7.1 - Addressing Housing Affordability: The Role of Accessory Dwelling Units
Jack Butler
Last updated
Author: Jack Butler, Legislative Coordinator.
Purpose: Formal official positions allow AIBD to quickly respond to inquiries by members, state officials, local planning staffs, and architectural review boards regarding major current issues.
Benefits of the position statement:
Shows AIBD's support for one component of a complex solution that can solve the ongoing affordable housing shortage currently being experienced by many U.S. States.
Increases awareness of AIBD by state and local governments.
Allows AIBD to join forces with other organizations with similar interests on this topic.
Places AIBD in a proactive, rather than reactive, position about legislative changes.
Increased construction of ADUs is a potential growth opportunity for AIBD members.
Potential negatives created by the position:
Some AIBD members may not agree with the position, which could negatively impact their choice to remain a member.
Exposes AIBD and its members to criticism by persons who do not support ADU construction.
Process: Policy positions must be approved by the AIBD Board of Directors using the following steps:
Form a resolution recommending the position to the Board (below). The presentation is to include general background information, the pros and cons of the issue, and any similar actions previously taken by the Institute.
Discuss the resolution at a Board meeting. The Board may adopt the position statement as proposed or with modifications; decide that the issue is too complex or controversial and that it should be voted on by the Professional membership; or reject the statement and take no further action.
Once a position statement is approved, the Board is charged to implement the policy through a variety of activities that may include, but are not limited to, developing position papers, providing testimony, issuing public statements, writing letters and op-ed pieces, and forming coalitions to lead advocacy efforts on the issue.
The position will cease to have effect after five years unless the Board takes further action.
Effective: Immediately
Prior Actions: None.
Resolution
TITLE: Addressing Housing Affordability: The Role of Accessory Dwelling Units
WHEREAS, many parts of the country lack sufficient housing to accommodate local populations, particularly in high-growth areas; and
WHEREAS, even in regions where the housing supply is sufficient, affordability can be an issue, particularly for first-time home buyers; and
WHEREAS, there are also the trending issues of homeowners preferring to age in place and the need for multi-generational housing, where two or more generations of a family can live together and share resources and responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, these market and housing trends motivate the construction of both larger and smaller dwellings and, increasingly, the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), traditionally called mother-in-law suites and garage apartments, to supplement the living space at existing residences; and
WHEREAS, many state and local governments are modifying their zoning and other land development regulations to support—or even facilitate—ADU construction on existing single-family lots in response to the pressure for affordable and multi-generational housing; and
WHEREAS, ADUs can provide smaller and more affordable housing options in the rental market, avoid new greenfield construction and its related environmental and infrastructure costs, and provide a level of independence for relatives who need some support from other family members; and
WHEREAS, in addition to providing new affordable housing without altering the nature of existing neighborhoods, rental ADUs can provide income to keep people on their property.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) supports the construction of ADUs in appropriate settings as part of a multi-pronged approach to solving the nation’s housing crisis.
Position Statement Template
Housing shortages and affordability issues are prevalent in many regions nationwide, particularly in high-growth areas. Even where housing is abundant, first-time homebuyers often face affordability challenges. Furthermore, trends such as homeowners choosing to age in place, along with the increasing need for multi-generational living arrangements, have brought about a demand for both larger and smaller residences. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), traditionally known as mother-in-law suites or garage apartments, are emerging as a viable solution to these problems.
In response to the pressure for affordable and multi-generational housing, many state and local governments are modifying their zoning and other land development regulations to support—or even facilitate—ADU construction on existing single-family lots. In several California cities, for example, the local government publishes ADU plans that are pre-approved for building code-compliant construction. ADUs can provide smaller and more affordable housing options in the rental market, avoid new greenfield construction and its related environmental and infrastructure costs, and provide a level of independence for relatives who need some support from other family members. In addition to providing new affordable housing without altering the nature of existing neighborhoods, rental ADUs can provide income to keep people on their property.
The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) advocates for constructing ADUs in suitable locations as one strategy to alleviate the nation's housing crisis. In urban locales, ADUs can help curb gentrification by providing homeowners with additional rental income. In rural settings, ADUs enable older generations to remain on their property while younger family members assume operational responsibilities. In both contexts, ADUs foster multi-generational living arrangements and contribute to social stability. Typically situated at the rear of a lot, ADUs maintain the aesthetic of the neighborhood whilst offering flexibility to its residents.
ADUs can serve as a strategic solution to deliver accessible, affordable, and accommodating housing in [name of jurisdiction] without causing significant disruptions to existing infrastructure or altering neighborhood identity. Despite being commonplace in the past, ADUs fell out of favor due to the rise of subdivision construction and zoning laws that heavily favored single-family detached housing.
It's time to reintroduce this traditional housing solution. The AIBD urges you to explore legislative and policy changes that could support the beneficial integration of ADUs in [name of jurisdiction]. We understand that each jurisdiction is unique and may require a bespoke solution to successfully incorporate ADUs into the local development landscape. Our team, along with our volunteer members, are at your disposal to assist in drafting legislation or reviewing existing proposed bills.
About AIBD: The American Institute of Building Design is the leading organization of residential building designers, whether they are certified, registered, or otherwise qualified. AIBD is a nonprofit professional organization established in 1950 that strives to protect and enhance our members' ability to practice their profession. Local chapters across North America extend the organization's ability to serve its members. AIBD is committed to providing quality continuing education to ensure that our members remain current with technology, materials, and building codes. AIBD is also committed to establishing and maintaining professional relationships with other trade, business, and professional organizations within the design and construction industry.
Media alert:
Subject: Engaging Discussion on Housing Crisis Solutions for Your Show
Dear Producer,
I hope this message finds you well. I am [Your Name], representing the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD). We're leading the conversation on innovative solutions to the current housing crisis and affordability issues, a topic that's impacting communities nationwide.
Our latest position paper focuses on the potential of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a viable solution to these problems. ADUs, also known as mother-in-law suites or garage apartments, are gaining traction as a strategic response to the growing demand for affordable and multi-generational housing.
ADUs offer a range of benefits, from providing more affordable housing options and averting new construction costs to supporting multi-generational family units and preserving neighborhood aesthetics. They can also serve as a tool against gentrification and maintain the identity of neighborhoods without significant impacts on infrastructure.
We believe your audience would greatly benefit from a discussion on this topic, given its relevance to homeowners, prospective buyers, and policymakers alike. Our team at AIBD, with our extensive knowledge and expertise in building design and housing solutions, would be thrilled to share our insights on your show.
By hosting a conversation about ADUs, we can bring attention to the need for legislative changes, provide valuable information to your listeners, and contribute to the broader discourse on addressing the housing crisis.
I appreciate your consideration and am happy to provide more information or answer any questions you may have. I look forward to potentially collaborating with you in bringing this important discussion to your platform.
Best Regards, [Your Name] [Your Position] American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)
Talking Points:
The housing affordability crisis is a nationwide issue, particularly in high-growth areas. One solution AIBD supports is the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as mother-in-law suites or garage apartments.
The increasing trends of aging in place and multi-generational living are driving the need for ADUs. They offer a flexible living arrangement that caters to various family needs and situations.
AIBD encourages state and local governments to modify their zoning regulations to accommodate ADUs on single-family lots. This would significantly contribute to addressing housing shortages and affordability issues.
ADUs provide smaller, more affordable housing options, thereby expanding the rental market. They also offer a degree of independence for family members who require some support, making them an excellent option for multi-generational families.
Unlike large-scale development projects, ADUs help maintain the scale and appearance of neighborhoods while still providing additional housing options.
By providing homeowners with an additional source of income, ADUs can help resist gentrification, especially in urban areas.
AIBD advocates for legislative and policy changes that support the addition of ADUs in local jurisdictions. We believe each jurisdiction is unique and may require tailored solutions for the successful integration of ADUs.
As a leading voice in building design, AIBD is committed to promoting sustainable and innovative solutions to the housing crisis. We stand ready to assist lawmakers and stakeholders in drafting legislation or reviewing proposed bills related to ADUs.