Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are one of the fastest-growing home upgrades in Long Beach. Whether you’re building an ADU for rental income, family, or a home office, proper plumbing planning is one of the most important parts of the project.
At All Tomorrow’s Plumbing, we’ve worked on ADU plumbing projects throughout Long Beach; from compact backyard studios to full one-bedroom units with kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry. Here’s what homeowners should know before starting construction.
Why ADU Plumbing Is Different Than Regular Remodels
Plumbing an ADU is not the same as remodeling an existing bathroom or kitchen. ADUs often require:
- New water supply lines
- New drain and vent systems
- Sewer or drain tie-ins to the main house
- Gas line extensions (for water heaters or appliances)
- Code-compliant fixture placement
- Coordination with inspections and permits
In Long Beach, ADUs must meet California building codes and local city requirements, which makes hiring an experienced local plumber essential.
Common ADU Plumbing Layouts in Long Beach
Every ADU is different, but most Long Beach ADUs fall into a few common layouts:
ADUs With a Full Bathroom
A typical ADU bathroom includes:
- Toilet
- Sink
- Shower or tub
- Proper venting
- Backflow protection where required
Correct slope, vent placement, and drain sizing are critical, especially when tying into an existing home.
ADUs With a Kitchen or Kitchenette
Kitchen plumbing often includes:
- Sink and garbage disposal
- Dishwasher hookup
- Hot water supply planning
- Drain and vent configuration
- Gas line (if using a gas stove)
Poor planning here can lead to slow drains or inspection delays.
ADUs With Laundry
Adding a washer and dryer requires:
- Proper drain sizing
- Standpipe installation
- Venting
- Water pressure evaluation
- Gas line (for gas dryers)
Do You Need a New Sewer Line for an ADU?
Not always; but sometimes.
Many ADUs in Long Beach can tie into the main home’s sewer line, if:
- The existing line is in good condition
- It’s properly sized
- It meets current code requirements
In some cases, upgrades or partial replacements are needed. A professional plumbing inspection before construction can save thousands by catching issues early.
Water Heaters for ADUs: What Works Best?
ADUs typically use one of these options:
- Dedicated tankless water heater
- Shared system with the main house
- Small tank water heater
The best option depends on:
- ADU size
- Fixture count
- Distance from main plumbing
- Electrical or gas capacity
We help Long Beach homeowners choose energy-efficient, code-compliant solutions that won’t overload existing systems.
Permits and Inspections for ADU Plumbing in Long Beach
Plumbing permits are required for ADU construction in Long Beach. Inspections typically include:
- Underground plumbing
- Water pressure testing
- Drain and vent inspections
- Final fixture approval
Working with a licensed local plumber helps ensure:
- Permits are pulled correctly
- Inspections pass on the first try
- Construction stays on schedule
Why Homeowners Choose All Tomorrow’s Plumbing for ADUs
We specialize in residential plumbing projects throughout Long Beach and surrounding areas, including ADUs, remodels, and new construction.
Homeowners trust us because we:
- Understand Long Beach ADU requirements
- Coordinate with contractors and inspectors
- Communicate clearly throughout the project
- Build systems designed for long-term use
- Take pride in clean, detailed work
Whether you’re early in the planning phase or already building, we can help guide your ADU plumbing from start to finish.
Planning an ADU in Long Beach? Let’s Talk Plumbing Early
The best time to involve a plumber is before concrete is poured or walls go up. Early planning can prevent costly changes later and help your ADU function exactly how you want it to.
If you’re building an ADU in Long Beach and need a reliable, experienced plumber, All Tomorrow’s Plumbing is here to help.
