By Roger Wood

It’s no secret that New Hampshire, especially in the Southern tier, is experiencing a significant housing shortage, which is driving up the prices of homes and rental units.

Now, the state has stepped in passing legislation establishing ADU’s or Accessory Dwelling Units. The city of Portsmouth has been on the leading edge of this, having wrestled with the shortage and high real estate prices for years.

Starting June 1, qualifying homeowners can convert their home. An “accessory dwelling unit” is defined as a residential living unit that is within or attached to a single-family dwelling, and that provides independent living facilities for one or more persons.

In a meeting in Portsmouth this past week, more than 100 people showed up to hear more about the ADU program. I spoke to Rick Taintor, the city’s planning director, who explained the program and the process need to participate.

For InDepthNH.org, I’m Roger Wood