ADU Facts
ABC Title 24 Reporting is the source for Architects, Engineers, Contractors,
& Homeowners who must comply with the Title 24 Regulations in California.
What is An ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a residential dwelling that can be built on a lot with an existing single-family home or multi-family development.
ADUs can be different types of dwellings.
-Detached (a separate building in the backyard)
-Built as an Addition to part of an existing structure (an existing residence or unconditioned space, like a garage or shed)
-Can be converted from an existing garage, or other part of an existing residence.
ADUs are independent units that must have their own kitchens, bathrooms, and entrances. All CA and state standards require them to have their own individual utilities and appliances.
ADUs have many names:
-Accessory apartments
-Secondary suites
-In-law unit
-Granny Flat
-Studio
-Carriage House
ADU Facts
PV/solar Requirement Exceptions:
-The ADU is permitted as an Addition or a Conversion.
-ADU Solar Access Roof Area less than 80 contiguous sq ft
-No PV system is required when the minimum ADU PV system is less than 1.8 kWdc
-ADU roof has Excessive snow loads
-ADU was approved by local planning dept prior to 01/01/2020
Water Heater Exception: A tankless electric water heater (point of use electric resistance) is allowed in new dwelling units that are 500 sq. ft. or less of conditioned space.
ADU Structure Types
A new standalone structure, detached from the existing home.
A new dwelling unit, attached to the existing home.
What is a JADU?
A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a part of an existing single-family home that is re-purposed as a private dwelling by incorporating a small kitchen and separate entrance.
The difference between a JADU and ADU is that JADUs must be located within the existing primary residence and be no greater than 500 square feet in size. It can also share the main home’s utilities and HVAC systems.
JADUs require that the owner occupies either the primary residence or accessory unit.
We provide compliant Title 24 reports for the following construction project types:
Residential New Construction, including Mechanical Systems Calculations
Additions & Alterations ADUs & Companion Units (granny flats, SDU, studios, ADQ, etc) Lighting
– Indoor & Outdoor (Residential and Commercial) Commercial/Non-Residential – Envelope and Mechanical Systems Calculations