According to census data, multi-generational households in Connecticut increased by almost 5,000 in the 10 years between 2010 and 2020. There are many benefits to living in a multi-generational household, such as saving money and providing family support. If you're thinking about combining households with another family member, you'll need a space where everyone can live. While some homeowners buy a new home with adequate space for everyone, others simply build onto their existing home.
Building an in-law suite on your property can be a great experience when you hire a good contractor and plan a space that serves your family well. There are many ways that you can build an in-law suite on your property. Knowing the pros and cons of options for in-law suites can help you decide which type is right for your family.
The acronym ADU stands for "accessory dwelling unit". An ADU is a small home built on your property, usually in the backyard. ADUs are separate, standalone structures with living space, bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen or kitchenette.
ADUs make excellent in-law suites because they provide peace and privacy to the occupant. They're convenient too, because occupants of the ADU and the primary household can stay close and in contact with each other throughout the day. Not all communities allow ADUs, so if you're interested in building this type of structure on your property, you'll have to research your community's zoning and permitting regulations.
A home addition can be an excellent option for an in-law suite, with a few caveats. Finding privacy can become a challenge when the in-law suite is attached to your home. Providing the occupant of the in-law suite with a separate entrance and exit can help.
If possible, locate the addition away from loud parts of the house. Your design-build contractor can help you make design choices that will help you protect your privacy and the privacy of the suite's occupant.
Some homeowners choose to turn the unused rooms of their house into an in-law suite. Often, this option requires remodeling to give the occupant of the in-law suite their own space. In-law suites should include a bathroom, bedroom, kitchenette, and some living space for lounging and relaxing.
Your contractor can help you design a space that is comfortable and adequate for the needs of the occupant. As with the home addition, you may need to install a separate door to give the suite occupant an entrance and exit to the home.
A converted garage can make an excellent space for an in-law suite, but there's one caveat that can be a challenge: many communities do not permit garages to be turned into separate apartments. Talk to your community's zoning and permitting office to find out if this is allowed, and what changes may need to occur to convert your home's garage.
You may be required to make changes - like building a car port on your property - if you're removing the garage from normal service. If you have a workable plan to move forward with this conversion, talk to a contractor to help you fill out the details.
On small properties without space for an addition or an ADU, finishing the attic or basement to become an in-law suite can be an option. The problem with a finished attic or basement is the stairs. Many older people have or develop mobility problems that can make stairs dangerous. If you're considering a finished attic or basement in-law suite, have a plan in place in case the suite's occupant becomes unable to handle stairs, either permanently or temporarily.
An over-the-garage apartment is a good alternative to a finished attic or basement apartment because over-the-garage spaces can provide more privacy. Although stairs can be a problem for these apartments just as they are for finished basements and attics, this arrangement allows you and the occupant to enjoy more independence and personal space.
Selecting the right home remodel for your in-law suite can be a challenge. Here are some questions to consider as you move forward with this type of project:
One way to make the planning process more fruitful is to have an extensive conversation with your family members, including the future occupant of the suite. Make a plan for life after you're living together. Will you eat meals together? How much time will you spend together? What does the occupant of the suite need to be happy in their home?
An experienced Connecticut contractor can also help you. There are many options for in-law suites and a lot to consider with this type of project. A contractor that has built many in-law suites may have creative solutions to common problems that affect this type of remodel.
Are you planning an in-law suite remodel on your property? Finding the right contractor is an essential step. To get started, download our guide to hiring a contractor in Connecticut. Or, call today to arrange an in-home consultation regarding your potential remodel.