As the housing situation in California deepens, an increasing number of people are seeking methods to establish auxiliary dwelling units (ADUs) on their land. After all, an ADU can provide much-needed extra income or accommodation for elderly parents or adult children. But what if your homeowners’ association (HOA) learns about your plans? Can they prevent you from constructing an ADU?
Homeowners Associations in California
This question does not have a simple yes or no answer. Although HOAs have the authority to restrict the sort of development permitted in their community, they are subject to state and municipal legislation. A variety of California statutes safeguard homeowners’ rights to construct ADUs.
Assembly Bill 2215 of 2016, for example, forbids HOAs from imposing unjustifiable restrictions on homeowners’ rights to develop ADUs on their land. Furthermore, Senate Law 13, generally known as the Accessory Dwelling Unit law, was passed in 2017, making it easier for homeowners to get the necessary licenses to construct an ADU. Finally, Assembly Bill 2406, approved in 2018, mandates HOAs to allow the construction of ADUs up to 1200 square feet in size.
ADUs Are Becoming Increasingly Popular
ADUs are modest dwellings that share the same property as the main house. These apartments are growing in popularity in California, where rising housing costs and a scarcity of land have generated a need for more inexpensive living options. One of the primary advantages of ADUs is that they may be utilized as long-term rentals, allowing homeowners to defer mortgage payments.
Because ADUs are typically positioned at the back of houses or on smaller lots with no existing units, they only sometimes necessitate new construction or significant changes. As a result, they may be a sensible and cost-effective solution for homeowners in high-priced real estate locales. An ADU might help you raise your rental revenue or make your property more competitive in today’s challenging housing market. However, you must first comprehend the construction procedure.
The Construction Procedure
ADU construction can be a challenging and time-consuming operation. To begin, you must research a number of key elements, such as local legislation, zoning restrictions, and the services provided by your preferred builder. When you engage with an experienced ADU builder, such as Acton ADU, you can work directly with their team to ensure that your ADU is both functional and physically appealing. Their design experts will collaborate with you to create a one-of-a-kind building plan that complements your current residence.
Because of their experience and enthusiasm for great craftsmanship, they can assure the longevity of your new ADU. Acton ADU can help you realize your idea for a beautiful and efficient ADU, whether you desire a basic and minimalist design or an exciting addition to the living space of your house. Visit www.actonadu.com for additional information about their approaches.
What ADU Construction Restrictions Can a California HOA Impose?
In California, a homeowner’s association (HOA) may impose a variety of limitations on the construction of an ADU. They may, for example, set minimum and maximum lot sizes or ban the use of certain construction materials. In addition, HOAs may impose restrictions on the activities and behaviors permitted on the property, such as noise levels or the presence of pets.
Homeowners, on the other hand, have several alternatives for circumventing these limits. They may, for example, bargain with their HOA to get approval for the proposed ADU project. They may also choose to consult with an attorney who specializes in HOA law in order to contest any property boundaries. California homeowners that are proactive in communicating with their HOA may be able to overcome any obstacles that may emerge while creating an ADU.
Determining If Your HOA Will Allow You to Construct an ADU
The first step in discovering if you may construct an ADU on your property is to contact your housing association. Before you begin creating designs:
- Make certain that the HOA laws in your chosen area permit the construction of an ADU.
- To learn more about the restrictions imposed by your HOA, visit its website or speak with a representative in person.
- Consult an ADU-educated real estate agent for information on local zoning rules as well as a list of contractors with expertise in building secondary structures such as ADUs.
Researching and preparing for an ADU will assist in guaranteeing that you have the flexibility and resources necessary to build a place that suits your needs while also complimenting the surroundings of your property. As a result, if you are serious about determining if an ADU is a realistic choice, you should begin as soon as possible.
Working With Your HOA to Get ADU Approval
It is vital to work closely with your HOA to secure the appropriate permissions while planning to build an ADU in Redwood City, CA. Here are some hints to assist you in successfully navigate this operation:
- Communicate with your HOA in an open and honest manner. The more open and explicit you are about your objectives, the simpler it will be for others to comprehend what you’re attempting to do. This raises the likelihood of their expressing acceptance and support.
- Investigate all applicable planning and zoning rules thoroughly. Your HOA will almost certainly have criteria or limits that must be satisfied in order for your project to be authorized; as a result, it is vital that you get acquainted with these guidelines before beginning the process. You should also seek the advice of a professional architect or builder who can assist you in creating an ADU that fits all specifications.
- Examine whether your initial assumptions are reasonable. It is vital to remain committed to a certain design or concept prior to getting HOA approval since this may impede your ability to work closely and successfully with them during the application process. You will be more likely to establish common ground and create a good relationship with your business if you have an open mind.
Final Thoughts
Even if they aren’t delighted with the idea, your HOA is unlikely to be able to stop you from building an ADU if you follow all of the necessary requirements. A variety of California statutes safeguard homeowners’ rights to construct ADUs. You should be able to carry out your plans without interference from your HOA as long as you follow these regulations.
