An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent residential dwelling located on the same lot as a stand-alone (detached) single-family home. ADUs go by many different names throughout the country, such as granny flats, in-law suites, backyard cottages, or secondary units. The term “ADU” encompasses all these types of independent living spaces.

ADUs are complete living spaces, with their own kitchen, bedroom(s), bathroom, and living area. They have separate entrances and addresses from the main home. Many ADUs are converted outbuildings, like garages or carriage houses. Others are new constructions or additions to the existing home. Either way, they function as fully independent rental units or housing for relatives.

Benefits of Building an ADU

ADUs offer many benefits both for homeowners and communities:

Extra Income Adding an ADU to your property creates a new income stream through rental income. Since ADUs share the lot with an existing home, they tend to rent for 20-50% lower than comparable apartments in other multifamily buildings. This makes them appealing and affordable rentals. The rental income can offset housing costs or supplement retirement income.

Housing for Family An ADU provides flexible space for family members who want to live nearby but have their own unit, like adult children, aging parents, or relatives needing care. The proximity makes ADU living more affordable than regular rentals or assisted living arrangements.

Mortgage Helper Since most areas allow short-term ADU rentals, homeowners can use the unit as a short-term rental when not occupied by family. Popular vacation rental platforms make this easy. Earning income through Airbnb, VRBO and the like functions as an interest-free mortgage helper.

Environmentally Friendly ADUs utilize existing infrastructure and space in established neighborhoods. This promotes compact development and results in fewer carbon emissions from driving and new construction. Orienting ADUs properly can also improve solar gain and energy efficiency on your lot.

Retirement Living Many homeowners choose to downsize into an ADU on their own property when they retire. This allows them to comfortably age in place within a familiar community. Gaining rental income from the main home also appeals to retirees needing fixed payments.

Community Housing ADUs expand the overall housing supply without drastically changing neighborhood character. Creating more diverse housing for people of all ages and incomes is a priority for California cities. Adding gentle density with ADUs supports sustainable growth and welcomes residents who would otherwise get priced out.

ADU Regulations in Compton

Here are some key facts about ADU laws in the city of Compton:

• Both attached and detached ADUs are allowed with proper permitting.
• There is no minimum lot size to build an ADU. Even smaller properties can accommodate one.
• The maximum size depends on the existing main home. Attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the floor area. Detached ADUs can reach 800 square feet.
• Setbacks must comply with standards for the zoning district. Generally 5-10 feet side and rear setbacks apply.
• ADUs are allowed two bedrooms maximum. Local occupancy limits prevent overcrowding.
• Short-term rentals for periods of 30 days or less are permitted with an ADU. Using the unit as a vacation rental provides added income.

Compton has recognized the severe need for more housing options across income levels. Relaxing zoning codes to encourage ADUs promotes affordable housing without drastic redevelopment. The city continues to refine ADU policies to streamline permitting and compliance for property owners. As demand grows, Compton tries to remove barriers to building secondary dwellings.

The ADU Permitting Process

Gaining city approval for an ADU involves several key steps:

Initial Evaluation First, determine if your property qualifies for an ADU. Evaluate setback requirements, lot coverage, and existing buildings to see if space allows another unit. Identify potential locations, taking orientation and access into account.

Design Create preliminary designs that adhere to size maximums, height limits, and appearance standards. Consider how the ADU coordinates with or complements your main home’s architecture. Design an adaptable layout suited to a rental unit or family housing.

Permit Application Work with city planners to submit a complete ADU application, including precise plans, drawings and specs. Pay close attention to details like facade materials, finishes, lighting, and windows to get design approval upfront.

Feasibility Check The city reviews property lines, drainage, easements, trees, and utilities to identity potential issues. Revise designs if needed to ensure the ADU won’t disrupt or damage infrastructure.

Final Approval
After confirming all standards are met, the city issues building permits. Construction can only begin after getting this final approval. Renting out the unit also requires passing inspections to get a certificate of occupancy.

Compton aims to facilitate more ADUs that enhance housing diversity without major disruptions. Aligning projects with planning goals makes approval achievable with proper permit submissions.

ADU Design Possibilities

ADUs allow flexible arrangements tailored to your needs. Here are some of the layout options possible:

Garage Conversion The most cost-effective ADU route is transforming an existing detached garage using the existing footprint and roof. Installing a small kitchen and bathroom transforms the storage space into a rental suite or guest house.

Tiny Home Different rules apply based on size and features, but in general, adding a tiny freestanding home under 400 square feet simplifies permitting. Tiny ADUs work well for compact living spaces or home offices.

Backyard Cottage Constructing a new standalone ADU building in your backyard takes more effort but allows custom designs matching main home styles. Think carriage houses, guest cottages, pool houses, or artist studios.

**Basement Apartment ** Whether finished or unfinished, transforming a portion of your home’s basement into an independent unit can add living area for family or income potential. Kitchenette and bath additions create flexible spaces.

With smart design and strategic placement tailored to your goals, an ADU adds value to any Compton property.

Getting Professional Support

Trying to navigate Compton’s ADU process alone can prove challenging. Seeking professional help streamlines the permitting and construction process. Here’s where working with Surfside can help:

Simplified Permitting Our team maintains open communication with Compton’s planning office to stay current on ADU requirements. We incorporate the most up-to-date standards into proposed designs upfront to prevent issues.

Expert Guidance We understand city expectations and design considerations to seamlessly gain approval. You get expert support addressing feasibility, restrictions, zoning codes and building needs from the initial stages.

Quality Construction Our firm has deep expertise building ADUs throughout Southern California. We oversee the full construction process to deliver compliant, durable structures enhancing your property value.

Adding an ADU takes the right mix of technical capability, construction excellence, and local knowledge. Surfside Builders leverages decades of experience to capably tackle ADUs from permit to completion. We’re here to help your Compton project succeed!