ADU Help Is Here!
What is an ADU?
An ADU is an Accessory Dwelling Unit. Previously they were called "granny units" or "caretaker units". An ADU can be either attached or detached and vary in size depending on your zoning regulations. If an ADU is attached, there must be no internal circulation with the main residence.
Guesthouse Vs. ADU
The main difference between an ADU & Guesthouse is that an ADU has a full kitchen and a Guesthouse is not permitted to have a full kitchen.
With a guesthouse, guests are only permitted to stay a short period, where as an ADU can have a full-time tenant other than family. Also, an ADU, if permitted properly can be used as a B&B rental.
JADU Vs. ADU
A JADU is a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit. These are typically smaller and must be attached to the main residence, with internal circulation to the main residence. There are some cost benefits to building or converting part of a structure to an JADU.
Why are ADU's a big deal now?
ADU's have been a big deal for awhile now due to the ongoing housing crisis, and are even more popular now because of COVID-19. With families working and schooling from home extra space is at a premium.
Also, restrictions on ADU's have been eased back recently by the State of California in an effort to help the housing crisis. For example, in some areas of Monterey County a parcel owner would need a certain amount of acreage to build an ADU. The State has eased back on some of those density restrictions allowing some home owners the opportunity to build an ADU where they previously could not.