Los Angeles
ADU Builder Design Permits Construction

A detached ADU is a completely independent living unit built as a separate structure on your property, most commonly in the backyard. It includes its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living space, making it fully self-contained.

• Max Size: Up to 1,200 sq ft under California law
• Height: Up to 16 feet for single-story detached units
• Setbacks: Just 4 feet from side and rear property lines
• Best For: Rental income, multigenerational living, home office
• Typical Cost: $200,000 - $400,000 depending on size and finishes
• Timeline: 10-14 months from design to move-in

Detached ADUs typically command the highest rental income because they offer complete privacy and separation. They are ideal for homeowners who want to maximize their property's income potential or provide independent living quarters for family members.

A garage conversion ADU repurposes your existing garage into a complete living space. Because the basic structure, foundation, and roof already exist, this is often the fastest and most affordable path to adding an ADU to your property.

• Typical Size: 400 - 600 sq ft (based on existing garage footprint)
• No Replacement Parking: California law prohibits cities from requiring replacement parking
• Cost: $100,000 - $180,000, roughly 30-50% less than new construction
• Timeline: 3-5 months of construction, the shortest of any ADU type
• Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners, quick turnaround projects

Garage conversions are particularly popular in Los Angeles because most single-family homes have garages that are underused for vehicle storage. The existing structure significantly reduces construction costs while still delivering a fully permitted, code-compliant living space with its own kitchen and bathroom.

An attached ADU is a new addition built onto your existing home, sharing one or more walls with the primary residence. This approach works especially well when backyard space is limited or when you want to minimize visual impact on your property.

• Max Size: Up to 1,200 sq ft or 50% of the primary home's floor area, whichever is greater
• Height: Can match the height of the main home
• Setbacks: Same as the main structure's existing setbacks
• Cost: $150,000 - $300,000 depending on size and complexity
• Best For: Properties with limited lot space, aging-in-place family housing

Attached ADUs can leverage existing foundation and utility connections, often reducing costs compared to fully detached construction. They are a popular choice for homeowners who want to keep aging parents nearby while still providing independent, private living quarters with a separate entrance.