Unpermitted granny flats in San Diego have become a source of concern. Building without going through the necessary steps will have implications for you as the property owner and your tenants in case you decide to rent out the unit.
As professional ADU builders in San Diego, we can help you legalize your ADU to reap full benefits from your investment.
Building an unpermitted granny flat in San Diego will have several safety and legal implications.
When you decide to build an unpermitted ADU, your structure does not go through the required inspections and permitting process. This translates to having a dwelling unit with an increased risk of safety hazards as it does not meet safety standards for electrical, plumbing, and structural components.
Building an unpermitted granny flat goes against the local building codes and zoning regulations. Such a flat will result in fines, legal penalties, or even a demolish order. Ensure compliance with the law to avoid such extreme measures.
Insurance companies require a structure to be permitted and comply with the building codes. In case of damage or liability claims, insurance may be denied or invalidated if the ADU is built illegally and is unpermitted. A lack of insurance coverage may lead to financial losses and legal complications.
Any prospective buyer may be unwilling to purchase your property when the granny flat is unpermitted, as this may mean future legal and safety implications on their part. Most lenders will also be hesitant to finance unpermitted granny flats, limiting the number of buyers for your property.
The City of San Diego regularly enforces building codes and zoning regulations. Government officers carry out inspections and issue citations for unpermitted structures. Property owners may be required to demolish the ADU, bring it up to code, or face fines, penalties, or legal action.
Tenants who live in unpermitted ADUs do not have the same legal protection as those living in legal flats. This poses a risk to the tenant, and landlords as the lease agreements for such a property are not legally enforceable.
San Diego property owners may decide to build ADUs on their properties for several reasons illegally. They may include:
| Reason | Explanation |
| Time limit | The permit application and approval processes take a considerable amount. Homeowners hurrying to have their ADUs completed may choose to ignore the entire permitting process. |
| Rental income | An ADU is an opportunity to earn rental income. Property owners who need such revenue quickly may decide to forego the lengthy permitting process. |
| Limited property use | Some properties do not satisfy the requirements of local zoning regulations, or they may have restrictions that prevent the construction of ADUs on them. Such a property owner may build an unpermitted unit to maximize available space despite government restrictions. |
| A lack of awareness | A homeowner may be unaware of the regulations and permitting requirements for ADUs in San Diego. Such an individual may falsely believe that they do not need permits to build their granny flat, or they may not understand the consequences. |
As licensed ADU builders in San Diego, we will handle the process to help you obtain permits and approvals for your unpermitted granny flat. Steps for legalizing your ADU will include:
As expert ADU builders in San Diego, we know the importance of having a permitted granny flat. If your ADU is unpermitted due to one reason or the other, worry not.
We can also make modifications and seek the necessary approvals and permits from the city’s building department to legalize it.
Get in touch today for a free quote.
Yes, an illegal ADU may have safety and legal implications. As a property owner, your risk penalties, fines, or even a demolition order when the city’s code enforcement officers identify your structure.
Yes, you can. The process will include bringing the structure up to code, scheduling inspections, obtaining permits, and resolving any pending fines or penalties.
Get a professional contractor to help you with the legalization process. We will assess your unit, suggest modifications, apply for permits, schedule inspections, pay fines, and obtain your certificate of occupancy.
This is not recommended as such units may not comply with safety and legal regulations. You should legalize your granny flat and obtain approvals before renting it out.
Legalizing an unpermitted unit will positively impact your property. A permitted structure is a recognized and legal living space and will attract potential buyers or tenants.
