ADU Construction Services in San Diego
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Why Choose Our ADU Construction Company?
At OneStop ADU, we make building your backyard home simple and stress-free on your side. Our team manages everything – from design and permits to ADU construction, inspections, and final finishes. If you work with us, you don’t have to juggle between different constructors, permits, and approvals.
With pre-approved ADU plans that meet California’s building codes, you’ll save lots of time. We use licensed builders, high-quality materials, and curated finish packages to provide the best results. Plus, our clear pricing and step-by-step support mean you’ll always know what to expect. We handle all the hard work and let you enjoy the results.
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Types of ADU Construction
There are many types of ADUs to fit different needs and budgets. At our ADU construction company in San Diego, we build all kinds of ADUs using traditional construction methods – not prefab kits. Our team can help you decide which option works best for your lot, goals, and city rules. Whatever your choice is, we’ll design and build an ADU that fits your vision perfectly.
A detached ADU is a standalone unit built separately from your main home - usually in the backyard. It functions as a complete living space with its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and utilities. This type of ADU is perfect if you want more privacy for guests or family members, or if you plan to rent it out for extra income. Because it’s independent, a detached ADU gives you the most freedom in design and layout.
A garage addition ADU is built directly above or attached to your existing garage. It’s a great option if you want to keep your yard open while adding extra square footage. Because it builds on an existing structure, it can be more cost-effective than starting from scratch, while still providing extra living space for guests, renters, or family.
A garage conversion ADU transforms your existing garage into a fully functional, independent living space with. This is one of the most cost-effective ADU options since the foundation and structure are already in place. It’s perfect if you rarely use your garage. Garage conversions maximize space without expanding your footprint, with relatively short ADU construction timelines and an affordable way to add value and extra living area to your property.
A home addition ADU expands your existing house by adding new square footage directly connected to the main structure. Unlike a detached unit, it can be an undistinguishable addition to your house, creating extra space for a larger kitchen, an additional bedroom, or a private suite for family members. This option is ideal if you want more living space without building a separate structure.
A home conversion ADU repurposes part of your existing house into a self-contained living unit. It’s a great option for homeowners who want to create rental income or provide a private space for family without building new structures. This approach is usually faster and more affordable since it uses your home’s existing structure. A home conversion maximizes what you already have, turning underused space into a comfortable living area.
A J-ADU (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a smaller unit created within the walls of your existing home, usually by converting a bedroom, basement, or garage. It must be attached to the main house and include a small kitchen plus a separate entrance. This type of ADU is ideal for homeowners who want affordable rental income or a private living space without major ADU construction in San Diego. Because it uses existing structures, a J-ADU is usually faster to build and less expensive than detached or full-sized ADUs.
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Key Benefits of ADU Construction in San Diego
- Extra Income. Rent out your ADU for steady monthly earnings.
- More Living Space. Create a private suite for family, guests, or aging parents.
- Higher Property Value. Adding an ADU can boost resale value by a lot.
- Flexible Use. Use it as a home office, rental, or future retirement space.
- Legal and Simple. San Diego’s ADU-friendly laws make building easier than ever.
- Energy Efficient. All units include solar and modern features that lower utility costs.
- Faster Approval. With pre-approved plans, you’ll save lots of time and money.
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Our ADU Construction Process
Building an ADU can get complicated if you don’t have a professional team on your side. Our team handles everything – from design and permits to ADU construction services and final inspection, so you don’t have to stress about anything at all.
Our process begins with a free consultation where we learn about your goals and review your property. During this visit, our San Diego ADU construction specialists complete a free feasibility study to confirm what can be built based on zoning, setbacks, and access. We’ll help you understand design options, budget expectations, and the overall process. All with no cost or commitment, just honest help to get your project started right.
After your consultation, you’ll choose the ADU floor plans and style. OneStop ADU offers a range of ready-to-build layouts with curated finishes and three exterior designs - Contemporary, Craftsman, and Spanish/Mediterranean. These pre-designed options save time and make permitting easier. If you’re looking for something unique, we can also create a custom ADU just for you. Keep in mind, fully custom designs require extra time and cost for planning and approvals.
Once your design and layout are finalized, our team prepares the complete construction documents and submits them for city review. After receiving permit approval, we move straight into building your ADU. We manage every step with licensed professionals and regular updates so you don’t have to worry about anything.
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Get Started with Your ADU Construction Project
OneStop ADU is the trusted ADU contractor that handles everything from design and permits to construction and final inspection. With pre-approved plans, curated finishes, and a simple process, we make it easy to build a beautiful, compliant backyard home. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Contact our ADU construction company today to schedule your free consultation – your new ADU is right behind the corner!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is ADU Construction
ADU construction is the process of building an Accessory Dwelling Unit, which is a fully independent secondary home located on the same lot as a primary residence. This can include detached backyard cottages, attached additions, or conversions of existing spaces such as garages or basements. ADU construction adds value by creating flexible housing for family members, generating rental income, and contributing to more affordable housing options. OneStop ADU manages the entire construction process, ensuring each unit is built efficiently, legally, and to the highest quality standards.
What Are the Key Regulations in San Diego
In San Diego, ADUs can be built up to 1,200 sq ft, with side and rear setbacks starting at 4 feet (or zero for units under 16 feet tall). Up to one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) are typically allowed on single-family lots, and parking is not required if the property is within ½ mile of public transit. Owner-occupancy is generally not required, and all ADUs must meet local building, fire, and energy codes. OneStop ADU ensures every project complies with these regulations while maximizing property potential.
What Factors Influence the Cost of an ADU
The cost of an ADU is influenced by several factors, including design complexity and permitting requirements, which can add time and fees. Site-specific conditions, such as grading, soil reports, or limited access, may increase construction costs. Utility hookups for water, sewer, and electricity can also vary widely depending on the property. Finally, construction materials and interior finishes play a major role, with higher-end selections raising the overall budget. OneStop ADU provides transparent pricing and guidance to help homeowners plan their ADU project with confidence.
How Long Does It Take to Build an ADU
Building an ADU typically takes 8 to 12 months, though the timeline can range from as little as 4 months to over a year depending on design complexity, permitting, and construction conditions. The process includes design and planning, city approvals, site preparation, construction, and final inspections. OneStop ADU manages every phase to streamline the experience and deliver high-quality results on schedule.
Do You Need a Permit for an ADU
Yes, you need a permit to build an ADU, as all units must comply with local building, zoning, and safety codes. The permitting process typically includes plan review, approvals for utilities, and inspections during construction. OneStop ADU handles the entire permitting process for homeowners, ensuring the ADU is fully approved and built to meet all legal requirements.
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