NEW YORK (VINnews) — Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani on Tuesday unveiled a suite of tools designed to make it easier for homeowners to add ancillary dwelling units (ADUs), such as backyard cottages or “in-law units,” to their properties.

The initiative, called “ADU for You,” includes a guidebook, a pre-approved plan library, and digital tools for site feasibility and cost estimation. The city also plans to reopen applications for the Plus One ADU program, which provides up to $395,000 in financial and technical support to eligible homeowners.

“One of the solutions to the housing crisis can be found in our backyards, attics, or basements,” Mamdani said. “By making it easier for New Yorkers to turn their homes into extra space for family or income, we’re allowing our city to grow while keeping the character of our neighborhoods.”

The Plus One ADU program, funded by the city and New York State Homes and Community Renewal, previously received more than 1,300 submissions within two weeks and had been closed to new applicants since February 2024.

City officials emphasized that ADUs could provide additional housing while helping homeowners generate income or accommodate family members. Buildings Commissioner Ahmed Tigani said the pre-approved plan library streamlines permitting by providing code-compliant designs that can be adapted to specific properties.

Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning Leila Bozorg said the tools ensure that homeowners can navigate regulations and financing, whether adding a backyard cottage or converting existing spaces like garages or attics.

Officials from nonprofit and partner organizations, including Restored Homes HDFC, Habitat for Humanity New York City and Westchester County, and AARP New York, praised the program for helping homeowners create flexible, affordable housing while remaining in their communities.

ADUs are expected to help expand housing options in low-density neighborhoods while maintaining existing neighborhood character. The city plans to review and add more pre-approved plans as they are submitted by design professionals.

Online: https://www.nyc.gov/site/hpd/services-and-information/plus-one-adu.page?utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery
Online: https://housing.hpd.nyc.gov/adu?utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery