Navigating ADU Development: FAQs

We’ve compiled a wealth of information based on actual interactions and queries from homeowners like you. At RHE Development, we combine our expertise with hands-on experience to address the real-life complexities of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) development. The questions and answers presented here stem from authentic situations, mirroring the concerns and interests of the homeowners we’ve proudly guided.

Covering everything from ADU basics to intricate design and legal considerations, we’ve tackled a diverse range of cases, leading to successful and advantageous outcomes. Trust in RHE Development to steer you through every aspect of your ADU project with precision and insight. Reach out for a consultation today to explore how you can transform your property, increase its worth, and generate additional income through ADU development.



An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. It can be attached, detached, or a conversion of an existing space like a garage.
The maximum size of an ADU depends on local ordinances but generally ranges from 850 to 1,200 square feet. RHE Development will provide guidelines specific to your locality.
Yes, ADUs can be rented out. We can guide you through the rental process and local regulations to ensure compliance.
ADU design is subject to local building codes, which RHE Development will navigate to ensure your ADU meets all necessary criteria.
Constructing an ADU may increase property taxes, but the exact impact varies. We can connect you with tax professionals for detailed advice.
Yes, ADUs are designed for flexibility. We will assess your property to maximize space utilization.
The timeline varies but typically ranges from several months to over a year, depending on complexity and local approval processes.
ADUs generally need separate utilities, which RHE Development will coordinate during the construction process.
Yes, but special considerations and approvals may be required to preserve the district's character.
Financing options include home equity loans, personal loans, and potentially state and local grants or programs.
A JADU is typically contained within the existing home with a maximum size of 500 square feet, while an ADU can be larger and separate from the main residence.
Parking requirements vary by location, especially in relation to public transit access. We will advise based on your specific situation.
With the passage of AB 1033, ADUs may be sold separately if local ordinances permit, a process we can assist with.
Generally, no, but local ordinances may have specific requirements, such as owner-occupancy of one of the units.
An ADU will likely change your property insurance needs. We recommend discussing this with your insurance provider.
This depends on local regulations, which we will help you understand to ensure compliance.
Fees vary by locality and ADU size. Some areas offer incentives or waivers to encourage ADU development.
Typically, ADUs have a separate address or unit number for billing and identification purposes.
The process involves plan submission, review, and permit issuance, which RHE Development will facilitate for you.
Yes, ADUs must comply with California's energy efficiency standards, which we ensure during the design and construction phases.
A JADU is a living space that is no more than 500 square feet in size and is typically contained entirely within an existing single-family residence.
ADUs are smaller, often involve the conversion of existing space within the primary residence, and may share certain facilities like bathrooms with the main home.
Yes, a JADU must include an efficiency kitchen with a sink, cooking facility, and a small fridge.
No, JADUs can share bathroom facilities with the primary residence.
Yes, JADUs are limited to 500 square feet or less.
Most rooms can be converted, but the conversion must comply with state and local building codes.
Yes, a JADU should have its own separate entrance for privacy and accessibility.
JADUs must comply with building codes, but the specific requirements can be less stringent than for ADUs.
Yes, you can rent out a JADU if your local jurisdiction allows it.
Owner-occupancy requirements vary by location, so check with your local jurisdiction.
Adding a JADU may increase your property's assessed value and taxes, but it depends on local assessment practices.
Typically, JADUs cannot be sold separately; they are part of the primary residence property.
JADUs usually do not require additional parking beyond what is required for the primary residence.
Permitting times vary, but laws mandate that local agencies act on JADU permit applications within 60 days.
Yes, there are various loans and financing options available for constructing JADUs.
The use of JADUs for short-term rentals depends on local ordinances.
JADUs typically require connection to water, electricity, and sewer services, which may be shared with the primary residence.
It depends on the existing capacity of your utilities; some upgrades may be necessary.
This depends on local regulations, but it is often possible if space and zoning allow.
Some local governments offer pre-approved plans to streamline the process, or you can work with a company like RHE Development, LLC for customized designs.
A Condo ADU is an Accessory Dwelling Unit that has been legally converted into a condominium, allowing for separate ownership and sale from the primary residence.
AB 1033 allows for the separate sale of ADUs from the primary residence, provided local ordinances permit it. This law facilitates the creation of individual ownership opportunities for ADUs.
The process involves surveying to define unit boundaries, drafting legal condominium documents, and submitting these for official recording. RHE Development, LLC can guide you through each step.
Converting your ADU into a condo can increase property value, provide investment opportunities, and offer more flexibility in property ownership and financing.
Yes, once an ADU is legally converted into a condo, it can be sold separately from the primary residence.
Key documents include the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), Bylaws, Articles of the HOA, and specific Rules & Regulations.
Yes, an HOA is typically formed to manage the common elements and enforce the rules of the condominium.
RHE Development provides surveying, legal expertise, and association management consulting to ensure a smooth transition to a Condo ADU.
Converting to a Condo ADU can provide a separate revenue stream through sale or rental and may increase the overall value of your property.
Each Condo ADU will have its own tax ID, and property taxes will be assessed individually, similar to traditional condominiums.
Yes, separate financing options are available for the construction of Condo ADUs, similar to financing for other types of condominium developments.
This depends on local ordinances and the specific rules set by the HOA. Generally, there are no restrictions beyond those applicable to traditional condos.
A "Tiny HOA" for Condo ADUs typically involves simpler management due to the smaller size and fewer units, but it still requires careful planning and clear rules.
You can sell them separately. The Condo ADU can be retained as an investment property or sold at a different time.
Contact RHE Development, LLC to schedule a consultation, and we will provide you with a detailed roadmap for the conversion process.
You may need to wait until local ordinances are updated to permit the separate sale of ADUs, or you can work with local authorities to advocate for change.
The timeline can vary based on the complexity of the project, local government processing times, and other factors. RHE Development, LLC can provide a more accurate estimate upon assessment.
Yes, existing rental ADUs can be converted into Condo ADUs, subject to legal and regulatory compliance.
It may have implications for your mortgage, so it's essential to consult with your lender and a legal expert before proceeding.
RHE Development, LLC will help ensure that your Condo ADU meets all state and local regulations, as well as HOA requirements.
AB 1033 is part of a comprehensive package of 56 bills aimed at streamlining housing developments, protecting tenants, and maintaining housing affordability across California.
The broader housing package is designed to address California's housing crisis by reducing barriers to housing development and ensuring local communities meet their housing responsibilities. Notably, the enactment of AB 1033 signifies a major step towards promoting more affordable housing in the state. RHE Development, LLC is dedicated to helping homeowners understand and adapt to these legislative changes, offering expertise from initial comprehension to construction and financing management.