Please Do Not Disturb: The Impact of an ADU on Privacy

In Austin, a city where housing is a hot topic because housing seems impossible to find, homeowners and city officials are getting creative on maximizing the space we have to accommodate the ever-increasing number of people who wish to make Austin their home. 

One of the most talked about topics when it comes to adding a standalone living space to your property is how to maintain privacy for everyone involved. 

While you may think of granny flats or man caves as tiny homes, Austin defines these small dwellings as ADUS, or “Accessory Dwelling Units.” These are separate or connected additions that have their own living space, kitchen, and bathroom.  In Austin, ADUS have their own address. 

The decision to add an ADU to your property is significant, and alongside tax implications and investment benefits, privacy considerations are a must. Here are just some of the privacy benefits to your family that an ADU offers: 

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• Aging Parents: When Mom or Dad need a place to live, an ADU provides a safe, cozy living space where your parents can have their independence but if they need you, you’re just steps away. 

• Adult Children: If the pandemic taught us nothing else, it’s that just when you thought the nest was empty, your adult son or daughter might need a place to stay. An ADU can be a cost-effective solution for temporary housing, and with a fully separate living space, privacy is a priority for everyone. 
• Extended Family: More and more, families want to stay in the same home when they visit. Who needs a hotel when you can invite your family to stay right on property so you can maximize your bonding time? 

• Reduced Friction: There comes a point on almost every trip where everyone will need some time alone, especially if there is tension between anyone involved. A dedicated space for your guests to recharge is a luxury, and another reason why the ADU model is so appealing.

In addition to the above-mentioned benefits of adding an ADU to your property, it’s important to consider how different choices can impact privacy for all involved: 

• Separate Entrances: A dedicated entrance to the ADU allows the residents to come and go as they wish without disturbing you and your housemates. 
• Window Placement: Consider where the windows will be placed in both houses so privacy issues don’t arise. Placing windows opposite each other, for example, can be problematic, so be sure to plan where the windows will be before construction begins. Frosted glass is a good choice for bathroom windows.
• Landscaping and Fencing: Landscaping with shrubs or trees is a great and sustainable way to create a natural privacy barrier. If you choose to add fencing, make sure you comply with height restrictions and setback requirements. 
• Separate Outdoor Areas: Ultimately, each household should have a separate outdoor area, whether you’re adding patio space, decks, or designated yard areas.

Additional things to consider:

• Enhanced Value:  An ADU with well-designed privacy features can be more attractive to potential long-term renters, increasing its value as a rental unit. Austin’s HOME Initiative’s attraction is allowing homeowners to maximize their property with long-term rentals by restricting short-term rentals to 30 days of renting for an entire year for homes built after 2015.

• Clear Communication:  From the moment your living agreement begins, establishing clear expectations with your ADU resident can be the difference between a good and a great neighborly experience. Discuss your expectations regarding noise levels, shared spaces (if any), and guest policies. 
• Window Treatments: Encourage the ADU resident to install blinds, curtains, or shades on their windows for added privacy control.

Enhance your property's value and enjoy privacy in  a well-designed ADU! Contact us today to learn more at domainconstructiontx.com

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