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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Inglewood

Elderlies in California often prioritize staying in their homes to maintain independence. As they age, additional support becomes necessary, creating the challenge of meeting these needs without increasing expenses too much. This article highlights an affordable and practical solution that can also enhance property value.

Building an ADU on your property is a smart way to create more living space. These compact units can be designed to make life safer and more convenient for older adults. They offer an affordable, lasting solution that lets seniors stay near their familiar surroundings, with the flexibility to adapt as their needs evolve.

Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Inglewood

What is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a small living space built on the same property as the main house. It could be either built as a detached or attached to the main house, or even created by converting an existing space like a garage. ADUs have everything needed for independent living, including areas for sleeping, cooking, and bathing.

Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place

Affordable Alternative

ADUs provide a less expensive option than moving to a senior living facility. They also let families stay on the same property, cutting the cost of maintaining separate homes.

Customized for Senior Comfort

These units can be designed with ramps, wider doorways, handrails, and slip-resistant floors, making them safer and easier for seniors to navigate.

Staying Close to Family

Living in an ADU allows seniors to stay in their familiar home environment while remaining close to family, reducing the emotional strain of moving away from loved ones.

Flexible for the Future

ADUs can be adapted as needs change. They can house caregivers, provide space for other family members, or even be rented out, making them a long-term, valuable investment.

Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?

Oasis Builders

How do you improve the property to fit your elderly parent?

Making a few simple adjustments to your home can help your aging parent feel more comfortable and safe, especially if they struggle with memory. For instance, labeling common household items or clearing out unnecessary furniture can make it easier for them to find things and move around.

Think about creating a one-level space with a bedroom, bathroom, and cozy seating area. Ensure good lighting, install handrails where necessary, and choose furniture with smooth, rounded edges to avoid injuries. In the kitchen, consider open shelves or clear cabinet doors to help them easily locate items.

For extra safety, you could add motion-sensing lights or set up smart technology to alert you in case of an emergency. These changes will help your parent stay independent while ensuring they are safe and close by.

What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?

For older couples who no longer have a mortgage, taking out a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to build an ADU can be a practical option. After the ADU is finished and the parents move into it, the main house can be rented out. The income from renting the house might be enough to pay off the loan, making it a cost-effective solution. The important part is ensuring the rent from the main house is high enough to cover the loan payments.

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 Inglewood is $519,048. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,281. 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 $600,000 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 Inglewood

Where can ADUs be built?

ADUs can be constructed on properties designated for residential or mixed-use purposes.

What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?

In Inglewood, ADUs on single-family lots can be up to 1,200 square feet and 16 feet tall.

What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?

The size and height limits for ADUs in multi-family areas of Inglewood are the same as those for single-family zones: up to 1,200 square feet and 16 feet tall.

What is the minimum setback for an ADU?

The minimum setback for an ADU in Inglewood is 4 feet from the property lines.

What are the safety regulations for an ADU?

While Inglewood does not specify, generally, if the main house has fire sprinklers, they are also needed in the ADU.

Is independent access from the main house required?

Although not specifically mentioned in Inglewood's code, most cities require ADUs to have their separate entrance from the main house.

What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?

For senior accessibility, it's important to include ramps, handrails, and wider doors. Some of these features may require special permits.

Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?

No, mobile homes cannot be used as ADUs because they don’t have permanent foundations. ADUs should be built on stable, permanent foundations that meet building code requirements.

How fast can you build an ADU?

Building an ADU usually takes about 3 to 6 months, depending on factors like permit approval, design, and site preparation.

What are the rules for ADU ownership in Inglewood?

Is the property owner required to live in the main house?

Inglewood’s rules do not state whether the property owner should live in the main house.

What are the rental regulations for an ADU?

ADUs can only be rented out for periods longer than 30 days.

What permits are needed for an ADU?

To build or convert an ADU, you need a permit. This typically includes a standard building permit for construction and any related plumbing, electrical, or mechanical work.

Resources and Where to Start in Inglewood

To get started, Inglewood residents can reach out to the Inglewood City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.

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