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ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Malibu
As people age, many choose to remain in their own homes instead of relocating to a retirement community. For many seniors in California, being in a familiar setting is essential. The challenge is figuring out how to make this work without increasing monthly costs, while still providing the necessary care and enhancing the home's value. This article offers a practical way to achieve this balance.
ADUs provide an excellent way to add safe and customized living spaces to your property. These small homes can be designed to meet the specific needs of older adults, offering an affordable and lasting solution that keeps them close to their community and adaptable for future needs.
Understanding ADUs and their Benefits for Aging in Place in Malibu
What is an ADU?
An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small living space built on the same lot as your main house. It can be a detached unit, an extension of the main home, or even a converted space like a garage. With features like a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, ADUs are ideal for those who want to live independently but remain close to their family.
Benefits of ADUs for Aging in Place
Designed for Comfort and Safety
ADUs can be specially designed to meet the needs of older adults, featuring things like single-story layouts, wider doorways, and slip-resistant floors. These adjustments make the space safer and more accessible, helping seniors stay independent while minimizing the risk of falls.
Flexible for the Future
ADUs are versatile and can be used by family members or caregivers. If they’re no longer needed for senior living, they can be rented out, making them a practical, long-term investment that adapts as your family's needs change.
Affordable Living Option
Building an ADU can be a more budget-friendly choice than moving to a senior living facility. It also allows multiple generations to live together, saving money on housing costs.
Close to Family and Support
For many seniors, moving away from their homes can be tough. With an ADU on the same property, they can maintain their independence while staying close enough to family for support, comfort, and companionship, creating a caring and supportive atmosphere.
Not sure which ADU option is right for you or your property?
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How to improve the property to fit your elderly parent?
As people age, staying connected with others becomes even more important. Losing friends or family or having fewer opportunities to socialize can lead to loneliness, which can impact both mental and physical health. When creating or modifying an ADU for your elderly parent, it’s key to think about their physical needs while also ensuring they have opportunities to stay socially engaged.
An ADU offers a private living space with its entrance, but since it’s located on the same property as the main house, family members can easily visit and help out. To prevent loneliness, consider adding cozy spaces like a comfortable living room or a small dining area for family meals. Outdoor areas, such as a porch or garden, provide a peaceful spot where your parent can meet neighbors or simply relax outside.
Don’t forget about your parent’s mobility. Adding things like ramps, good lighting, and easily accessible seating will make it easier for them to move around and interact with others, both inside and outside the house.
Having the ADU close to the main house allows your parent to keep their independence while remaining near family. This balance of privacy, ease of movement, and social opportunities can improve their quality of life.
What are the economics of building an ADU for the aging-in-place scenario?
The good news is that many older couples have already paid off their home, which gives them more flexibility financially. If this applies to you, you could use a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to cover the cost of building an ADU. After the ADU is built and your parents move in, you could rent out the main house to help cover the payments on the HELOC. The key is ensuring the rent from the main house is enough to cover those payments. While it might sound a bit tricky, you can use this example to figure out your costs and potential income.
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 Malibu is $520,632. A loan that has a 6.5% interest rate, requires a monthly payment of $3,291. 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 Malibu
Where can ADUs be built?
ADUs can be built in areas designated for residential or mixed-use zones.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a single-family zone?
In Malibu, the largest ADU size allowed in a single-family zone is 1,200 square feet and can be up to 16 feet tall.
What is the maximum size and height of an ADU in a multi-family zone?
In Malibu’s multi-family zone, the maximum size for an ADU is also 1,200 square feet and a height of 16 feet.
What is the minimum setback for an ADU?
The minimum setback for an ADU in Malibu is 4 feet.
What are the safety regulations for an ADU?
ADUs only need fire sprinklers if the main house requires them as well.
Is independent access from the main house required?
Yes, the ADU should have a separate entrance.
What should be considered when designing an ADU for seniors?
When designing an ADU for seniors, it may need features like ramps, handrails, or a flat entryway. You may also need extra permits to meet accessibility requirements.
Can you use a mobile structure as an ADU?
No, mobile homes are not allowed as ADUs because they lack a permanent foundation. ADUs should be built on a solid foundation and meet California’s building codes.
How fast can you build an ADU?
Building an ADU typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on factors like permits, design, and construction.
What are the rules for ADU ownership in Malibu?
Is the property owner required to live in the main house?
No. As of January 1, 2020, state laws no longer require the property owner to live in the main house or ADU. This rule is in effect until December 31, 2024, and can't be applied retroactively to ADUs approved during this period.
What are the rental regulations for an ADU?
ADUs should be rented for periods longer than 30 days.
What permits are needed for an ADU?
To build or convert an ADU, you will need a building permit, which covers approval for construction, plumbing, electrical work, and other essential services.
Resources and Where to Start in Malibu
To get started, Malibu residents can reach out to the Malibu City Planning Department for ADU guidelines and zoning details.