Home/Resources/What Is an ADU?

What is an ADU? A separate home on the property you already own.

Granny flat, backyard home, carriage house, in-law unit, guest house — all names for an accessory dwelling unit: a self-contained home with its own entrance, living, kitchen and sleeping areas, attached to or detached from the main house.

Detached backyard ADU in Los Angeles

The ADU Movement

Why California is making ADUs easier to build.

Given the low supply and high cost of housing, California enacted legislation that promotes ADU construction and requires cities to make it easier for homeowners to build them. We’re working to advance awareness of ADUs and their long-term benefits to owners and communities.

Use your space to earn
Rental income

Use your space to earn

An ADU, in-law unit or granny flat built in underused yard space can provide ongoing income and long-term capital appreciation.

Be closer to family
Elderly parent

Be closer to family

A new ADU can bring an aging parent close to family while preserving everyone’s privacy.

Jump-start their future
Young adult

Jump-start their future

Give adult children their own space and a chance to save money as they launch their careers.

Housing for the future
Aging in place

Housing for the future

Designed for your future needs, an ADU lets you age comfortably at home — and frees the main house to rent or for family.

Flexible space for visitors
Guest house

Flexible space for visitors

A place for friends and family to stay — and a home office or studio the rest of the time.

The ADU Life Cycle

One home that changes
as your life does.

The versatility of an ADU is one of its greatest benefits.

01

Backyard rental

Income that helps cover the mortgage.

02

Home for parents

Close to family, with privacy for all.

03

Home base for kids

A place to land while they save.

04

Your retirement home

Stay near friends, doctors and community.

Start a Conversation

Your property may have more potential than you think.

Tell us what you’re considering and we’ll prepare a complimentary ADU analysis — what fits on your lot, recommended plans, estimated cost and timeline.

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Serving homeowners throughout Los Angeles and Orange County.