Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Greater Los Angeles
Design • Permit • Build
Add flexible living space, create rental income, or plan for multi-generational living—all without moving. We handle the entire ADU journey: feasibility, design, permits, construction, and final walkthrough.
What is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a self-contained living space built on the same property as an existing home. Sometimes called a granny flat, in-law suite, or backyard home, an ADU has its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance, making it a fully independent residence.
In California, ADUs have become a popular way for homeowners to:
Create housing for family members or guests
Earn passive rental income
Increase property value
Provide affordable housing options in high-demand areas
ADUs come in several forms, including detached backyard cottages, attached additions, garage conversions, and basement apartments. Recent state laws have made it faster and easier than ever to design, permit, and build an ADU, with streamlined approvals and reduced fees in many cities.
Why Build an ADU in California (2025)
Fast, ministerial approvals
Cities must approve or deny a complete ADU application within 60 days. No discretionary hearings.
Boost Your Home Value
Adding an ADU can significantly increase your property’s resale value. In California’s housing market, a well-designed ADU makes your home more attractive to buyers and appraisers, often adding hundreds of thousands in value.
Rental & Income Opportunities
Whether you rent your ADU long-term, short-term, or keep it flexible for family use, it becomes a powerful source of extra income. Many homeowners use ADUs to offset mortgage payments, build financial security, or even create ongoing passive income.
Pre-approved plans
Cities are required to offer programs for pre-approved ADU plans (rolling out 2025), which can speed permitting.
Adaptable Space for Life’s Changes
Beyond the financial benefits, ADUs provide freedom and flexibility. They can serve as a private guest house, workspace, or multigenerational living space—adapting as your needs change.
Potential resale flexibility
Under AB 1033, cities may allow ADUs to be sold separately as condos (some already do, like San José); availability varies by city.
What We Build
Detached ADUs (backyard cottages)
stand-alone homes for rental, guests, or family.
Attached ADUs
Additions that share a wall with the main home.
Garage Conversions
Convert existing space into a complete suite.
JADUs
Compact (≤500 sq ft) units inside the primary home.
Every ADU we deliver is code-compliant, thoughtfully designed, and tailored to how you’ll actually use it—guest suite, long-term rental, home office, studio, or aging-in-place.
Our Process (Simple + Predictable)
Feasibility & Site Check
We review setbacks, utilities, parking exemptions, and solar needs; you get a clear go/no-go and budget window.
Design
Floor plans, elevations, and selections that fit your lot, budget, and goals (detached, attached, garage conversion, or JADU).
Permits
We submit a complete package for ministerial approval.
Build
Fixed scope construction with quality control at each milestone.
Handover
Final inspections, warranty, and a certificate of occupancy.
FAQs
How big can my ADU be?
State law protects up to 800 sq ft (with 4-ft side/rear setbacks) regardless of lot coverage; detached ADUs can go to 1,200 sq ft or more if your city allows. Attached ADUs may be limited to 50% of the main home but never less than 850 sq ft (1,000 sq ft for 2+ bedrooms).
Do I need to add parking?
Not if you’re within ½ mile of transit in LA; removing a garage doesn’t require replacement parking.
How long do permits take?
Cities must approve or deny a complete ADU application in 60 days; if denied, they must provide a list of fixes
What fees apply?
Impact fees are waived under 750 sq ft; above that, they must be proportional to the primary home. School fees can’t be charged under 500 sq ft.
Can I sell an ADU separately?
Possibly. AB 1033 lets cities choose to allow condo-style ADU sales; some have begun (e.g., San José). Check your local rules.
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