Small Homes
BIG BENEFITS
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
An ADU, often called a guest house or more popularly, a tiny house, is a secondary housing unit with completely independent living facilities such as kitchens and bathrooms. ADUs are known by many names including granny flats, small houses, in-law units, or guest houses. These units are typically constructed in a residential neighborhood adjacent to a primary housing unit on the lot. It is owned by one owner on a single family lot.
Characteristics of an ADU:
- An ADU is adjacent or an accessory to a single family home where both units are part of the same property and owned by one owner.
- An ADU is smaller than the average home in California. A typical ADU ranges anywhere from 450 to 1000 square feet.
- An ADU has different requirements to build than a single family home. Some cities also have specific ordinances around the use of an ADU.
- While designed to be used as a separate residence, an ADU will share a mailing address with the primary residence.
Why Build an ADU
There are many economic, social, and environmental benefits to building an ADU or guest house. Find out why you should consider building an ADU.
Types of ADUs
Deciding between an attached addition or a separate unit is critical to your planning. Read more about the types of ADUs that HDR Remodeling can help you build.
Designing & BUilding an ADU
HDR Remodeling Inc. is proud to be a member of the Berkeley ADU Taskforce. We are here to show you what it takes to design and build an ADU.