Legalization typically involves submitting plans to Planning, obtaining building permits, meeting current habitability standards, and completing any structural or safety upgrades the city requires. This can include fire separation, improved egress, updated electrical and plumbing, and adequate ceiling height and ventilation. The process can take months in older buildings, but once complete, the unit is recognized as a legal ADU for rental and resale purposes. I help clients understand what’s feasible, what the city is likely to require, and what the realistic timeline and cost look like.
