What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
If you have ever noticed a small window and door above a neighbor's garage, or a compact standalone home tucked into someone's backyard, you have likely seen an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). These structures are additional living quarters typically located on single-family lots, operating independently from the primary home on the property.
An ADU can take several forms. It may be an apartment within the main residence, an attached addition, or a fully detached ADU standing on its own on the same lot. Common variations include garage conversions, backyard cottages, carriage houses, and in-law suites — sometimes also referred to as granny flats or Casitas.
A Brief History of ADUs
Accessory dwelling units were a familiar part of American residential development in the early 20th century. Over time, however, their presence faded as single-family suburban development became the dominant model. Municipal zoning codes and land use regulations rarely included ADUs as a permitted use, which effectively pushed them out of most neighborhoods for decades.
That landscape is shifting. Local governments across the country are beginning to recognize the practical value that ADUs bring to communities, and many are updating their zoning codes to allow ADUs as a lawful use within single-family residential zones.
Lynn Modular Homes as an ADU Builder
Lynn Modular Homes works in this space as an ADU contractor, helping property owners navigate the process of adding an accessory dwelling unit to their property. Whether the goal is to house an elderly relative, provide a living space for a college-aged child, or create a rental income opportunity, Lynn Modular Homes offers experience in building these types of structures.
As an accessory dwelling unit builder, they are familiar with the various forms an ADU can take, including:
- Detached ADUs — freestanding backyard cottages or separate structures on the same lot
- Garage conversions — transforming an existing garage into a livable space
- In-law suites — attached or interior units designed for family members
- JADUs — Junior Accessory Dwelling Units created within the existing footprint of a home
Lynn Modular Homes brings a modular construction approach to ADU building, which can offer advantages in terms of build time and consistency. Their work as a granny flat builder and backyard cottage builder reflects an understanding of both the construction side and the regulatory environment that governs ADU development.
For property owners considering adding an ADU, working with an experienced ADU builder like Lynn Modular Homes can help make the process more straightforward, from initial planning through to completion.