with respect and accountability.
Working with Lotta
No matter the size or scope of your addition, Lotta Construction has the expertise and will work with you every step of the way throughout the process. Since we don’t have the overhead like a retail store, we are able to provide the best materials at the most reasonable price. We pride ourselves on our superior workmanship and our 20-year contracting history means you will get the best experience during your major renovations. It’s a Lotta Satisfaction!