What is an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)?

An accessory dwelling unit is a second home that is added to a property. It is any space that you create that has a kitchen, sleeping area and bathroom that is secondary to your the home. The accessory dwelling is a house or apartment and has all of the comforts, rooms and amenities you would need to live comfortable - think of it as a small house or apartment.

ADUs can be a detached backyard cottage, a remodeled part of your main home such as a basement or attic, or they can be additions to the main house.

Accessory dwellings tend to range from studios that are 250 square feet up, one bedrooms that are about 450 square feet and two bedrooms that are 650-750 square feet.

The price can range anywhere from $175,000 to convert a basement, to $400,000 or more for a large detached ADU. These prices also vary by location and depending on the complexity of your site, and selection of materials and systems for the project. We can do simple projects on a budget, or luxury ADUs for those who want to invest in the all of the best materials and latest systems and technology.

SB 1069 in California gave every homeowner the right to build an ADU. Many cities and states across the country also allow these to be built with varying rules and regulations that dictate allowable sizes, styles, and features.