An ADU is a complete, self-contained home on the same property as your main house. It has its own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and entrance, and it can have its own electric meter. Think of it as a small apartment on your lot. It can be detached (a backyard cottage), attached to your home, or created by converting existing space such as a garage. San Diego’s city government calls these “companion units.”

Here a few things to consider: 1. An ADU requires a backyard space that can fit a 20’x 24’ footprint, plus a minimum of seven feet of clearance between your home and the new structure. 2. If you have an existing detached garage, it can be removed and replaced with an ADU 3. You can choose to keep your garage (if you have enough accessible, additional space), you can build a stand-alone ADU separate from other structures. 4. Its best to contact us for a complimentary ADU consultation.

An ADU is an investment that pays for itself, and delivers even more value when you sell your home. In many cases showing an income generating ADU can help increase your property value by $140,000 or more.

Yes. ADUs are commonly built for rental income or to house family, and both options are common. Owner occupancy is not required in the City of San Diego or in San Diego County, so you can rent either the ADU or the main home. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are generally restricted, so check your local rules before planning around Airbnb-style use.

An ADU is an investment that pays for itself, and delivers even more value when you sell your home. The ADU will improve your property value and perceived living space, but if the ADU also has verified income, that is very attractive to a potential buyer - that means your property may sell faster than other properties on the market.