What is involved in adding an efficiency apartment to my home?

Answer by  Karen54 (971)

An efficiency apartment is a self-contained unit that combines the living room, bedroom and kitchen area in one room. It will have a separate bathroom located in the unit and will have a separate entrance. Zoning codes vary, so you must check with your local government to see if your area is zoned to allow multiple family housing.

Answer by  withluck (1745)

If the efficiency apartment is to be rented out, you will need to check on building permits and codes for occupancy, as well as laws that effect landlords.

Answer by  John (9008)

The rules for this vary by state and even town. Generally speaking, there will be zoning issues. You may have to get approval from your local planning board, depending upon your local zoning rules, since you will be turning part of your house into a rental. Your neighborhood might also prohibit multi-family dwellings, or require a special permit.

Answer by  Latin4 (11170)

First you need a permit from the city to see if its legal to add to the residence. They will require seperate entrance and stairs from the apartment.

Answer by  Gabriel (2146)

You need to clarify: are you wanting to build an apartment or just rent out an existing room? If you're just looking to rent an "efficiency", pick a room with a private bathroom and rent it out. Make sure any limitations on the rest of the house are clearly stipulated in the lease.

Answer by  Turks (319)

I think, minimilistic furniture with multi purpose is the right thing needed to increase the efficiency of a house. By that i mean that buy furnitures that can be used for more that just one thing or get them made according to your ideas and demands, eg, low table that can be used as chairs and as storage space!!

Answer by  bb (674)

check with local building officials to determine if a permit is required. also check on the cost of cooling and heating.