Frequently asked

ADU questions, answered

Clear answers about building an ADU in the Sacramento area: what you can build, what it costs, and what to expect. Wondering how to pay for it? See our financing options.

What is an ADU?

An ADU is a small second home on the same lot as your main house. It has its own kitchen, bathroom, and front door. People also call it a granny flat, in-law suite, backyard cottage, or guest house. You can rent it out, move family in, or use it however you want. It's a permanent part of your property.

What is a Junior ADU (JADU), and how is it different from a regular ADU?

A Junior ADU is a smaller unit, up to 500 square feet, built inside your existing home. A spare bedroom, finished garage, or basement can become one. It's one of the cheapest ways to add a second unit. A JADU needs its own outside door and a small kitchen. It can share a bathroom with the main house. A regular ADU has its own kitchen and bathroom and can be attached or detached. Both are legal in the Sacramento area. We'll help you pick the right one for your home.

Can I legally build an ADU on my property in the Sacramento area?

Yes, for most single-family homes. California law gives you the right to build at least one ADU and one Junior ADU. Your city or county sets the local rules on size, design, and how close you can build to the property line. Enter your ZIP code on our home page. We'll tell you what's allowed on your lot in minutes. We serve 24 ZIP codes across the Sacramento region.

How big can my ADU be?

California allows detached ADUs up to 1,200 square feet. Local rules may set a smaller limit based on your lot size. An attached ADU can be up to 50% of your main home's size. A Junior ADU maxes out at 500 square feet. Most ADUs we build run from a 400-square-foot studio to a 750-square-foot two-bedroom. We'll look at your lot and tell you the exact size that fits.

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Northern California?

It depends on size and finishes. A garage conversion usually runs $80,000 to $150,000. A new detached ADU usually runs $150,000 to $300,000. That price covers design, permits, and the full build. After a site visit, we send you a clear written price within 24 hours, with no guesses and no surprises. See our financing page for ADU loans, HELOCs, and state grants that may lower your out-of-pocket cost.

How long does it take to build an ADU?

Plan on 6 to 12 months for a new detached ADU. A garage conversion or Junior ADU takes 3 to 6 months. Design and permits take 2 to 4 months. The build itself takes 3 to 6 months. Timing depends on your city. Sacramento approves ADUs faster than some smaller counties. We handle the whole process, including filing for permits and inspections. You won't have to chase anyone.

What are the most popular ways homeowners use their ADUs?

Most of our clients build for one of these reasons: rental income (a one-bedroom rents for $1,200 to $1,800 a month here), a home for aging parents, space for adult children, or to grow long-term property value. Some owners move into the ADU and rent out the main house. This works well for people heading into retirement. We're happy to walk through the numbers for your situation.

What does the process look like if I hire you?

Simple. Start by entering your ZIP code on our home page so we can confirm we serve your area. Next, we book a site visit, usually within a few days. Within 24 hours after the visit, we send you a written proposal. If you move forward, we handle everything: design, engineering, permits, and the build. You'll have one main contact the whole way. We're a licensed and insured general contractor in California (CSL #993478).