Breaking Down The Facts About Accessory Dwelling Units

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are becoming a popular housing option in cities like Nanaimo. They’re small, self-contained living spaces that are typically located on the same property as a larger, primary home. You might have heard them called granny suites, backyard cottages, or even coach houses. In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about accessory dwelling units in Nanaimo, from their benefits to the regulations that come with them.

WHAT IS AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT?

An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary housing unit on a residential property. These units can be attached or detached from the main house and are usually smaller than the primary dwelling. An ADU often has its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, which makes it an independent living space. Whether you want to add more space for family, rent it out for extra income, or even offer affordable housing to those in need, an ADU can be a great option.

THE BENEFITS OF ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS IN NANAIMO

If you’re thinking about building an accessory dwelling unit, there are a few key reasons why it might be a good idea:

Extra Income: Renting out your ADU can bring in a steady stream of passive income. Whether you're looking to rent to long-term tenants or offer short-term rentals, having an ADU provides flexibility in how you use the space. This can help offset your mortgage payments or fund other projects.

Affordable Housing: Nanaimo, like many other cities, is experiencing a housing shortage. An ADU provides affordable housing options for individuals or families, which can be a huge benefit to the community. It’s a great way to add more living space without having to develop larger properties, which can be expensive and take up more land.

Multi-Generational Living: For families with aging parents or adult children who still live at home, an ADU is a perfect solution. You get to keep your loved ones close while maintaining privacy and space. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!

Flexibility in Design: ADUs come in all shapes and sizes, so you can get creative with the design. Whether you want a small studio or a more spacious one-bedroom unit, you can customize the space to fit your needs. Plus, many ADUs can be designed to blend seamlessly with the existing structure on your property.

WHAT ARE THE REGULATIONS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS IN NANAIMO?

Before you start building your dream ADU, it’s important to know the regulations that apply in Nanaimo. Local bylaws and zoning codes are in place to ensure that accessory dwelling units are safe, well-built, and don’t disrupt the neighborhood. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

Zoning Requirements: Not all properties in Nanaimo are zoned for ADUs. To find out if you can build one on your property, check the zoning of your land. Certain areas may allow ADUs as part of the official plan, while others might not.

Building Codes: Like any construction project, an ADU must meet certain building codes to ensure safety. This includes everything from structural requirements to plumbing and electrical standards. Hiring a qualified contractor can help you navigate these codes and ensure everything is up to code.

Size and Height Limits: There are restrictions on the size and height of ADUs in Nanaimo. For example, detached units typically cannot exceed a certain square footage, and there may be height limits to ensure they don’t overshadow neighboring homes. These limits can vary depending on the zoning district, so it’s important to do your research.

Parking Requirements: Depending on your property and the local bylaws, you may need to provide additional parking for your ADU. This is especially important if you’re renting it out to tenants. Check with the City of Nanaimo to find out if you need to create extra parking spaces for your new unit.

Permits and Approvals: Before you start building, you’ll need to obtain the proper permits and approvals from the City of Nanaimo. This might include a building permit, electrical permit, and plumbing permit. The approval process can take time, so be prepared to wait a few weeks or even months to get everything in place.

COST OF BUILDING AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT

The cost of building an ADU in Nanaimo can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the size of the unit, materials used, and whether you're building it yourself or hiring a contractor. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000 or more for a high-quality, fully functional ADU.

Keep in mind that building an ADU is an investment. If you plan to rent it out, it can provide a return on your investment over time. If you're just looking to create more space for family or guests, the value of the property may increase, especially in a market like Nanaimo’s, where demand for housing is high.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOCATION FOR YOUR ADU

Not all backyards are created equal. When planning an ADU, it’s important to consider the best location on your property. You’ll need to think about the layout of your lot, access to utilities, and potential impact on your neighbors.

Privacy: You’ll want to place the ADU somewhere that offers privacy for both you and your future tenants (if applicable). Consider placing it farther away from the main house or behind your property to create a more secluded and peaceful living space.

Access to Utilities: Make sure your ADU will have easy access to the necessary utilities, including water, sewage, electricity, and possibly natural gas. The closer the unit is to your existing infrastructure, the less costly and time-consuming it will be to connect everything.

Outdoor Space: Don’t forget about the outdoor space around your ADU! Consider the view, sunlight, and how much yard space you want to allocate for the unit. A well-planned outdoor space can greatly enhance the livability of the ADU.

CONCLUSION

Accessory dwelling units in Nanaimo are a fantastic way to add value to your property, create more affordable housing, and increase your overall living space. With proper planning, research, and attention to local regulations, building an ADU can be a rewarding project that benefits you and your community. Whether you’re looking to create extra rental income, house family members, or simply make better use of your property, ADUs offer flexible solutions that can meet a wide range of needs.

If you’re considering adding an ADU to your Nanaimo property, be sure to explore the local regulations and consult with professionals to ensure the process goes smoothly. Happy building!