As our faithful readers may know, the ADU bill was signed into law on June 25th. This law permits the construction of an additional living unit, subject to the restrictions in the law and meeting the zoning and health and safety regulations of the State and the Local Town or City. This includes single family and multi-family houses. The Owner must be a Rhode Island resident but does not have to live in the house where the ADU is to be constructed. Additionally, the new resident does not have to be a family member.
We have met with several clients and have had multiple discussions with Architects and the Municipalities to determine what needs, need to be met and how each City is handling the influx of inquiries and permits.
The first round of Clients that we are working with are looking to convert their existing garage into an ADU. Each Client has a unique need that they are looking to fulfill. One Client is looking for additional space for a Child who is attending College and wants them to have their own space when they come back between semesters. Another Client is looking at a combined use as a rental for Brown or RISD students for a few years and then as an additional space to be used as a Home Office or Game Room for the Children as they get older. A third Client unfortunately had a Parent pass and is looking to build an ADU for Mom to be closer and to help with the Grandkids.
On the Municipal level, we have found resistance to expanding the size of existing garages to add more space such as taking off the roof and constructing a second floor. They may permit expansion in the future, but new zoning and building regulations are in process.
On the Construction side, we have figured out how to run the water, sewer and electricity to the house efficiently. This is a major component of any living space. The heating and cooling are supplied by a heat pump, also known as a Mini Split.
An ADU should be viewed as an asset. It can be used as a place for Mom and Dad to downsize and to help with the grandkids or to serve as an alternative to Assisted Living. It can be a place for children to come back as “bounce backs” between semesters, jobs or just a way to save money for a downpayment or because of a life event. It also opens the possibility for the home to become a generational asset that is passed down. The parents can move into the smaller ADU and the Children into the main house when the time comes. It can be a rental for College Students, Naval War College Students or Doctoral Students etc. Rhode Island is brimming with student life and the rental market is slim. In this circumstance, this gives you the opportunity to generate another stream of income.
Calyx can help get the answers that you need to build an ADU on your property. Email us at Inquire@CalyxBuilds.com or call 401-334-9110 Extension 3 to talk with Jenna to setup a complementary consultation.
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