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Checklist for Building Your San Diego ADU

One of the most important things that you should know about is the different factors that you should consider when building an ADU. Here are some of the key factors:

The Reason Why You Want to Build an ADU

The Reason Why You Want to Build an ADU

It is important that you have a clear idea about why you want to build an ADU. Building an ADU is a major investment, so you would want it achieve the objectives perfectly. Our team will help you understand what you need to do if you are looking to get rental income out of your unit, or just looking to use it to increase the price of your property.

The Current Design and Layout of Your Home

The Current Design and Layout of Your Home

Even if you are building a detached ADU, you need to make sure that it feels like a part of your main home. This is the reason why it is important to consider the design of your home. If you are building an attached ADU or a garage conversion, then it is important to analyze the structure as well. During our initial consultation, your existing home will be thoroughly assessed and suitable recommendations will be made based on that assessment.

The Cost of Building ADU

The Cost

We have seen many homeowners grossly underestimate the cost of building an ADU. When building such a unit, it is important to have an idea about the budget. This would allow you to identify the areas where you can spend, as well as the areas where you can save money. When you hire us to build your San Diego ADU, you will get a detailed estimate of the costs so that you can make the choices accordingly.

The ADU Zoning Laws

The Zoning Laws

To build an ADU in San Diego, you would need to get building permits from the City office and for that, you would need to follow the zoning codes. You would also need to follow fire and other safety codes as well. This is perhaps the most challenging aspect of building an ADU. When we are designing your project, we will make sure that all the relevant rules and regulations are followed so to avoid any issues later on.

Types of ADUs We Can Help You Build

At ADU Contractors, we help you build a San Diego ADU that meets your requirements. Here are some of the different kinds of ADUs that we help you build

Detached ADU

Detached ADU

A detached Accessory Dwelling Unit is a structure that is separate from the main home. They are like mini-home, complete with utility connections and even with their own parking. They are suited for a wide range of purposes, including in-law space or as accommodation for long-term and short-term rentals.

Attached ADU

Attached ADU

These types of units are attached to the main home, although they might have a separate entry/exit. These are normally used as an extension of the living space and can be converted into a home office, an additional bedroom, or similar purposes. Since they are built as an attachment to the main property, an additional structural analysis will be required and safety codes will need to be followed.

Garage Conversion

Garage Conversion

Garage conversion refers to the process of changing your garage into something other than storage or parking. You can convert it to an additional bedroom or an entertainment space or a business center. It would add more living space making it convenient for your family and for increasing the value of the property.

ADU Interior Conversion

ADU Interior Conversion

At ADU Contractors, we understand that every home is different, and so are your requirements. That is the reason why we offer customized services that would be the perfect fit for your needs. Contact us or visit our services page to know more.

The Legal Requirements for a San Diego ADU

The legal requirements for building an ADU in San Diego are mentioned in Senate Bill 13, Assembly Bill 68, Assembly Bill 670, Assembly Bill 881, and preceding ADU legislation, as passed by the State of California.

General Requirements

In most cases, however, an ADU is required to be smaller than the principal home and must contain the following independent elements from the primary house:

  • A separate entry/egress
  • A kitchen that is complete with a sink, cooking appliances, counter surface, and ample number of storage cupboards
  • An area for the bed.
  • At least a 3/4 Bath and adequate facilities
  • A living area of at least 150 square feet

ADUs are classified as part of the single-family dwelling for fire and life safety legislation and hence, adequate measures should be taken. You should note that fire sprinklers will not be required in ADUs if they are not required for the principal dwelling, i.e. the main home

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    Additional Requirements

    Apart from the ones mentioned above, here are some other restrictions that you should need to follow:

    1

    Limits on Height and Property Line Setbacks for a Single-Story ADU

    When you are building a single-story San Diego ADU, then you need to keep in mind that it can only be 16 feet tall with a 4-foot setback on both sides and as well as on the back.

    2

    Limits on Height and Setbacks for a Two-Story ADU

    On the other hand, when you are building a two-story ADU is laid out by the municipal legislation of San Diego.

    3

    Lot Requirements and Coverage

    You don’t need to follow any minimum lot size limits or coverage limitations when building an ADU.

    4

    Utility Costs for Conversions

    You don’t need to get any new or separate utility connections or pay any additional fees for connection and capacity when the ADU is not installed within an existing structure (main or auxiliary).

    What Our Happy Customers Say?

    We are committed to offering perfect services that put a smile on the face of our customers. Here is what some of our customers say about us:

    Houzz Review

    Oliver Schmitt



    When me and my wife was planning to build an ADU on our property, ADU Contractors was the first company we called. We never regretted our decision. They completed the entire project well within our time.

    Houzz Review

    Peter Behringer



    No one comes close to them when it comes to ADU construction in San Diego. They never gave me a chance to complain.

    Get Complete Help for Permits and Financing

    Building an ADU is only a part of the project, there are a lot of aspects that are critical to the success of the project.

    Get Help for Permits and Financial

    One of the most important aspect is getting the permits. The process of getting the building permits itself can be divided into multiple stages. At the first stage, you would need to know about your zoning laws and ensure that your design conforms to the rules. At the next stage of the process, you would need to apply at the local city office by submitting the designs and the related paperwork. You will also need to schedule inspections by the City Inspector. Upon a successful final inspection, you will get the certificate of occupancy. You will get help at every stage of the permit application process – right from submitting the application to getting the final approval.

    If you are looking for the right financing options, then we will help you choose the right one as well. There are a lot of options that you can try out, including HELOC, Home Equity Loan, Cash-out refinance, and the like. You can also explore the possibility of getting the CalHFA ADU grant. Get expert advice that would help you assess the pros and cons of each option so that you can make a better choice.

    The Steps We Follow for Building Your San Diego ADU

    Here is an overview of the steps that we follow to build your dream ADU in San Diego.

    1. 1

      Initial Consultation –

      A detailed discussion is made with you and your family to understand your goals and vision.

    2. 2

      Design and Estimate –

      Multiple 3D Designs are prepared that would help you to envision the finished project better. Once you approve the design, a detailed cost estimate is provided.

    3. 3

      Permit Application –

      At the next stage, the permit applications are made to the local city office.

    4. 4

      Site Preparation –

      The site is prepared so to avoid any risk of damage to your existing property or inconvenience to your family.

    5. 5

      Construction –

      Here, the actual process of construction will begin. All the materials will be procured at various stages to ensure the project stays on time.

    6. 6

      Final Approval –

      A final inspection is conducted by the city office and once that is completed, you will get the certificate of occupation and move into your new ADU

    Steps in Building ADU in San Diego
    Take the First Step in Building the Right ADU