Structural Engineering inc.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)
Design, Engineering & Permits
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What is ADU, and Why Has it Become So Popular?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, smaller residential unit built on the same property as a primary single-family or multi-family home. ADUs offer practical and legitimate ways to generate passive income as rental units while adding significant value to residential properties.
An ADU can be constructed as a detached stand-alone structure, as an addition to the main house, or by converting an existing garage to a habitable uni. Garage conversions are often the most straightforward option, as they utilize the existing wood frame of the garage with some alterations to make it a simple habitable space. Making it habitable means bringing this unit up to building codes so they would be in compliance with the standards and regulations each city or county may have to make a building suitable to live in.
What do ADUs need to have to be habitable?
Several factors determine whether a dwelling unit qualifies as a habitable space. Local building departments, such as the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS), establish guidelines to ensure compliance. Requirements such as a dedicated kitchen, a separate entrance, and an independent sewer system ensure the unit functions as a fully self-sufficient living space.
Most importantly, from a structural engineering perspective, the existing structural components must meet specific criteria. For example, the existing foundations may remain if they comply with previous construction standards and are 12 inches deep, while the new slab on grade should be a minimum of 3½ inches thick and reinforced. Regarding framing, existing walls may stay unless dead and live loads exceed specific amounts. Garage door openings must be filled with 2x4 studs, and new wall openings must adhere to LARC regulations, ensuring proper bracing or other requirements to ensure compliance with the city standards and California building codes not only enhances safety but also streamlines the approval process for your ADU project.
The requirements mentioned here are just a few of the many for building an ADU. Given the complexity of the process, consulting with an experienced expert can help ensure feasibility, simplify the project, and expedite city approvals.
What Are Junior ADUs and Why Are They Worth Considering?
Junior ADUs (JADUs) are a more affordable option for adding a rental unit to houses in California. They are cost-effective due to fewer requirements, lower construction costs, and reduced permitting fees compared to standard ADUs. However, JADUs come with certain limitations—they cannot exceed 500 square feet in area and must be built within the footprint of the existing building.
Why Choose AYCO for Your Next ADU Project?
Consulting with a professional is the best way to determine the right approach when building an ADU or JADU, whether you're planning a detached unit, a garage conversion, or a home addition.
AT AYCO, we specialize in helping our clients bring their ADU projects to life by offering comprehensive design, structural engineering, and permit applications. From creating detailed architectural and structural plans to ensuring compliance with local building codes, we guide you through every step of the process.
Our team has great experience designing and engineering accessory dwelling unit (ADU) projects, allowing us to develop customized solutions for various site conditions, main house layouts, and lot configurations. Additionally, we have a strong track record of collaborating with city officials, especially in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas, to navigate the permit application process effectively. Our expertise facilitates streamlined city building and safety department approvals, minimizing delays and simplifying compliance.