Frequently Asked Questions.
About Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
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An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary living space on a residential property. These units are built as standalone structures. In Canada, ADUs must have designated areas for living, sleeping, cooking, and bathing, making them fully functional homes.
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In Victoria, ADUs have to be under 400 square feet (which our bachelor is specifically designed for) and are subject to a streamlined set of regulations. Local jurisdictions cannot impose stricter rules regarding the unit's height, design, lot coverage, or setbacks. Different jurisdictions have different requirements, contact us now to determine your eligibility.
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ADUs have gained traction among homeowners seeking to boost property value, expand living space, or create rental opportunities. They offer a cost-effective alternative to purchasing larger homes, especially on Vancouver Island. The government encourages ADU construction to increase housing density without altering neighborhood character, addressing concerns related to larger multifamily developments.
About Urban Abode ltd.
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Urban Abode boasts a talented team of architects, designers, and construction professionals. Our in-house development process, complemented by collaborations with external experts, ensures the creation of beautiful, customizable spaces. Each unit is meticulously designed to maximize the potential of your outdoor area.
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Currently, Urban Abode units are available on Vancouver Island. If you're interested in adding a unit to your property, please fill out our contact form, and we’ll guide you through the process.
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A prefab homes Vancouver island, or prefabricated unit, refers to a structure constructed in a controlled factory environment and later assembled on-site. This method minimizes waste and enhances quality, providing homeowners with peace of mind as installation time in their yards is reduced.
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Prefab and modular homes are not identical. Modular homes are built in several smaller sections, while Urban Abode units arrive mostly complete as a single structure.
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Urban Abode units are permanently affixed to a concrete / Screw pile foundation and connected to utilities, distinguishing them from mobile homes. Once installed, they are classified as "Real Property," contributing to your property’s value. Our construction methods adhere to rigorous building standards, ensuring durability and energy efficiency.
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Urban Abode units are designed to fit your yard and timeline. Projects can be completed in as little as three months, from signing the contract to handing over the keys.
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Absolutely! Urban Abode units significantly enhance your property's value. For an ADU to qualify as "Real Property" in Canada, it must be built to specific housing standards. Without adherence to these standards, an ADU may be classified as "Personal Property," which typically depreciates in value.
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Urban Abode holds all necessary contractor licenses, ensuring professionalism from start to finish. We manage everything, from contracts to utility connections, backed by comprehensive insurance policies to protect your home and our team.
Pricing
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We pride ourselves on offering a fixed pricing model that encompasses everything—from the unit and site work to project management, permitting, and installation.
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Certain factors can raise the overall cost of an ADU installation, such as:
Larger cranes for deeper yards.
Extended trenching for utility connections.
Significant demolition or removal of existing structures.
Required third-party environmental assessments.
We prioritize transparency, ensuring you understand any potential additional costs before you commit.
Customization
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Every Urban Abode unit comes equipped with:
Refrigerator
Electric cooktop
Electric stove
Exterior vented range hood
Dishwasher
Heat pump heating and air conditioning
Heat pump water heater
Bathroom fan
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You have the freedom to choose materials and colors for your unit. Each model offers various options for siding, interior finishes allowing you to personalize your Urban Abode.
Customer Service
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Our dedicated team handles all aspects of the permitting process, from submission to installation. Your primary decision will be selecting the siding style and color.
Design
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At Urban Abode, our focus is on creating elegantly designed, high-quality ADUs that provide homeowners with flexibility and comfort. We continuously refine our designs based on customer feedback, ensuring that we meet and exceed expectations.
Installation
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Our units comply with all city regulations. In certain municipalities, the approval process may be more complex, so reach out with your address for a thorough assessment.
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Contact us with your address, and our team will conduct a remote assessment to determine fit. General dimensions are as follows:
Urban Abode Studio: 25’-1” W x 14’-6” D; requires 30'-0" W x 17'-2" D of clear space.
Urban Abode One: 32’-5” W x 14’-6” D; requires 40'-7" W x 17'-7" D of clear space.
Energy Efficiency
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All Urban Abode units are built with energy efficiency in mind. They include high-efficiency low-e windows and insulation that exceeds standard requirements. Additionally, every model is fully electric, featuring energy-efficient appliances and systems.
