Accessory Dwelling Units May Be Ideal For Seniors

Many are familiar with the term Ohana unit and refer to it as a second permitted home on the same lot. The Accessory Dwelling Unit law differs from the law that applies to Ohana units. With the recent passage of the Accessory Dwelling Unit law there is excitement, as many with large properties look for ways of adding a second home to take care of extended family, especially our Kupuna.

According to Shari Motooka-Higa, Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Accessory Dwelling Units are a move to expand affordable housing especially in areas with limited housing inventory and high housing prices. As Oahu’s senior population rapidly increases and the cost of living continues to rise, ADUs are a sustainable option for Kupuna to age in place. ADUs are ideal for seniors whose preference is to downsize, remain in a home-style environment and be close to family members. ADUs also provide elderly homeowners the option to have caregivers live on the property, providing services while allowing privacy in a separate home.

Kay Mukaigawa, President and Principal Broker of Primary Properties shares, “It will be exciting to see how builders integrate energy saving features, modular home pieces and Universal Design to support aging-in-place.”

On September 14, 2015, the City and County of Honolulu implemented several changes to the housing and zoning laws regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). According to the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting, “the purpose of this Ordinance is to establish accessory dwelling units as a permitted use in all residential zoning districts, to encourage and accommodate the construction of accessory dwelling units, increase the number of affordable rental units, and alleviate the housing shortage in the City, and to establish land use standards for those accessory dwelling units.”

Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions (Dept. of Planning and Permitting – Sept. 2015):

What is an ADU?

An ADU is an accessory or second dwelling unit, including its own kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom facilities, attached or detached from the primary dwelling unit on the zoned lot.

How are ADUs different from ohana dwelling units?

ADUs are similar, but the key difference is that ohana dwellings restrict occupancy to family members, have no size limits, and require two off-street parking spaces. The ADU regulations allow occupancy of non-family members, require only one off-street parking space, and limit the size of the ADU.

How large can an ADU be?

An ADU can be a maximum of 400 SF for lots ranging between 3,500 SF and 4,999 SF and 800 SF for lots greater than 5,000 SF.

Are owners required to live on the property?

Yes, either the ADU or primary dwelling unit must be occupied by the property owner(s), or persons who are related by blood, marriage, or adoption to the property owner(s), or designated authorized representative(s), except in unforeseen hardship circumstances (i.e. active military deployment, serious illness).

Is there a minimum occupancy period for an ADU?

Yes, an ADU may not be occupied for less than a six month (180 days) period.

Please join Kay Mukaigawa and Shari Motooka-Higa to learn more about senior housing options at one of our upcoming LifeStyles Seminars.

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