An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as a primary single-family home. Often called cottages or coach houses, they feature a full kitchen, bathroom, and living area, providing independent living space. ADUs can be detached cottages, attached additions, a loft, junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs), or converted interior spaces, such as basements or garages.
An add-on unit added to the side or top of the existing house, sharing a common wall.
Transforming an attached or detached garage into living space. This is often one of the more affordable options.
ADUs can serve multiple purposes such as providing rental income, allowing for multigenerational housing,
guest housing, or home office space. Many homeowners opt for a design-build approach for ADU construction. This is a construction project delivery method where a design-build team handles both the design and construction services under a single contract. This method simplifies communication, reduces risk for the homeowner, and streamlines schedules by integrating designers, engineers, and builders from project inception.
An ADU builder or ADU construction company can provide a design-build approach with services such as
end-to-end project management, feasibility assessment, design coordination, site evaluation, permitting, and construction. It is important to select a reputable California ADU builder familiar with California-specific permitting, regulations, and zoning considerations, due to the complexities of state, local, and city laws.
Homeowners should expect a professional, trustworthy approach from a residential ADU builder that offers free estimates and full-service responsibility of the project, including site evaluation, design coordination, permitting, and construction oversight from start to finish for a smooth client experience. ADUs in California are effectively new residential structures, requiring coordination of the foundation, utilities, and structural systems.
Professional ADU contractors provide a detailed contract with a line-item budget, transparent timelines covering 6–12 months, clear communication on expectations, comprehensive project planning, and expert navigation of ADU property requirements for city, local, and state regulations. Experienced ADU builders help identify feasibility constraints early on, such as lot size, access, utilities, permitting, and zoning limitations.
This leads to better overall outcomes, reduced risk, smoother city, local, and state approvals and appeals, and a more predictable and reliable build process.
At Gilor Remodeling Group, we are experienced ADU builders that set ourselves apart from other home renovation companies by prioritizing your goals and desires with each project. We are committed to client satisfaction. As a custom ADU builder, we ensure a timely and budget-conscious project from start to finish.
At Gilor we begin each client interaction with a free estimate of the work to be performed. We will provide a feasibility assessment evaluating property constraints and goals for your project, whether it is a garage conversion ADU, attached ADU, interior ADU, or backyard ADU construction.
We then review an ADU design covering layout, plans, and specifications. We cover the entire permitting and ADU zoning requirements process for your project ensuring full city, local, and state compliance. Gilor conducts pre-construction planning finalizing the scope, materials, and schedule. We initiate construction, see the project through, and perform a final walkthrough with you to ensure completion aligns with your expectations.
We have found this method superior, as early planning helps ensure code compliance, accurate scoping, and realistic budgeting, reducing the likelihood of unexpected changes or delays during construction. At Gilor Remodeling Group, we coordinate schedules, manage inspections, and maintain workflow efficiency throughout the build, so you don’t have to worry.
We factor in permitting timelines and requirements, which can vary by city and locality, into our planning process, as this may impact overall project duration. We always clearly communicate project status to you, providing regular updates and milestone tracking to keep you informed as the project progresses smoothly.
Gilor is your number one choice for an accessory dwelling unit builder. We provide homeowners free estimates, exceptional project management, quality craftsmanship, and coordinated design execution. We ensure each phase of the project is handled with quality, structure, and attention to detail. Gilor is committed as a detached ADU builder and attached ADU construction company to delivering functional, well-designed living spaces that balance layout efficiency, usability, and long-term value.
We accomplish this through our ability to manage projects from initial concept and planning through design, coordination, and final construction, providing a more streamlined experience for homeowners. We feel you will find us to be a reliable partner for complex residential construction projects, capable of navigating multiple phases, trades, and project requirements with consistency and accountability. Contact us today to learn more.
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained residential living space on the same property as a primary residence, featuring its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance. ADUs provide flexible housing for family, guests, rental income, or specialized workspaces. They provide homeowners with options as household needs change. ADUs cannot be sold separately from the main house.
Building an ADU in California varies based on design, permitting, complexity, site conditions, and construction scope. Permitting and approvals can significantly affect the timeline. Generally, it takes 10–18 months from start to finish. Construction itself may take 4–8 months, with 2–6 months for design and permitting. Faster options, such as garage conversions, may take 3–6 months, while custom builds can take 6–12+ months.
Yes. Garage conversions are a common ADU option. The feasibility depends on the structure, layout, and local regulations. Conversions can be more efficient than ground-up builds in some cases.