An accessory dwelling unit (ADU), also known as a granny flat, in-law suite, or secondary unit, is a smaller, independent residential dwelling located on the same lot as a stand-alone (detached) single-family home. ADUs can be an apartment, guesthouse, or tiny home added to existing residential properties in ways that maintain harmony with the main house design.

ADUs provide complete independent living facilities for one or more persons including provisions for living, sleeping, cooking, and sanitation. An ADU typically has its own entrance, kitchen, bedroom(s), and bathroom facilities. Since an ADU shares utility connections with the main home and does not require paying for new utility connections, they tend to be more affordable to construct than building a new single-family home.

Benefits of Adding an ADU

Constructing an accessory dwelling unit on your property comes with many advantages such as:

• Extra income – The presence of a separate rental unit can provide homeowners with extra monthly rental income which helps pay down the mortgage on the property.
• Multi-generational living – An ADU creates flexible space for relatives or friends to have their own separate living quarters while remaining close to family. This allows adult children, elderly parents, or relatives needing care to live on the same property.
• Home office space – An ADU can also be used as a quiet home office space for remote work away from household distractions.
• Increased property value – Adding an ADU typically increases the resale value of your home because it effectively operates as two properties on one lot.
• Environmental benefits – Accessory dwelling units allow more people to live on existing developed properties, reducing urban sprawl. This promotes sustainable growth as existing infrastructure is utilized.
• Adaptive reuse – Converting portions of existing structures such as basements, garages or accessory buildings into accessory dwelling units is an efficient use of space and materials.

ADU Design Considerations

If you’re interested in adding an ADU on your property in Carson, there are several important factors to consider:

• Zoning Regulations– Be sure to check your local zoning codes to determine ADU requirements for minimum lot sizes, maximum unit sizes, setbacks from property lines, height restrictions, and parking requirements.76262 permits ADUs but they must meet all zoning and building safety standards. Early review of zoning regulations will inform ADU design from the start.
• Types of ADUs– Detached standalone ADU structures require more space on your lot but allow greater design flexibility. Attached ADU additions have less privacy but are easier to construct by expanding existing buildings. Garage conversions make use of existing structures and are the most affordable ADU option.
• Size– Smaller ADUs around 500-800 sq. ft. are easier to permit and construct. Larger units may require more complex engineering and take longer to approve. Optimize floorplans to make the best use of available space.

**• Aesthetics **- Design your ADU addition or conversion to match the architectural style of your main house using similar materials, colors, trims, windows, and landscaping. Harmonious design preserves neighborhood character.

• Privacy– Strategic ADU placement with proper soundproofing prevents noise issues between units. Windows and outdoor spaces should be oriented to maintain privacy between the homes.
• Access– Ensure your ADU has suitable access by adding discreet exterior doors, pathways, and driveways that blend with the existing home.
• Parking– Include sufficient parking for both homes so vehicles do not crowd the street. Detached ADUs can have space for 1 car while attached units sometimes share parking.
• Utilities– Connecting to the existing home’s utility services is most affordable. Upgrading electrical panels or adding separate meters may be needed to handle increased loads.

The ADU Permitting Process

Gaining approval to build an ADU involves researching local regulations, submitting plans to the building department, and obtaining the proper permits. Here is a general overview Carson’s ADU permitting process:

• Verify ADU Requirements – Review Carson zoning codes for ADU rules on sizes, heights, setbacks, and design standards to inform plans.
• Create Plans – Hire an architect or designer to draw up your ADU plans with elevations detailing the exterior appearance. Include floor plans indicating interior room layouts.
• Submit Application – Bring your ADU plans to Carson’s Building and Safety Division to apply for plan check approval and permits.
• Plan Check – The building department reviews plans to ensure compliance with state and local building codes and standards. You may need to make revisions to get plans approved.
• Pay Fees – Fees are assessed for plan check, permits, utilities connections, and other construction impacts. ADU fees range $3000-$5000 in Carson.
• Obtain Permits – Once plans are approved and fees paid, the building permits to start construction are issued. This process takes 1-3 months.
• Schedule Inspections – As work progresses, inspections must be scheduled to verify compliance with approved plans at milestones like plumbing, electrical, and framing completion.
• Finalize Permit – After the final inspection, the building permit can be finalized once your ADU is certified to meet requirements. Now your ADU is ready for occupancy!

Following this permitting process ensures your ADU meets legal requirements before construction. Permitting also protects home buyers from non-permitted work issues. Our team handles permitting to smoothly guide clients through approval.

ADU Construction Services

As experienced specialty ADU contractors, Surfside Builders Group can expertly handle your accessory dwelling unit project from initial planning through to completion. We provide the following services:

• Design Consultation– We offer complimentary consultations to discuss your needs, explore ideas, and tailor ADU solutions to match your home’s aesthetics.
• Planning & Permits– Our experts handle all zoning analysis, design drawings, permitting paperwork, revisions, and approvals to build your ideal legal ADU.
• Construction– We have the expertise to build any custom ADU design – whether a detached addition, converted garage, or basement unit. We handle all required inspections.

**• Project Management **- We closely oversee the construction timeline, budget, subcontractors, custom finishes, inspections, and move-in readiness to deliver your ADU on time.

With Surfside guiding your project, adding an ADU is a smooth, stress-free process. We open the doors to new income potential and flexible living space so you can better enjoy your property.