The new wave of 2 storey ADU in Los Angeles emerging in Southern California neighborhoods continues to captivate the attention of homeowners and renters alike. However, the construction process has become more attractive as double-deck ADUs have recently gained popularity.
These 2 storey buildings are an excellent method to increase square footage without giving up more outdoor areas. Below, you’ll find all the information you need to get up to speed on the double-decker trend and help you decide if this is the best option. Then, you can contact us our remodeling contractors for more information.
An ADU can have 2 stories in many municipalities in Los Angeles! While California state law does not require local jurisdictions to allow 2 storey ADUs, many cities, including San Diego, Oceanside, Chula Vista, El Cajon, Encinitas, and Escondido, allow ADUs to be 2 storey.
Some still allow you to take advantage of reduced side and rear setbacks, while others will require a 2-storey ADU to stay consistent with the underlying zoning. Also, some cities have specified height limits for ADUs above garages. So now, height regulations vary from city to city.
In general, there are three different ways to get to a double-decked ADU. Here are the details for readers in brief.
| ADU Over Garage (Carriage House) | As you might imagine, an ADU above a garage refers to an ADU built with a garage below it, sometimes called a “carriage house.” The stairway up to the ADU can be outside the structure or inside. For example, a two-car garage can comfortably hold a one-bedroom ADU above. |
| 2 Storey Structure | A 2-storey ADU in Los Angeles is a classic example of a 2-storey living space similar to a 2-storey house. A staircase links both floors, and you can reside in the entire building. |
| Stacked ADUs | With stacked ADUs, the two floors are individual residences that are not internally connected. Typically, an outside stairway will allow you to access the unit above. |
The structure of a 2-storey ADU in Los Angeles is limited only by your budget and imagination. However, you should stay up to date with local regulations and ordinances to determine if your vision is realistic, given your location.
Our contractor can tell you about this, especially if they do a feasibility study. These studies determine if any warnings may come with your builder before construction begins.
In over-garage ADUs, you can add an ADU on top of your existing garage or build an entirely new building with an ADU above and a garage below.
Building an ADU over an existing garage is often more difficult to budget for, as the current condition of your home will affect the construction price. For example, the existing structure may need to be reinforced to support the addition of ADUs.
A 2 storey ADU will vary in price due to the complexity of the construction. In addition, additional materials and labor are needed so that the vertical build price will vary depending on the finishes.
2 storey units require reinforced foundations, stairs, and additional labor and materials to reach and complete upper levels. This is for items like scaffolding for stucco and siding work and for carrying equipment up a flight of stairs. Also, 2 storey units may require larger air-handling units.
Many contractors charge based on square footage when they build an ADU, so it’s crucial to research ADU costs and the price breakdown around the entire design and build process. Or, if you’re considering a 2 storey prefab ADU, be sure to check the total costs.
Like any other ADU, a 2 storey floor plan can vary quite a bit. As mentioned above, the design of your ADU is limited mainly to your budget and imagination.
However, it is essential to take into account the various considerations regarding its location, as well as the fire-related requirements. For example, exterior stairs should not be within 5 feet of a property line.
There is much to consider, and we would be happy to discuss your ADU project further.
Yes, it is possible to construct a 2-storey granny flat in Los Angeles, but only if the existing home is a two-storey.
The rules state the construction should be 10 feet from the main building but five feet inside the boundary walls.
First, check the zoning laws and understand whether you are allowed a double-storey ADU or not.
You need to be educated on the regulations such as lot coverage & size requirements and height restrictions.
Identify a site on the property as the location.
You can then submit the plan to the local City Council
Upon receiving the approval, you can start digging the ground.
It offers optimum space and the home value enhancement is maximum
You can lease one floor to tenants and derive a rental income
You can even use one floor as a home office.
