Backyard Unlimited has experience building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) in Los Angeles and its surrounding cities and communities in California. Our team has produced a total of X units in the Los Angeles area, showcasing some of our most popular ADU designs like the Tehachapi and Klamath.
Led by Nathan, our Los Angeles builders provide a seamless experience in the construction and installation of your ADU. We invite you to meet our team and start making your unique vision for living come to life.
Browse ADU Models
Need some inspiration on what’s possible with Accessory Dwelling Units? Browse some of our ADU models popular in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that these serve as a jumping-off point and each ADU is customized to your space, needs, and design aesthetic.
Sierra
The Sierra is a 400 square foot, one-bedroom, studio-style ADU.
Starting at: $122,000
Shasta
The Shasta is an 1200 square foot, three-bedroom, three-bathroom ADU.
Starting at: $366,000
Cascade
The Cascade is a 600 square foot, one-bedroom, one bathroom ADU.
Starting at: $183,000
Klamath
Popular in Northern California, the Klamath adds functionality and practicality in a warm, inviting space.
Starting at: $231,600
Tehachapi
A popular model that includes 2 beds, 2 baths, and full kitchen & living space in a small footprint.
Starting at: $224,175
Linn
The Linn is a 750 square foot, two-bedroom, one bathroom ADU.
Starting at: $228,750
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles?
That’s a common question for homeowners looking to maximize their property value. As real estate costs continue to rise, ADUs are quickly becoming one of the most popular forms of housing in Los Angeles. ADUs provide additional livable space in areas where smaller, more affordable housing is hard to find.
Generally, the cost of an ADU in Los Angeles depends on the size of the ADU, the architect’s fee, the complexity of the project, and the local economy. As an example, if the average cost per square foot is $300 or $400, then a 600 sq. ft. ADU would cost between $180,000 and $240,000. If the architect charges 8% of the total cost, that’s a fee of $14,000 to $19,500. For comparison, at Backyard Unlimited the total costs for design and drafting is typically around $5,500.
Many factors affect the final price of an ADU. We’ll walk you through all the steps needed to build an ADU, and we’ll break down what goes into each of the costs to help you better understand and prepare for your investment.
How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Los Angeles?
In the City of Los Angeles, an ADU permit costs in the range of $1,800 and $8,000, depending on the estimated value of the construction and the total square footage the ADU will add to your property.
What Are Los Angeles’ Requirements for ADUs?
Los Angeles’ requirements for ADUs include specific regulations that govern the size, placement, and features of your ADU design. These regulations include:
Location. Owners are required to have an existing or proposed single-family home or an existing multi-family building on the property before adding an ADU. Typically, if your property allows for residential uses, an ADU is also allowed.
Lot size. There is no minimum lot size.
Number of ADUs. Generally, one or two ADUs are permitted on a property with a single-family home.
Maximum size of ADU. Maximum sizes vary and depend on whether your ADU is freestanding or attached to your existing home.
Maximum height. Commonly, an ADU is one story and 16 feet high.
How Our ADU Design & Construction Process Works
The first and most important thing you’ll need to do is to find out if your property qualifies for an ADU by contacting Los Angeles City Planning. Once you receive confirmation, our team takes over to continue the process, beginning with a free initial consultation. Remaining steps include:
– 3D Design Creation
– Drafting & Engineering
– Permitting
– Construction
Designing and building an Accessory Dwelling Unit can be a lengthy process. Our expert team’s designing, drafting, and engineering skills help streamline construction tasks to get your ADU completed efficiently. From initial contact to final inspection, most of our ADU projects in Los Angeles are finished in under 1 year.
Benefits of ADUs for LA Homeowners
Los Angeles residents have always been looking for ways to add affordable housing options, turning garages and carriage houses into in-law quarters or small homes to rent. See how the next generation of LA property owners are benefiting from new ADUs.
“It was a one stop shop”
“I found Backyard Unlimited on the web in 2019. I was immediately drawn to them because of their ability to do drawing submittals as well as the construction of an ADU. It was a one stop shop and now that my ADU is complete I can say I am very satisfied with the service, quality and most importantly their ability to honor the price that was in contract. The permitting and plan submittal was the most time consuming part of the process and it did have to do with me requesting a major change in the plans due to new setback rules that would benefit my ADU. Max was supportive and understanding of the changes and once I finally got the permit, it was a matter of scheduling to break ground. Unfortunately it was rainy season and covid which delayed the start. Once it started, things progressed and inspection with city inspectors went well. Because the ADU was in the peninsula in San Mateo County, the scheduling was a little tricky since they drive from the Sacrameto area, but it didn’t bother me that much. What I was most looking for was for the ADU to be built properly, pass inspection, stay within budget and for them to stand behind the quality of the work. I’m happy to say, all those criteria were met. I didn’t go over budget. No major issues with the city inspector were found. I notified them of some quality corrections and they immediately acknowledged and responded which demonstrated to me they have ongoing care and pride in what they do. I would use Backyard Unlimited again in the future and I would definitely recommend them to my friends and family. Good luck on your projects.
Michael Wong (Google Review) (San Mateo, CA)
