How to Install an ADU in Houston: A Step-by-Step Guide
Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your Houston property can be a game-changer. Whether you're looking to generate rental income, create a space for aging parents, or set up a home office, an ADU offers a flexible and valuable solution.
The City of Houston has some of the most ADU-friendly regulations in the state, but navigating the process can still be complex. This guide breaks down the essential steps to help you turn your backyard into a functional, beautiful living space.
Step 1: Research Your Property's Eligibility
Before you do anything else, you must determine if your property is eligible for an ADU. This is the most crucial step in Houston, as city ordinances aren't the only factor.
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Check Deed Restrictions: Houston is unique in that many neighborhoods have deed restrictions that are more restrictive than city code. Some of these may prohibit an ADU entirely, while others may allow one but forbid short-term rentals. Contact the Harris County Real Property Records Office to request a copy of your deed restrictions.
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Understand City of Houston Ordinances: The City of Houston's general code of ordinances refers to ADUs as "secondary dwelling units." The key rules to know are:
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Size: The ADU can be a maximum of 900 square feet.
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Function: It must contain a working kitchen and a bathroom.
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Parking: A separate off-street parking space is required for the ADU, in addition to the two required for the primary home.
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Setbacks: ADUs must maintain a minimum 5-foot setback from the side and rear property lines.
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Step 2: Choose Your ADU Type and Design
Once you know you're clear to build, it's time to choose your ADU. Your options generally fall into two categories: traditional construction and prefabricated.
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Traditional Site-Built ADU: This involves building from the ground up, with a team of architects and contractors working on-site for months. This offers high customization but can be a long, messy, and expensive process.
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Prefabricated ADU (like PackPrefab): This is where a company like PackPrefab offers a streamlined alternative. Our expandable, flat-pack units are built off-site in a quality-controlled factory. They are then delivered to your property and assembled in a matter of days. This method drastically reduces construction time, minimizes on-site disruption, and provides a modern, energy-efficient solution at a predictable cost.
This approach is perfect for busy Houston homeowners who want to avoid the headaches of a lengthy construction project. Our models are designed for functionality and style, fitting seamlessly into most urban environments.
Step 3: Secure Permits and Approval
This is often the longest part of the process. An ADU is considered a new dwelling and requires building permits from the City of Houston Public Works Department.
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Submit Plans: You or your chosen builder/designer must submit detailed plans that comply with all city codes, including structural, plumbing, and electrical plans.
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Historical Districts: If your home is in one of Houston's 34 Historic Districts, you will also need to apply for a "Certificate of Appropriateness" to ensure your ADU's design matches the style of the main house.
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Permit Processing Time: Be prepared for a lengthy review process. While it can vary, some sources report that permits for ADUs can take up to six months to be approved, especially if the property is in a flood plain.
Step 4: Site Preparation and Utility Connections
Once your permits are approved, the physical work can begin.
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Site Surveying and Clearing: The chosen site will need to be surveyed, cleared of any obstacles, and leveled to prepare for the foundation.
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Utility Connections: Your ADU must be connected to the city's water, sewer, and electricity lines. This may involve digging trenches to extend these services from the main house to the new unit. For a seamless experience, work with a builder who has a clear plan for this part of the project.
Step 5: Installation and Final Inspection
This is where your ADU comes to life.
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Prefabricated Installation: This is where PackPrefab's method shines. Our modules arrive on-site and are quickly unfolded and assembled. The installation of a shell can take just 1-2 days.
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Final Inspection: After all construction is complete, the city will conduct a final inspection to ensure the ADU meets all building codes and is ready for occupancy. Once it passes, you will receive a Certificate of Occupancy, and your ADU is officially legal and ready to use.
Ready to Start Your ADU Journey?
Building an ADU is a significant investment, but the rewards—from extra income to providing family housing—are well worth it. By choosing a prefabricated solution, you can simplify a complex process and get your new space up and running faster.
Ready to see how a PackPrefab ADU can fit on your property? [Contact us today for a free consultation and browse our modern, expandable ADU models!]