Los Angeles residential property owners might benefit from the extra space provided by Junior Accessory Dwelling Units, also known as JADUs. The state of California has adopted laws in Assembly Bill No. 68 and No. 881 that allows homeowners of single-family homes and multifamily structures to construct ADUs and JADUs.
But what’s the difference between these two units and which one is the better choice? Below is an information guide on Junior ADUs in Los Angeles.
What is a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit?
A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a type of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) that can be created in addition to a single-family home or multifamily structure that is no more than 500 feet. These small living units, about the size of a studio or 1-bedroom apartment, must be within the walls or attached to the primary residence.
JADUs can be extremely beneficial to homeowners who would like to convert an existing room into either a rental unit to provide extra income or to create a private living space for a family member. Homeowners in Los Angeles are allowed to have both an ADU and a JADU on their property.
Homeowners can choose to convert an extra bedroom or spare room into a JADU or even an attached garage. Another available option would be creating a room addition to your home and then converting that space to a JADU by adding a separate entrance and kitchen facilities.
Benefits Of Building A JADU
Since the Junior ADU California legislation went into effect in 2020, homeowners have been trying to decide what type of ADU would be best to add additional space to their households.
Homeowners are attracted to constructing junior accessory dwelling units because they offer the opportunity to take advantage of underutilized space and create additional housing options. They can be a great alternative to larger-sized ADUs with fewer requirements to complete and lower development costs.
Additional benefits to building a JADU include:
- It’s an investment that increases your property value
- Can add additional income as a JADU is a legally rentable unit
- Add additional housing for aging family members or newly bound college children
- Add square footage to your home by converting a garage
Junior ADU Requirements in Los Angeles
- Must be built within an existing single-family residence
- Most not be any larger than 500 square feet and a minimum of 220 square feet
- Must have a separate entrance
- Owner occupancy required
- Cant be used for short-term rentals
- No additional parking requirements unless converting an attached garage
- Deed Restriction that prohibits the separate sale of the JADU
A great benefit is that JADUs can share sanitation facilities with the main house, so you will not have to plan on extra costs to construct a new bathroom if you decide one is not needed. The city of Los Angeles also doesn’t require an additional fee for the extra water and sewer connection.
Although, JADUs must meet certain “efficiency kitchen” requirements. This includes:
- Required kitchen sink and small drain line
- Electrical Services requiring less than 240 volts
- Food Preparation counter and storage facilities
- No Gas Appliances
An owner occupancy clause requires the homeowner to live on the property and prohibits the sale of the JADU unit separately from the single-family dwelling. Owner occupancy isn’t required if the owner is a governmental agency, land trust, or housing organization.
The Difference Between ADU and JADU
A JADU is a smaller ADU with fewer requirements and is generally less expensive to construct. A detached ADU can be separated from the main residence while a JADU needs to be attached to the existing primary residence. Below is a comparison of requirements sourced from the California Department of Housing and Community Development.
Los Angeles Junior ADU Builders
At Build Method Construction, we can assist with providing architectural, design, and JADU floor plans. We are a team of licensed, bonded, and insured professional contractors and engineers who are informed on the recent regulations, permit process, and what it takes to ensure a smooth process to complete the construction of your Junior ADU.
If you’re looking to add an additional unit to your house, please reach out with any questions or concerns. Once we understand your requirements and needs we can provide you with estimated costs, proper turnaround times, and what you can expect from your new Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit project.
Final Note
A Jr ADU can be a great opportunity for homeowners and investors looking to gain rental income and create affordable housing options in a state that severely lacks housing. Be sure to speak with your local agency to stay updated with your city and county’s most updated guidelines.
FAQ
Cost of a JADU In Los Angeles
The cost of a JADU will vary on building location, cost of permits, materials used, and architectural plans. Converting an extra room in your house will generally cost less than a garage conversion.
Contact us today for a free consultation and we will provide you with a cost estimate of your envisioned JADU project.
How Long Does It Take To Build A JADU?
The whole process of constructing a JADU takes between three and six months, including designing the architectural plans, waiting for the city to perform a plan check, and finally constructing the building, which will take about two to three months.
Can A Junior ADU Be Detached?
No, the JADU must be located within the walls of a proposed or existing space.