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ADU Construction Services: Your Guide to a Smarter Home Investment
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are transforming how people live, rent, and invest in real estate. Whether you need space for extended family, want to create a rental income stream, or just want to increase your property value, ADU construction services are the key to making it happen.
🏘️ What Is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a small, self-contained living unit built on the same lot as a primary residence. Common types include:
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Detached ADUs: Standalone units in a backyard or side yard.
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Attached ADUs: Units attached to the main house but with separate entry.
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Garage Conversions: Existing garages converted into fully functional apartments.
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Basement ADUs: Finished basements converted into separate residences.
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Junior ADUs (JADUs): Smaller units within the home, often sharing a bathroom or kitchen.
🛠️ What Do ADU Construction Services Include?
High-quality ADU construction services are typically full-service, covering everything from idea to execution. Here's what they generally offer:
1. Feasibility Study
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Property inspection
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Zoning and setback checks
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Utility availability
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Budget planning
2. Design & Architecture
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Custom floor plans
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3D renderings
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Engineering and structural plans
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Interior layout planning
3. Permitting & Compliance
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Navigating local building codes
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Submitting plans to city departments
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Ensuring ADA and fire code compliance
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Managing revisions for approval
4. Construction & Build
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Site preparation and grading
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Foundation and framing
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Electrical, plumbing, HVAC installation
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Interior and exterior finishes
5. Final Inspection & Handover
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City inspection coordination
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Punch list completion
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Final cleaning and client walkthrough
💡 Why Consider ADU Construction?
There are several benefits of building an ADU on your property:
✅ Extra Income
ADUs are excellent for generating rental income, whether for long-term tenants or short-term platforms like Airbnb.
✅ Multigenerational Living
Ideal for families with aging parents, adult children, or in-laws who need independence with proximity.
✅ Increase Property Value
A legal ADU significantly boosts your home’s resale value—often by 20–30% depending on the area.
✅ Work From Home Solution
Many homeowners are building ADUs as office spaces, studios, or workshops to work comfortably from home.
🧱 ADU Construction Timeline
The timeline can vary based on the type and size of your ADU, but here’s a general overview:
Stage | Time Frame |
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Feasibility & Planning | 2–4 weeks |
Design & Permitting | 1–3 months |
Construction | 3–6 months |
Final Inspection | 1–2 weeks |
Total Time: 6–10 months (on average)
💲 ADU Construction Cost Breakdown
The cost of ADU construction services depends on the complexity, materials, and city. Here’s a basic guide:
Type of ADU | Estimated Cost |
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Garage Conversion | $70,000 – $130,000 |
Attached ADU | $100,000 – $180,000 |
Detached ADU | $150,000 – $300,000+ |
JADU | $40,000 – $80,000 |
Always get a detailed quote from your ADU contractor, including design, permits, utilities, and construction.
🏗️ How to Choose the Right ADU Construction Provider
Not all contractors are created equal. Look for the following when hiring an ADU construction service:
✔️ Licensed & Insured
Verify the company’s license and insurance status through your state’s contractor licensing board.
✔️ Experience with ADUs
Ask how many ADUs they’ve built in your city and request photos or walkthroughs of past projects.
✔️ Turnkey Services
Choose a contractor who handles design, permits, and construction—so you don’t have to juggle multiple vendors.
✔️ Transparent Pricing
Ask for itemized bids and timelines to avoid unexpected costs down the line.
🧰 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an ADU Builder
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Are you familiar with local ADU zoning laws?
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How long will the permitting process take in my area?
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Can you provide a fixed-price quote or is it time-and-materials?
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Do you use subcontractors or in-house crews?
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Will I have a dedicated project manager?
📍 ADU Construction Services in California (or Your Region)
If you're in California, you’re in one of the most ADU-friendly states in the U.S. Thanks to statewide legislation (SB 9, AB 68), cities are now required to allow ADUs under certain conditions. That’s made it easier than ever to build:
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Los Angeles ADU construction
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San Diego garage conversions
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Bay Area backyard homes
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Orange County JADUs
Make sure your ADU contractor knows the specific regulations in your county or city.

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