REAL ESTATE

Knowing More About ADU Types & Construction Cost

Are you thinking of converting your garage into a master bedroom or building a separate ADU? Here, you get to know how much an ADU costs and what are the different types of Granny Flats. They go by various names, such as Accessory Dwelling Units, Granny Flats, Mother-in-law suites, etc. And, you can construct them in various sizes, dimensions and designs. Well, there are various costs associated with an ADU. It can be in the form of permit fees, architectural plans, land development, etc. you need to be aware of all these aspects. Here in San Jose, CA, there are general remodelers and ADU contractors that help build such self-sufficient dwelling units within a property.

Various ADU Types

  • Attached ADU
  • Detached ADU
  • Semi-detached
  • Garage Conversion types

These are the various types of ‘Granny Flats’ that can be built within an existing property. The most common ones are by converting unused lying garages in the courtyard or backyard. What’s more, it costs less than a regular accessory dwelling unit that is built from the scratch. It is because the necessary infrastructure and foundation/base is already in-place. So, you don’t have to spend on a new foundation construction. Those who do not have the luxury of having a spare garage converted into an ADU, goes for a new construction. Whether it is an attached or detached format, an ADU conversion in San Jose, CA, is carried out by following all the legal guidelines and technical parameters. All the necessary permits are obtained. This is the sole reason why you need to contact a certified general contractor in San Jose, CA.

How Much Does it Cost?

This is the most common question among homeowners, it all depends upon the size of an ADU and the amount of work that is being done. The more the work, fittings, fixtures & hardware, the higher the price and associated costs. Only an expert home remodeling contractor in San Jose, CA, would be able to answer your questions regarding exact costs. A garage conversion is the cheapest option, because the framework of the building or structure already exists. If it is in the courtyard with easy access to the sewer, it becomes even cheaper. Just some new wall claddings, electric work, painting and plumbing, your garage is good to reside.

A garage conversion in San Jose, CA, can cost anything between $18,000 – $20,000 as “pre-construction” expenses. It includes architectural floor plans, engineering plans, electric plans and various other permits & fees. Such plans & permits are required at your local municipal authority to get the ADU construction work approved. And, after everything gets approved, a decent quality garage conversion can cost anything between $100,000 – $150,000. This includes a kitchen, bathroom, master bedroom, dining and a living room.

Whereas, an attached ADU can cost anything between $200,000 – $220,000 depending upon the size & dimension. It is excluding the pre-construction expenses in the form of permits and fees. You need to submit a full set of plans of approval to the local permitting authority.

Last but not the least, a detached ADU can cost anything between $280,000 – $300,000, as here you can build a big ADU, in the size of 750-800 sq. ft. or even bigger, say to the tune of 1000 sq. ft. So, anything big means more materials, fittings & fixtures, and of course, more time. Thus, the expenses also go up. The choice is yours.

So, by reading this article, you might have got a fair idea about the types of ADUs and how much it cost to construct an accessory dwelling unit at home.