TYPES of ADUs

house graphics courtesy of hausable

No matter what you call accessory dwelling units (ADUs) - aka granny flats, in-law units, secondary suites, cottages, or backyard bungalows, they are an affordable, effective way to create more space and housing.

Backyard-Bungalows specializes in building the following types of ADUs:

• ​Detached ADU: a stand-alone structure of at least 150 sq ft, apart from the primary house. 
• Attached ADU: a space of at least 150 sq ft adjacent/connected to the primary house, such as a converted garage.
• ADU for your own use (not a rental): no minimum size/features; customizable beyond the Basic Shell:
  • Basic Shell: often used as an exercise or art studio
  • Sleeping loft or bedroom
  • Kitchen
  • Bathroom​

ADUs can be constructed to be any size (within your local building code limits), but the most common ADU footprints are:

• 10' x 12' - for own use; no permit required
• 10' x 15' - minimum size for legal rental
• 12' x 16'
• 16' x 20'​
• 18' x 18'

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Why rent out your ADU?
With the severe housing shortage in the SF Bay Area, both the state and the county have passed regulations making it easier, and sometimes less expensive, to develop rental ADUs on single-home properties.

Building an ADU that meets your state and town's ADU building codes means that:

1. Your parking and utility requirements will likely be less.
2. Your approval process may be faster.
3. You may be eligible for building fee waivers.
4. You may be eligible for tax credits.​

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To learn more about accessing the benefits above, see our Services.
​Not sure which type of ADU is right for your property? Schedule a free phone consultation.