Our Guide To Constructing Granny Flats In LA - Overland Remodeling
Deciding to add a granny flat to your home in LA is a smart choice if you want to expand your living space for a family member, add property value, and get potential rental income.
Granny flats are also known as accessory dwelling units and are a self-contained unit on your home's plot.
Whether you're thinking about constructing a detached unit or converting your garage into a granny flat, we’ve done many ADU projects in LA at Overland Remodeling.
Our guide will discuss the ins and outs of planning a granny flat ADU and the costs involved below.
Why Is It Called a Granny Flat
The name granny flat is used traditionally since most separate living spaces are often built to accommodate grandparents near main homes.
Nowadays, ADUs are used for all reasons, whether it be as a rental unit for extra income or as home offices and studios.
These private self-contained units are ideal for multi-generational living since they are close in proximity but still offer independence. Granny flats are known as guest houses, backyard cottages, secondary units, and other names.
Do You Need Planning Permission For a Granny Flat In LA
The California law allows for accessory dwelling units to be built easily thanks to the legislation released in 2019 due to the housing shortage crisis. You don’t need full planning permission to build a granny flat, but you need to get permits and follow local zoning regulations.
Your granny flat must comply with the height and setback rules and meet fire safety requirements.
At Overland Remodeling, we take care of all the permits and paperwork for you with years of experience building ADUs in LA.
Why Build An Accessory Dwelling Unit/Granny Flat
Granny flats don’t just offer you and your family extra living space, they work great as short-term and long-term rentals and can add great resale value, up to 35% per home.¹
If you have a garage, doing a granny flat garage conversion can save you even more money since the existing structure is there.
Should You Build a Granny Flat or Room Addition?
You could build a room addition for grandparents, but they don’t offer as much comfort and independence as an ADU does. Choosing an independent unit allows you to be more versatile with how you use it since they have more privacy with private entrances and utilities.
How Much Does a Granny Flat Cost To Build In LA?
Granny flats vary in cost according to the type of ADU you are building and its size. For a garage conversion, expect a cost between $80,000 - $150,000+. If you are planning to build a detached unit, then prices can go up to $300,000 since you have to build the structure.
Costs can increase if you use higher-end finishes and materials. It all comes down to your preferences.
How Long Does a Granny Flat Take To Build?
Building an accessory dwelling unit can typically take up to a year or longer, depending on the complexity of the build and the size.
For small units, it could be quicker than a year, but this depends on the schedule of your remodeling contractors. Thanks to legislation in California, the timeline for permits is quicker with ADU designs having to be approved or rejected within 60 days of submitting.
It’s best to allow for delays when building an ADU due to unexpected factors like material lead times or utility upgrades like plumbing, if your septic tank can’t support the ADU.
Work With The Best Granny Flat Builders In LA - Overland Remodeling
Overland Remodeling has over 15 years of experience building granny flats and accessory dwelling units in LA and can help you with every step when it comes to building and designing your space.
We can tailor your ADU to your budget and make energy-efficient units with modern finishes to add value to your home.
Book your free consultation with one of our ADU experts at Overland Remodeling today to discuss your granny flat plans and designs.