An accessory dwelling unit, also known as an ADU, is a popular form of home addition that can expand your living space and make room for extended family members. Multi-generational homes are more common than ever, and ADUs make it possible.
If you're considering building an ADU on your property, it's important to work with a qualified contractor. Having knowledge of the process before getting started, and hiring a contractor with experience building ADUs can make your project a success.
Below, we'll answer some frequently asked questions about ADUs to help get you started. For more information about hiring a Connecticut contractor for your ADU project, download our free guide.
Years ago, ADUs were not allowed in many communities. To address Connecticut's need for affordable housing, many communities have relaxed their rules about ADUs. Many communities now allow homeowners to build an ADU - with restrictions. Often, these limitations state that homeowners may build an ADU for a family member, such as a senior relative or an adult child.
Some communities even allow ADUs to generate rental income if the income is from a family member. Find out the rules for your community by contacting your local zoning office or town hall.
It can take as long as a year or more to design and build an ADU. How long it takes to build your ADU depends on the contractor you hire, the complexity of your design, and other factors.
It's important to hire a good contractor to do the work, but many of the best contractors have full schedules. If you need an ADU to be built in the next year, get started by vetting contractors as soon as possible.
While you can hire an architect to design your ADU, this is unnecessary in most cases. Most ADUs are simple enough to be designed by a design-build contractor.
Design-build contractors offer in-house design services. Hiring a design-build contractor can streamline the design and construction process. If you have complex design needs, your contractor can refer you to an architect to help with your project.
When many people talk about ADUs, they describe them as a separate structure constructed behind the primary home. However, an ADU can also be an attached suite, as long as it has its own entrance and some privacy from the rest of the house.
ADUs have a separate bathroom, living area, and food preparation area. If your addition has these features, it can be considered an ADU.
Building an ADU is a long process and every situation is unique, but most homeowners can follow the steps below to get their ADU project off the ground.
Most communities prevent homeowners from renting their ADU to non-family members. Know the rules for your area before building your ADU. Contact your local city hall or zoning office for more information.
You will need a permit to build an ADU. Getting the work permitted is important because it will ensure your ADU is constructed safely and up to code. If you ever want to sell your home, having permits is essential. Your contractor will help with this.
An ADU can increase your home's value if well-constructed and permitted. Hiring a reliable contractor known for quality work is important. Check your contractor's license and references before hiring a contractor. Be sure that your contractor gets the required permit. If you're wondering how much your home's value will increase, talk to a real estate professional.
Building an ADU takes time. If you hope to have a family member move to your property soon, start the construction process as soon as possible. Start by finding the right contractor. Download our guide to hiring a Connecticut contractor, or contact the professionals at Litchfield Builders to learn more about our design-build process.