Difference Between Tiny Homes Vs. Granny Flats

Posted on the 30 April 2023 by Sandra @shvong1

Accessory Dwelling Unit can be the best solution for you if you want to increase storage in your house. If there are many members in your house and the space available in your house is small, then you should think about adding an ADU unit to your property.

We recommend hiring a trusted ADU contractor while converting your garage into an ADU.

If you are looking for a reliable contractor for your Los Angeles Granny Flats, then you should hire ADU Builders in Los Angeles. Now, let us understand the difference between tiny homes and granny flats.

What is a granny flat?

A Granny flat is a type of ADU, which can be attached or detached from the main residential unit. This unit serves as an elderly accommodation where your parents and other elderly members can stay comfortably without compromising their privacy. This unit is a separate dwelling unit and consists of a separate entrance, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living area. This unit serves as a granny flat where your caretakers or the elderly members of your home can stay.

A Granny flat, an accessory dwelling unit, is also known as an in-law suite, backyard cottage, or casita.

What is a tiny house?

A tiny house can be any residential dwelling that is smaller than about 400 sq. ft. Tiny houses can be built in many different shapes and styles. So, the size can vary significantly too.

Most tiny homes are built in the range of about 100 to 200 ft.². They are often built on foundations or wheels.

Difference between a granny flat and a tiny house
  • Granny flats can be built by converting rooms within the house, garage conversions, or can be built as a separate structure on the property. On the other hand, a tiny home is a freestanding dwelling that is usually less than 400 square feet.
  • Granny flats have permanent structures and proper foundations. They can be detached or attached to the main residential unit; whereas a tiny house features wheels and can be moved freely from one place to another as long as they abide by the law.

If your tiny home has wheels, then you can live anywhere you want, as long as you follow the rules for RV camping. It is ideal for staying in RV parks, on public lands, or even in some residential neighborhoods.

If your tiny home doesn't have wheels, your options for staying are much more limited. You have to find a piece of property to park your home on, which could be a challenging task for you. Once you find a spot, you have to make sure that it abides by your local zoning laws.

    If your tiny house has wheels, it can be classified as an RV and is, therefore, illegal in 99% of residential properties. If you want to downsize and live in a tiny house, then you should be aware of the potential legal implications first.

But, granny flats can be built by converting a garage or basement. It can be attached to the main living unit or can be a fully detached structure. It is an additional dwelling unit and helps to generate more space.

  • When your children grow up, the space available in your house falls short for them. With an ADU, you can resolve this issue. Your children can invite their friends and have birthday parties and spend quality time in this place. On the other hand, a tiny house represents a nomadic lifestyle.
  • You can have tax benefits with a granny flat. Several states have a law that allows tax depreciation for people who build ADU on their property. Moreover, a granny flat can give you additional income if you want to rent this place to tenants. But, a tiny house will not give you any tax depreciation benefits and it will not increase the value of your property if it is built on wheels.
  • An ADU can be a tiny house but a tiny house cannot be an ADU.

Conclusion:

If you want to add value to your home then a granny flat can be a great idea. If you are confused about how to plan your ADU unit then you can contact our professionals to get their help.