The cost of housing has skyrocketed nationwide, and the problem is particularly acute in Massachusetts. Fortunately, the Affordable Homes Act, signed into law by Governor Healey last August, allows property owners to build an ADU without having to get special or discretionary approval from the local zoning board. The new law will provide additional options for elders and disabled persons to find more affordable housing and receive necessary care.
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An ADU is a small residential living space located on the same lot as another home. ADUs can be located inside the existing home, such as converting a basement into an apartment. An ADU can also be a newly constructed addition to the existing home, a detached structure like a cottage, or even a converted detached garage. ADUs must be no larger than half the gross floor area of the principal dwelling or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller. In addition, they must have a separate entrance, either directly from the outside or through an entry hall or corridor shared with the existing home.
ADUs are an excellent option for elders and disabled adults, including those in need of care. Let’s look at some examples:
- A family could construct an ADU inside or outside their home to house an elderly parent or disabled child or sibling, giving both the family and the parent/child/sibling greater privacy. (In addition, family members providing necessary care to an elderly parent or disabled adult are eligible for reimbursement and payment.)
- An elder or disabled adult could have an ADU constructed to house family members who are currently unable to afford their own home. Again, the family members can be paid for any care provided.
- An elder or disabled adult requiring a great deal of care, but wishing to remain in his or her home, could construct an ADU to house an unrelated caregiver.
These are just some ways ADUs offer additional options for elders and disabled adults to reside in their own homes or continue to live in the community. As far as finding ways to pay for necessary care, as always, I’m here to help.
Until next time, take care…