Los Angeles homeowners have many reasons to consider an accessory dwelling unit. Some want a private space for family. Others want rental income, a work studio, or a long-term housing option that makes better use of the property. A pre-approved ADU plan can make the search feel more manageable, but it should still be reviewed carefully. The first mistake many homeowners make is treating a pre-approved plan like a finished project. It is not. It is a starting point. The plan may have already gone through a level of review, but your property still needs to be evaluated. For a local starting point, visit the Los Angeles pre-approved ADU plans page on ADU Plan Finder . It is built to help homeowners compare accepted plan listings, providers, official source links, permit context, and plan details before relying on a design. 1. Start with your property goals Before comparing plans, decide what the ADU is supposed to do. Is it for a parent or adult child? A rental unit? A guest space? A studio?…