An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), whether attached to the property owner’s primary home or designed as a separate structure, can be a solution to the need for additional space for multigenerational living, providing separate quarters and privacy for family members. These units can also serve as legal rentals and a source of additional income for the property owner.

The minimum length of time a unit can be rented out is six months and income is subject to taxation. Among other applicable rules and guidelines are that the existing home must be the owner’s primary residence and only one ADU dwelling may be built on a lot.

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Since the legislation was enacted by the City and County in 2015, Homeworks Construction has designed ADUs ranging from 200 to 800 square feet. The structures include one to three bedrooms, a full bath and kitchen, and are available in free standing and attached styles.

The first step in planning an ADU is to confirm that the property qualifies in terms of size, configuration, setbacks and street access, as well as with relation to the existing structure. Guidelines are updated periodically. Homeworks can provide information on the most current ADU regulations to property owners who make an appointment for a free consultation, which may be on site or at the Homeworks office.

“We currently have had four new multigenerational homes under construction in the Saint Louis Heights neighborhood, all rebuilds that include attached ADUs,” says Homeworks president and chief of field operations Sylvio Boucher. “The best way to make decisions about adding an ADU to your property is to meet with us at the job site so we can explore your various options in terms of the design and placement of the ADU.”

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Two new custom homes with ADUs designed and built by Homeworks have been completed in Wailupe (house with lanai) and Kaimuki, both with ADUs attached to main living areas at ground level.

A design/build firm, Homeworks Construction provides “all design and construction services under one roof,” the company slogan. Homeworks was named one of Hawaii’s best construction companies in Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s annual “Hawaii’s Best” awards program and “Builder of the Year” by the Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA). The National Association of Home Builders has designated the company a “Built Green Professional” and “Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist.”

Homeworks offers free consultation at the job site as well as at the company offices in the Homeworks Building at 2111 S. Beretania St. To make an appointment or for more information, please call 808-955-2777 or go to homeworkshawaii.com.

HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION
CONTACT 2111 S. Beretania St., Honolulu
WEB homeworkshawaii.com

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