What is an Additional Dwelling Unit?

An Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU), also known as a secondary suite or accessory dwelling unit, is a self-contained living space located on the same property as an existing home. ADUs are designed to be smaller, independent units that can serve a variety of purposes, such as rental housing, guest accommodations, or housing for extended family.

As housing prices rise, and demand for affordable living spaces increases, ADUs, particularly Detached Additional Residential Units (ARUs), are becoming an increasingly popular option in Ontario for both homeowners and municipalities seeking to address housing shortages.

 

Types of Additional Dwelling Units

ADUs come in two main types: attached and detached.

Attached ADUs include basement apartments or units built above garages, or floor plans split in some way to create a new unit (or two, or sometimes even three), utilizing the existing structure of the home.

Detached Additional Residential Units, however, are free-standing, self-contained units built separately from the main house. Typically located in the rear or side yard of single-detached, semi-detached, or townhouse properties, these small homes provide a fully independent living space. For an ARU to qualify as a legal ADU, it must include essential living features, including an independent washroom, kitchen, laundry facilities, and sleeping space. Detached ARUs offer the unique benefit of providing privacy for the tenants or family members while still being on the same property.

 

Benefits of Additional Dwelling Units

ADUs offer numerous benefits for homeowners and communities. They provide a solution to the growing demand for affordable housing, especially in urban or suburban areas where housing costs are climbing. By creating extra living spaces on existing properties, homeowners can generate rental income or accommodate family members, helping to offset mortgage costs. ARUs also contribute to efficient land use by making use of underutilized yard space, reducing the need for new developments or urban sprawl. These units promote sustainability by providing flexible, cost-effective housing options without the environmental footprint of new construction.

 

Pre-Reviewed Detached ARUs

In the City of Kingston, to make it easier for property owners to add ADUs they have partnered with builders to create a list of pre-reviewed building plans that meet Ontario Building Code standards. While having plans pre-reviewed for Building Code compliance does not mean they meet the Zoning Bylaw. Each property will need to be checked through the final permit process to ensure zoning compliance, as each lot configuration and ARU placement differs within lot constraints. House of Three is proud to partner with Redden’s Contracting Inc. on this exciting initiative.

 

Conclusion

Additional Dwelling Units are becoming an essential housing solution for homeowners in Ontario. If you are considering an ADU for rental income, these units offer significant benefits for both property owners and communities. With municipalities increasingly relaxing zoning regulations around ADUs, now is an ideal time to explore the potential of adding an ARU to your property and contributing to the growing need for affordable housing.

Ready to get started? Discover more about the City of Kingston’s program and how it can simplify your ARU project today!