The ABCs of ADUs: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an ADU

From ADUniverse: Once you have some initial ideas about what’s possible on your property, you’ll want to think about the design process.

First, consider how you plan to use your ADU. Who will live there? Will you rent it out to a short-term or long-term tenant? Will family members or a caregiver be staying in the ADU? Maybe you’re planning to downsize into the ADU yourself. What type of dwelling would suit these occupants? How much space do they need? How many people are in their household? Are they comfortable using stairs, now and in the future?

Now consider how you want to develop the design. Most people hire an architect, designer, or homebuilder to help them create a design and prepare construction plans. If you engage a professional early in the process, they can also help you think about how the ADU will meet your needs and evaluate the feasibility of your site. Or you can hire them once you have a more complete idea and develop plans to suit it.