How Can HOAs Affect California ADU Construction?

With the California housing market in such disarray, an increasing number of people are considering installing auxiliary dwelling units, often known as ADUS, on their own land. A secondary housing unit, for example, can provide both a place to reside and an additional source of revenue for a grieving parent or a dependent loved one. But what if your HOA finds out about it? Can they force you to stop building? Is there a set of regulations or laws that govern the placement of constructions on your property? Your concerns will be soothed as you read, and you will better understand what you can and cannot do with your house.

Understanding California HOAs

To be blunt, there is no simple yes or no answer to this issue. While HOAs have the right to limit the sorts of structures that may be built in their communities, they must nevertheless follow the rules of the states and cities where they are located. Certain laws are in place in California to preserve landowners’ rights to build ADUs.

The 2016 Assembly Bill 2215 prohibits homeowners’ organizations from imposing unjustified restrictions on property owners’ rights to construct ADUs on their property. The Accessory Dwelling Unit Act, commonly known as Senate Bill 13, was passed in 2017 and made the licensing procedure for ADUs built on private property easier. Finally, HOAs must allow the construction of ADUs up to 1200 square feet in size under Assembly Bill 2406, which was enacted in 2018.

ADUs Are Becoming More Popular

ADUs are modest homes with many of the same facilities as the main house. The state of California, where increasing home values and a scarcity of appropriate land has generated a need for more affordable housing options, may be ascribed to increased demand for such units. Long-term ADU leasing enables homeowners to produce income that may be used to help pay off debt.

Because ADUs are frequently positioned at the rear of houses or on smaller lots with no structures, they rarely necessitate new construction or considerable changes. As a result, they may be a wise and cost-effective option for homeowners in expensive real estate markets. An ADU could be the perfect solution to your concerns in today’s tough real estate market. However, before you start, you must first understand how things function.

The Construction Methods Used

Building an ADU is frequently a time-consuming and labor-intensive endeavor. As a first step, research the local legislation and zoning rules, as well as the services provided by the builder you’ve chosen. Hiring a professional ADU building business, such as Acton ADU, allows you to connect directly with the team, ensuring that your ADU is completed according to your specifications. You can count on their designers to assist you in creating a one-of-a-kind building that complements your existing home.

Their skills and talents will ensure the long-term viability of your new ADU. Acton ADU can assist you in achieving your objective of a beautiful and efficient ADU, whether you like a simple and minimalist layout or an exciting addition to your property and living space. Make sure you visit their website to learn more about their activities.

How Do HOAs Regulate ADU Construction?

When it comes to the development of new housing units, homeowners’ associations in California may be severely regulated. Minimum and maximum lot sizes, as well as restrictions on certain construction materials, are also feasible. Some homeowners’ organizations even have restrictions governing how loud parties may be and if pets are permitted.

Homeowners, on the contrary, have many options for getting around these limits. For instance, the homeowner might contact the HOA and request permission to construct the desired ADU. They might also employ an HOA attorney to contest the property limitations. California homeowners who are vigilant and follow the appropriate procedures when working with their HOA may be able to avoid or reduce problems while establishing an ADU.

Finding Out If You Can Build Your ADU

The first step in deciding whether to install an ADU on your property is to get approval from your local housing authority. Before you begin construction:

Check to see if the HOA regulations in your desired neighborhood permit the construction of an ADU.
Visit the HOA’s website or talk to a representative to learn more about the restrictions that apply to you.
Consult an ADU-experienced real estate broker; they may be able to provide information on local zoning rules as well as identify reputable contractors that specialize in the construction of secondary structures such as ADUs.

While studying and designing an ADU, you have the freedom and resources to build a house that suits your needs while also complementing the natural environment of your site. As a result, if you’re genuine about determining if an ADU is a good fit for you, you should start right immediately.

How to Get HOA Permission for an ADU

While planning the construction of an ADU in Dublin, CA, it is critical to work closely with your local HOA. Here is a little advice o help you do this task as fast and efficiently as possible:

In your discussions with the HOA, be as straightforward and honest as possible. The clearer and more upfront you are about your goals, the simpler it will be for others to follow you. As a result, they are more likely to provide you with their approval and acceptance.
Thoroughly research all zoning and planning requirements. Before you begin, be aware of the constraints placed by your HOA since they may have specific criteria or limits that must be met in order for your project to be approved. You should also obtain the advice of an expert architect or contractor to ensure that your ADU complies with local building codes.
You would benefit by determining a reasonable beginning point for your objectives. It is vital to be entirely dedicated to a certain design or concept when gaining HOA authorization since this might impede your ability to work closely and efficiently with them during the application procedure. You’ll have a far higher chance of coming to an agreement with your association and designing a stable relationship with them if you have an open mind.

Last Thoughts

Even if your HOA isn’t really into the idea, they can usually only stop you from building an ADU if you abide by all of the laws. Various regulations are in place in California to preserve landowners’ rights to develop ADUs. If you break the law, your HOA will not accept your ideas. Contact Acton ADU to find out how they may help you design a strategy for your HOA to consider. Because of their deep knowledge of zoning limitations in over 40 California cities, they are certain to assist you.