Everything You Need to Know About Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Atlanta

With rising housing costs in Atlanta, homeowners are looking for ways to earn extra income or accommodate their growing families. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) can be a great solution to both of these issues. But what are ADUs, and how do they work in Atlanta? In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about ADUs, including their size limitations, building codes, and potential rental income.

What are ADUs?
ADUs are secondary units separate from the primary residence on a single-family lot that can be rented to a tenant or used to house family members. ADUs can include full cooking facilities and housing but must meet building codes. However, they cannot be sold separately from the main house and must be restricted to two units per single-family lot, including the ADU. The maximum size allowed for an ADU in Atlanta is 750 square feet, and can be up to two stories high.

Building Codes and Permits for ADU in Atlanta
Building codes must be adhered to when building an ADU in Atlanta, and you will need permits. The size, height, and location of the ADU must meet the zoning requirements for the lot. In Atlanta, ADUs are only allowed on R-5, R-4, and R-4A-zoned lots. In addition, ADUs must meet stormwater management and sanitary sewer pumping requirements.

How much rental income can you expect from your Atlanta ADU?
The monthly rental income for an ADU in Atlanta can range from $550 to $1,000, depending on the number of bedrooms. For a one-bedroom unit, the rental income ranges from $7000 to $950, while a two-bedroom unit ranges from $1,100 to $1,300 per month. In addition to rent, the tenant is responsible for all utilities, which can help offset costs for the homeowner.

How does an ADU affect your property value?
ADUs provide an opportunity to add value to your property. Homeowners can earn additional income from rent, increasing their property value. Furthermore, ADUs count towards a lot's allowable buildable square footage (FAR), which can further increase the property's value.

ADUs versus Guest Houses
Although they may seem similar, ADUs and guest houses differ significantly. Unlike guest houses, ADUs cannot have a built-in stove and must meet zoning requirements and building codes. ADUs count towards a lot's allowable buildable square footage (FAR), while guest houses do not. Additionally, ADUs do not have a lease term limit like guest houses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ADUs provide an excellent opportunity to increase property value and earn additional income. They must be built according to zoning ordinances and building codes and adhere to other building requirements, such as stormwater management and sanitary sewer pumping. Homeowners in Atlanta can seek the assistance of companies like "GATHER ADU" when navigating these requirements. ADUs are an excellent option for homeowners who want to provide separate living spaces for family members or earn additional income from rent. Consider an ADU to add value to your property and provide additional housing options to your community.