If you have always wanted to add an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your Mission Viejo property, there’s good news! Recently, the State of California established statewide guidelines that removed many of the barriers that could keep Mission Viejo homeowners from building ADUs on their properties—even in HOAs. In other words, there are now far fewer restrictions and fees for homeowners wanting to add an additional unit to their properties, and the approval process has been streamlined. The State of California enacted the legislation regarding ADUs in an attempt to increase the number of affordable housing units in the state.
What Is an ADU?
An ADU is basically an independent residential unit, sometimes called a “granny flat” or “mother-in-law unit,” that is on the same lot as a single-family home. ADUs typically have a sleeping area, a full kitchen, and a bathroom.
An ADU can be used for a variety of purposes. Some people use them to house aging family members who still want their independence, but who need to be nearby family, or to give their young adult children an affordable place to live as they start their careers. Other homeowners in Mission Viejo use their ADU as guest housing or as a rental unit to bring in some extra income.
What Should Be Included in a Mission Viejo ADU?
Not every ADU should be the same. It should be customized according to your needs and the needs of those who will be staying in it.
For example, if it will be used for an elderly family member, you will want to consider features like wider-than-standard hallways and roll-in showers. If it will be used strictly as a guest house, a studio-type space might be all you need. You won’t need a lot of storage space, and you may not even need a fully equipped kitchen. If it will be a rental unit, your renter’s privacy (as well as your privacy) should be a concern. When you work with Scott McKee Construction for your ADU, we can help you with the ADU’s design, as well as its construction. We can talk you through all the options and come up with a design that will meet all of your needs.
We can also help you design and build an ADU for your Mission Viejo property that will complement the style of your primary residence. You want your ADU to look like it was always a part of the property—and not like an obvious add-on. We can help with exterior design—including the selection of materials and paint colors. Of course, if you prefer to work with an architect on the design of your ADU, we can work with your architect to ensure that their plans are properly executed.
Even though many of the restrictions on ADUs have been eliminated, an ADU in Mission Viejo still has to be permitted. As your general contractor, we will make sure that all the proper approvals are acquired and that it passes all inspections.
If you would like to talk to an experienced general contractor that is familiar with designing and building ADUs in Mission Viejo, contact us at Scott McKee Construction. We would be happy to meet with you to learn about your project and to discuss how we can help.
