The crisis for living space is already being felt and there are plenty of indicators confirming that in the days ahead it will only escalate. The scenario is completely different from the subprime crisis, which rocked this country a decade and a half ago. This time you must be prepared and explore more possible options to create residential units.
One must realize that this time there is a probability that you will come out unscathed from the crisis. It is because the authorities have eased the laws to convert the garage into living space. That should solve the problem significantly, if you were cramped for living space inside the main building.
The conversion is however not easy and there are legislation to follow. You would be eager for the conversion considering it solves the space crunch and also opens up rental income possibilities. However, the execution is the challenge and we are ready to help out.
At ADU Builders we have been constructing new ADUs and also converting garage spaces. Here, we discuss the detailed process of what it takes to convert the garage into a granny flat.
You must have an idea of the zoning permits and regulations before progressing any further. Whether you get easy permits or not will depend upon what changes you want to incorporate into this space. We can suggest a bit, but only after hearing about what you want to do to this space.
The specific condition of the garage is also important as you intend to transform the space into a cozy mother-in-law suite. There are three issues to be checked here and here are the details for the reader.
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Out-of-code work |
There could be unpermitted work in the garage and there is a probability that the space is old. You have not done any illegal work, but the codes have changed. There is a need to make instant updates before submitting a plan for the conversion. |
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Structural issues |
The garage could have structural issues or water intrusion problems. These issues will have to be handled first before the conversion |
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Utilities |
Are you expanding the area? You might need a bigger dwelling space and the key will be to consider the utility easements. |
These are three checks, which must be conducted on the existing garage and there is a need to make the necessary changes before placing a plan.
There could be some household appliances located here and it could be the AC or the water heater. There is a need to look into these or after the conversion; it will stand out like a sore thumb. There is no way you can wall these items and the suggestion will be to have a closet or a small utility room for them the newly created residential unit.
There will surely be a desire to make sure that the conversion looks like the rest of the home. Hence, the key will be to work out something that will architecturally blend with the rest of the building. These conversions are known to enhance home value, but if there is a mismatch, there will be a down-tick in home value. This is something, which you would desire to avoid and hence the matching is necessary.
Are you uncomfortable with having the car in the driveway and exposing it to the wrath of nature? If so, the alternative here will be to have a carport and that should protect the vehicle from direct exposure to nature.
There will be a need to do interior work in the garage space and this will be the real conversion. There will be a need to do plenty and it can start from raising the floors, if necessary. One could also insist on adding lights, skylights to this place. After the conversion, it will no longer be a garage, and someone will be living here. Hence, there is no harm, if you bring in as much natural light as possible.
Here we have discussed the process to convert the garage into an ADU. It is easier said than done and the project will require expert execution. If you permit we are ready to undertake the necessary conversion of the garage space into an ADU. Book a consultation today.
Structural safety
Adequate lightning
A proper layout to support work
Adequate storage
A detached garage ADU can have its own electrical panel or box meter.
If the existing foundation has suffered intense damages, then you will need to make the necessary upgrades before executing the project. The team allocated for your project will guide you.
