More Space, More Income, More Freedom — Right in Your Backyard
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is one of the smartest investments a Los Angeles homeowner can make. Whether you're looking to generate rental income, create a private space for aging parents or adult children, build a dedicated home office, or simply add long-term value to your property, an ADU delivers on every front.
Thanks to California's progressive ADU laws, building an ADU has never been more accessible. Streamlined permitting, removed parking requirements, and statewide protections mean homeowners across LA County can add a fully independent living unit to their property — whether it's a garage conversion, an attached addition, or a brand-new detached structure.
At Amerbuild, we've spent over 25 years helping homeowners navigate the design, permitting, and construction process. From the first site visit to the final inspection, we manage every detail so you can focus on the result — a beautifully built ADU that pays for itself for decades to come.
Why Build an ADU? The Benefits Are Real
An ADU is one of the smartest investments a California homeowner can make. Here's why thousands of Los Angeles homeowners are adding them.
Rental Income
Generate $1,500 to $3,500+ per month in passive rental income, helping cover your mortgage or fund your retirement.
Increased Property Value
ADUs can increase your property value by 20-30%. In Los Angeles, that often translates to $150,000 to $300,000+ in added equity.
Multigenerational Living
Keep aging parents close or give adult children their own space. ADUs provide independence and privacy while maintaining family proximity.
Streamlined Permitting
California's ADU laws have removed many barriers — no parking requirements, no owner-occupancy mandates, and reduced fees. We handle all permitting for you.
Address the Housing Crisis
ADUs add gentle density to existing neighborhoods, helping address LA's housing shortage without changing neighborhood character.
Flexible Use
Use your ADU as a rental, home office, guest suite, art studio, or caregiver quarters. The versatility makes it a smart investment for any lifestyle.
ADU & Garage Conversions in Los Angeles
Unlock your property's full potential with a professionally built Accessory Dwelling Unit. Whether you're converting your garage or building from the ground up, Amerbuild handles design, permits, and construction — so you don't have to.
Get a Free ConsultationTypes of ADUs We Build
California's progressive ADU laws have opened the door for homeowners to add value, space, and income to their properties. We specialize in every type of ADU project.
Attached ADU
An attached ADU is built as an extension of your existing home, sharing at least one wall. This is ideal for homeowners who want to add a self-contained living space — complete with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance — without using additional yard space. Attached ADUs are often the most cost-effective option since they leverage your home's existing foundation and utilities.
Garage Conversion to ADU
Converting your existing garage into a livable ADU is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to add a dwelling unit to your property. California law prohibits cities from requiring replacement parking when converting a garage to an ADU. We handle the full transformation — insulation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, flooring, and finishes — turning an underused space into a comfortable home.
Detached ADU
A detached ADU is a standalone structure built separately from your main home, offering maximum privacy for both occupants. Up to 1,200 square feet under California law, detached ADUs can include full kitchens, bathrooms, multiple bedrooms, and spacious living areas — essentially functioning as a complete second home on your property. Because they're freestanding, you have far more design flexibility for layout, window placement, and architectural style, allowing the unit to either match your existing home or stand on its own as a modern accent. Detached ADUs also tend to command the highest rents and add the most resale value, making them ideal for rental income, aging parents, adult children seeking independence, or homeowners planning to downsize in place while renting out the main house.
Multifamily ADU
California law now allows ADUs on multifamily properties such as duplexes, triplexes, and apartment buildings. Owners can convert non-livable spaces (laundry rooms, storage, basements) into ADUs and add up to two detached ADUs to the lot. This is a powerful strategy for property investors looking to maximize rental units and returns without a full redevelopment.
Our ADU & Garage Conversion Projects
See how we've helped Los Angeles homeowners transform their properties with professionally built ADUs and garage conversions.
Garage Conversion — Woodland Hills
Full garage-to-ADU conversion with modern kitchen, bathroom, and private entrance.
Detached ADU — Altadena
1,200 sq ft detached ADU with two bedrooms, full kitchen, and landscaped patio.
Attached ADU — Pacific Palisades
Attached ADU addition with seamless architectural integration and private entrance.
Junior ADU — Santa Monica
500 sq ft junior ADU converted from existing bedroom with efficiency kitchen and private bath.
Our ADU Design-Build Process
From initial feasibility to handing you the keys, our streamlined process takes the complexity out of building an ADU.
Free Site Assessment
We visit your property, evaluate your lot for ADU feasibility, review setback requirements, and discuss your goals — whether it's rental income, family housing, or a home office.
Design & Engineering
Our architects create custom floor plans, 3D renderings, and structural engineering documents. We optimize every square foot while ensuring code compliance with California ADU regulations.
Permit Acquisition
We prepare and submit all permit applications, handle plan check corrections, and coordinate with the city until your permits are approved. No headaches for you.
Construction
Our licensed crew handles foundation, framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and all interior finishes. We keep you informed with regular progress updates and a clear timeline.
Final Inspection & Handover
We schedule city inspections, address any final items, and walk you through your completed ADU. You receive all documentation, warranties, and certificates of occupancy.
What Our Clients Say
ADU Insights & Resources
Stay informed with the latest on ADU regulations, design trends, and smart investment strategies for Los Angeles homeowners.
The Complete Guide to Building an ADU in Los Angeles
Everything you need to know about ADU types, California laws, permitting, costs, financing, and ROI — a comprehensive resource for Los Angeles homeowners considering an ADU project.
Read Article
Should You Build an ADU? How to Decide If It's Right for Your Property
Not sure if an ADU makes sense for you? Learn how to evaluate your lot, run the numbers, weigh lifestyle factors, and determine whether an ADU is the right investment.
Read Article
How to Finance Your ADU: Loans, Grants & Tax Incentives
Explore financing options for your ADU project including home equity loans, construction loans, CalHFA ADU grants, and local incentive programs available to Los Angeles homeowners.
Coming SoonADU & Garage Conversion FAQ
ADU costs in Los Angeles vary based on type and size. Garage conversions typically range from $100,000 to $200,000, while detached new-build ADUs can range from $150,000 to $400,000+. Factors include size, finishes, utility connections, and site conditions. Amerbuild provides detailed, transparent estimates during your free consultation.
Yes. All garage conversions to ADUs require building permits to ensure compliance with California building codes, including fire safety, plumbing, electrical, and egress requirements. Under California's ADU laws (AB 2221, SB 897), the permitting process has been streamlined, and Amerbuild handles the entire permit acquisition process for you.
A garage conversion typically takes 3 to 5 months from permits to completion. A new detached ADU may take 6 to 10 months depending on complexity. The permitting phase alone can take 4 to 8 weeks. Amerbuild's design-build approach helps minimize delays by coordinating design, permits, and construction under one roof.
Under current California law, detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 square feet. Attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the existing home's living area, with a minimum allowance of 800 square feet. Junior ADUs (JADUs) are limited to 500 square feet within the existing footprint. Local ordinances may vary, and Amerbuild ensures your project meets all applicable regulations.
Yes. ADUs in Los Angeles can be rented out as long-term rentals. California law prohibits HOAs from banning ADUs and prevents cities from requiring owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after January 1, 2020. An ADU is one of the best investments for generating passive rental income while increasing your property value.
Building an ADU will trigger a reassessment only on the new construction — not your entire property. The increase is based on the added value of the ADU itself. Given the rental income potential and property value boost, most homeowners find the return on investment far outweighs the modest tax increase.
Ready to Build Your ADU? Get Your Free Consultation Today
Whether you're looking to generate rental income, house a family member, or simply maximize your property's value, Amerbuild has the expertise to make it happen. With 25+ years of experience and deep knowledge of California ADU laws, we handle everything from design to final inspection.
Contact us today for a free site assessment and ADU consultation in Los Angeles, Altadena, Pacific Palisades, or anywhere in Greater LA.