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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Compton
For many older adults in California, staying in their own homes and communities is important for comfort and independence, rather than moving to a senior living facility. The challenge is figuring out how to maintain this comfort without adding extra monthly expenses, while still getting the support they need and even possibly boosting the home's value. This article offers a simple solution to achieve this.
Building an ADU, which is a small living area on your property, is a great way to add extra space. It provides an affordable option for older adults to stay close to family while keeping their independence. If things change later, the space can easily be used for different purposes.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Compton
What is an ADU?
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small living area built on the same property as a main home or apartment. Often referred to as granny flats or in-law suites, these units come with essential features for living, such as a place to sleep, cook, and clean. They can be built as attached, detached, or by converting an existing space.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Staying Close to Family: ADUs give older adults the chance to live nearby while having their own space, with family close by to offer help if needed.
Cost-Effective Option: Building an ADU is often less expensive than moving to a retirement community, allowing families to stay close without the high costs.
Senior-Friendly Design: ADUs can be designed with accessible features like wider doors, single-level layouts, and non-slip floors to make them safer for those with mobility issues.
Adaptable for the Future: If the ADU is no longer needed for a senior, it can be repurposed for other uses, such as renting it out or providing a home for other family members.
Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?
Cali ADU Design + Build
How to improve the property to fit your elderly parent?
When creating a living space for an elderly parent, especially one with memory challenges, it’s important to make the area feel secure, comfortable, and easy to navigate. Small changes, like labeling things or rearranging furniture, can help them move around more easily and confidently.
A simple, single-level ADU with a bedroom, bathroom, and a small sitting area is a great choice. Make sure the space is well-lit, include handrails where needed, and select furniture with rounded edges to avoid accidents. In the kitchen, using open shelves or clear cabinets can help your parent find things more easily.
To boost safety, consider adding smart technology like motion-sensing lights or alert systems that can notify you if something goes wrong. This way, your parent can live independently while you have peace of mind knowing they are safe and close by.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
Many older couples have already paid off their mortgages, which can work in your favor. If this is your situation, you could consider a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to cover ADU construction costs. Once the ADU is finished and your parents or relatives move in, you could rent out the main house to help pay back the HELOC. The key factor is ensuring the rental income from the main house is enough to cover the HELOC payments. Although it may seem complex, using a simple example can help you see how the numbers might work.
Let's consider that your parents would be happy to live in a 2 bedroom with 2 bath ADU. The size for such an ADU is approx. 1,200 sq. ft. The cost of a 1,200 sq. ft. ADU in Compton is $522,240. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,300. Ideally, you could rent the main house with at least the same amount as your payments for the HELOC. This way you'll break even on your monthly expenses, while you're having someone keeping an eye on your parents and increasing the value of this property.
Besides providing the right living spaces for your parents at potentially break-even costs per month, this ADU could add around $960,000 to the property’s market value if you decide to sell.
ADUs can increase the value of your property. Learn how much they could add.
ADU design restrictions in Compton
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be constructed on properties zoned for single-family or multi-family housing.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In Compton, ADUs in single-family areas can be up to 1,000 square feet. The height of the ADU should match that of the main house. If the ADU is built over a garage, it can reach up to 30 feet tall. Detached ADUs have a height limit of 16 feet.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
In Compton’s multi-family zones, the size limit is also 1,000 square feet. The height should match the main building, with ADUs built over garages reaching up to 30 feet tall. Detached units have a height limit of 16 feet.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Compton is 4 feet from the property lines.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
If the main house or any proposed multi-family structure has fire sprinklers, the ADU should have them as well.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, the ADU should have a separate entrance that cannot be visible from the street. The entrance should be located on the side or back of the ADU.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
When designing for seniors, it's important to include features like ramps, handrails, and wider doorways for easier access. Some of these changes might need special permits.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes cannot be used as ADUs because they aren’t fixed to the ground. ADUs should be built on a permanent foundation according to California's building standards.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Building an ADU typically takes about 3 to 6 months, depending on factors such as permits, design, and construction conditions.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Compton?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
The Compton Municipal Code does not specify if the property owner should live in the main house.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
The ADU cannot be rented out for less than 30 days.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
Building an ADU requires a building and ADU permit. The city should review and respond to the application within 60 days or by any other deadline specified by state law. Once a decision is made, the applicant will be notified by mail. The decision made by the Community Development Director is final.
Resources and Where to Start in Compton
To get started, Compton residents can reach out to the Compton City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.
ADU Analysis shows the maximum ADU size for the best return on your property.
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