Alvarez Builders
Landscaped backyard with a covered patio and room for a custom ADU
Accessory Dwelling Units

More home.
More value. More options.

A custom ADU is one of the smartest investments a Bay Area homeowner can make. We design and build detached units, attached suites, garage conversions, and JADUs, fully permitted, start to finish.

Why an ADU

Space that works as hard as you do.

Whether you're looking to generate rental income, create a private space for family, or add long-term value to your property, an Accessory Dwelling Unit delivers, and recent California law has made them easier to build than ever.

We treat every ADU with the same craftsmanship as a full custom home, scaled to your lot and your goals. From the first feasibility study to the final inspection, you have one accountable team managing every detail.

01

Rental income

A well-built ADU can generate meaningful monthly rental income and often pays for itself over time in Bay Area rental markets.

02

Property value

Adding legal, permitted square footage is one of the most reliable ways to increase the long-term value of your property.

03

Multigenerational living

Keep family close with comfort and privacy, a true second home for aging parents, adult children, or guests.

04

Flexible space

A dedicated home office, studio, or gym today that can convert to a rental or in-law suite tomorrow.

Types of ADU

The right unit for your lot

Every property is different. We help you choose the type of ADU that best fits your space, budget, and goals.

Detached ADUUp to 1,200 sq ft · 1–3 bed

Detached ADU

A free-standing home in your backyard with its own entrance, kitchen, and bath. Maximum privacy and rental appeal.

Attached ADUSized to your lot · 1–2 bed

Attached ADU

A new addition connected to your existing home, sharing a wall but with a separate, private entrance.

Garage conversionExisting footprint · Studio–2 bed

Garage conversion

Transform an underused garage into a fully livable, code-compliant dwelling, often the most cost-effective option.

Junior ADU (JADU)Up to 500 sq ft · Studio

Junior ADU (JADU)

A compact unit (up to 500 sq ft) carved from your home's existing space, a streamlined, lower-cost path to a second unit.

Start to finish

Your ADU, fully managed

We handle every step so you don't have to coordinate architects, engineers, the city, and trades on your own.

  1. 01

    Feasibility & site review

    We assess your lot, setbacks, utilities, and local rules to confirm what's buildable, and what it will realistically cost.

  2. 02

    Design & engineering

    We develop a layout that maximizes livability and rental value, then complete the structural and MEP engineering.

  3. 03

    Permitting

    We prepare the full submittal package and manage the city approval process, including any utility and planning requirements.

  4. 04

    Construction

    Foundation, framing, systems, and finishes, built by a dedicated crew with regular updates and rigorous quality control.

  5. 05

    Final sign-off & handover

    Final inspections, certificate of occupancy, a walkthrough, and the keys to a unit that's ready to live in or rent.

Good to know

ADU questions, answered

Have a question that isn't here? We're happy to walk you through it on a free consultation.

How long does an ADU take to build?
Most projects run roughly 8–14 months end to end, depending on the type of ADU, your city's permitting timeline, and design complexity. Garage conversions and JADUs are typically faster; detached new construction takes longer.
Do I need a separate lot or to subdivide?
No. ADUs are built on your existing single-family or multifamily lot, so no subdivision is required. California state law specifically allows ADUs on most residential properties.
How big can my ADU be?
It depends on your lot and local rules, but detached ADUs are commonly permitted up to around 1,200 sq ft. We confirm the exact allowance for your property during the feasibility review.
Can I rent it out?
Yes. A legal, permitted ADU can be rented as a long-term unit, providing ongoing income. We design with rentability in mind: private entrances, efficient layouts, and durable finishes.
How much does an ADU cost?
Costs vary widely with size, type, finishes, and site conditions. After a site visit we provide a transparent, line-item estimate so you can make an informed decision before committing.
Do you handle the permits?
Yes. We manage the entire process, from drawings and submittals to inspections and final sign-off, so you don't have to navigate the city on your own.

See what's possible on your lot.

Book a free ADU feasibility consultation and we'll review your property, your goals, and your options.