Contractors, Researchers Say Unpermitted ADUs A Growing Issue In Bay Area – Patch

June 11, 2024

Accessory dwelling units or ADUs are among the hottest real estate trends in California, providing a possible solution to the state’s housing crisis.

But according to a new study by Stanford indicates a lot of these so-called “backyard homes” are being built illegally. Researchers used satellite imagery from San Jose and found that of the 1,300 ADUs built between 2016 and 2020, an estimated 1,000 were built without permits.

The study is meant to address equity issues as some builders work in the shadows to create housing for those who need it the most.