How to Add an Affordable ADU to Your Property in Flagstaff

Are you a Flagstaff resident looking for a smart way to increase your living space? If so, adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) might be the perfect option for you. In fact, Flagstaff, Arizona, has recent zoning updates and incentive programs that have made it more feasible than ever to build an ADU.

Below, we explore ADUs, what they are and their benefits, and provide a step-by-step guide to help readers better understand the process of building an ADU on their Flagstaff property.

For specific questions or to get a project estimate to build an affordable ADU in Flagstaff or the surrounding area, please reach out to Outlook Construction & Remodeling today!

What is an ADU?

ADU stands for accessory dwelling unit, which refers to a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. An ADU might be attached or detached from the main residence. They can also be an interior conversion that offers flexibility for homeowners looking for additional space or income.

Commonly used terms to refer to an accessory dwelling unit include:

• Guest house
• Mother-in-law suite
• Granny Flat
• Casita

How Much is it to Build a Guest House?

Here are some very general estimates for how much it costs to build a guest house (ADU) in Flagstaff:

• Detached Guest House: $100,000 – $300,000+
• Attached Guest Suite: $50,000 – $150,000
• Garage Conversion: $30,000 – $100,000
• Interior ADU (converted basement or portion of home): $40,000 – $100,000

What are Flagstaff’s Local Zoning & Building Codes Related to ADUs?

There are specific regulations that Flagstaff has in place that govern ADU construction. Here are the main zoning rules and building codes to consider:

Size Limits

Your ADU cannot exceed 75 percent of your main dwelling’s floor area or 1,000 square feet (whichever is less). However, your new ADU can have a gross floor area of up to 800 square feet, regardless of the size of the primary dwelling (assuming all other requirements are met).

Setbacks

Another consideration for a detached ADU in Flagstaff is that it needs a rear and side setback of five feet. In other words, the structure has to be at least five feet from the back edge and the sides of your lot.

Occupancy

Your ADU can have a maximum occupancy of two. To clarify, only two people can reside in your ADU and, furthermore, if it’s used as a vacation or short-term rental, the property owner must reside onsite (either in the main house or the ADU).

Utilities

When it comes to utilities, attached or interior ADUs in Flagstaff must be connected to the same utilities as the primary dwelling, except for internet, telephone, and television. Detached ADUs are required to have a separate water meter.

What Types of ADUs Can I Choose From?

As we’ve already discussed, there are three main types of ADU classifications in Flagstaff. The types of ADUs you can choose from are:

#1 Detached ADU

This is a standalone structure that is separate from the primary residence and the only one requiring a separate water meter. Detached ADUs, which most people think of when they hear the term “guest house,” are great for privacy, but can be more expensive to build because they require their own foundation, plumbing, electrical, and utilities.

#2 Attached ADU

These ADUs share a common wall or roof with the main house and are often seen as a side or rear addition. Attached ADUs are more affordable than detached ones, but they offer less privacy for the occupants.

#3 Interior ADU

When it comes to building an ADU inside your existing home, we often look to convert a basement, attic, or garage for the space. This is usually the least expensive ADU type and is a good option for those with limited yard space.

What Are the Budgeting & Cost Considerations for an ADU?

As you would imagine, costs for ADUs in Flagstaff can vary widely based on size, design, and construction methods. Here are your main budgeting considerations and tips for keeping costs low:

Design Efficiency

To save money, opt for simple designs that maximize the space without unnecessary complexity. You can achieve this through utilizing an open floor plan (to reduce wasted space), adding built-in storage (think under-bed drawers, wall shelving), and limiting custom shapes and non-standard layouts.

Material Selection

Go with cost-effective, durable materials that meet building codes. This means going with engineered wood or LVP flooring (as opposed to hardwood), opting for fiber cement siding (it’s durable and low-maintenance), and reducing long-term costs by installing energy-efficient windows and high R-value insulation.

Labor Costs

First and foremost, hire licensed, professional ADU contractors like Outlook Construction & Remodeling to take on your home addition project. In an effort to save a few dollars, you may be able to tackle some of the project’s tasks yourself, finishing activities like painting, landscaping, or interior finishes. Structural, electrical, and plumbing work must be left to the pros.

Permitting Fees

One reason it’s important to work with experienced local contractors is to make sure you have all of your permits and the associated fees in order. Without the right authorization, you could be forced to tear down your ADU. Your contractor has a plan to obtain permits, pay for additional costs (such as separate utility meters), and budget for inspection and compliance checks by the city.

Ready to Build Your ADU? Reach Out to Outlook Construction & Remodeling Today!

If you’re ready to build that in-law suite on your Flagstaff property, contact our team today. We can help you decide on the right type of ADU based on your property, lot size, and general purpose.

Our team takes your goals and design ideas into consideration when putting together blueprints. When working with Outlook Construction, you don’t have to worry about navigating Flagstaff’s zoning laws and permitting requirements–we handle all of the applications and paperwork.

The next step is to reach out. Click here to call or complete our contact form, and a member of our team will reach out. In the mean time, check out some of our recent Flagstaff additions.