Your ADU.
Built Right.
From $140k.
Add a legal income unit to your property. We handle everything — design, permits, and construction — across all of Southern California. You choose the model. We build it.
Your property is worth more
than you think.
ADUs across Southern California command strong rental rates — especially in the Valley, Westside, and South Bay.
A permitted ADU immediately adds substantial equity to your property — and qualifies for refinancing in many cases.
Rental income typically recoups your full ADU investment within a decade. Then it's pure income.
Pick a layout. We build it.
Every model includes full design, engineering, permits, and a complete build-out — no surprises, no change orders.
Garage Conversion
Transform your existing garage into a fully permitted, income-generating living space. Fastest path to an ADU — no new foundation required, and significantly faster permitting than a detached build.
Studio ADU
A sleek detached studio with everything needed — open kitchen, living area, full bath, and private entrance. Commands strong rental rates across Southern California. Highest rent-to-cost ratio of any ADU type.
1-Bedroom ADU
The sweet spot. A proper bedroom, open living area, full kitchen, and in-unit laundry. Commands premium rental rates across Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, and the South Bay.
2-Bedroom ADU
A full home on your property. Two bedrooms, two baths, open kitchen, dining area. Highest monthly rental income. Ideal for multigenerational living or long-term tenants.
Modern Farmhouse
Board-and-batten siding, black windows, covered porch — a standalone farmhouse aesthetic that elevates your entire property and commands premium rents across any Southern California neighborhood.
Three steps. One contractor.
Done.
We built our process to feel like buying a car — pick your model, sign once, and we handle everything else.
Free Site Review
We visit your property, confirm what's permitted under local codes, and tell you exactly what you can build. No guesswork.
Design & Permits
We coordinate architecture, structural engineering, and navigate city permitting. You stay informed, we do the work.
We Build It
Ground prep, framing, MEP, finishes — our licensed crews deliver your ADU on time and on budget. Keys in hand.
Fixed-price contracts.
No surprises.
Everything Included
- Architectural plans & drawings
- Structural engineering
- City permit fees
- Full construction & framing
- MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing)
- Interior finishes & fixtures
You're Protected By
- Fixed-price written contract
- CSLB Licensed & Bonded contractor
- Workers' compensation insurance
- General liability coverage
- Weekly project updates
- Zero-complaint license record since 2014
Typical 1-Bedroom ADU — Budget Breakdown
6 red flags when
hiring an ADU contractor.
No CSLB License Number
Any licensed contractor in California has a verifiable CSLB number. If they can't provide it, they cannot legally pull permits.
Quote With No Permit Line Item
Permits cost $8,000–$15,000 on a typical ADU. A quote that doesn't include them is hiding costs you'll pay later.
No Engineering on the Bid
Structural engineering is required for all ADUs. If it's not on the quote, you're either paying for it separately or it's being skipped.
Unusually Low Total Price
A $90,000 quote for a studio ADU means someone is skipping permits, unlicensed labor, or won't finish the job.
No Written Fixed-Price Contract
A verbal quote or a time-and-materials contract is a blank check. Demand a fixed-price, itemized written contract before signing.
No Workers' Comp Insurance
If a worker is injured on your property without coverage, you're liable. Always verify workers' comp before work begins.
ADU Construction FAQ
How much does an ADU cost in Southern California?
ADU costs in Southern California range from $140,000 for a garage conversion to $390,000+ for a premium 2-bedroom detached unit. Our studio ADUs start at $180,000 and 1-bedroom ADUs from $245,000. All prices include permits, construction, and a complete interior build-out — no hidden costs.
How long does it take to build an ADU?
The full timeline is typically 8–14 months: 1–2 months for design and plans, 3–6 months for city permitting, and 4–6 months for construction. Garage conversions are often faster. We manage every phase so you don't have to.
Do I need permits to build an ADU?
Yes — all ADUs require city permits. DWD Builders handles the complete permitting process, including architectural drawings, structural engineering, and all required inspections. We are experienced with LADBS, LA County, and city permitting offices across Southern California.
How much rent can I charge for my ADU?
Studio ADUs rent for $2,200–$3,500/mo. 1-bedroom ADUs command $3,000–$4,500/mo. 2-bedroom ADUs can rent for $4,000–$6,500/mo depending on the neighborhood and finishes. Most ADUs pay for themselves in 8–12 years through rental income.
Can I build an ADU on my property?
Most single-family lots in California can accommodate at least one ADU. SB 9 and state ADU laws have significantly expanded what's permitted. DWD Builders offers a free site assessment to confirm what type and size of ADU is permitted on your specific parcel — call (213) 413-1100.
What's the difference between a detached ADU and a garage conversion?
A detached ADU is a brand-new structure built on your lot, completely separate from the main house. A garage conversion repurposes your existing garage structure, which is typically faster and less expensive since the foundation and walls already exist.
How do I verify an ADU contractor's license in California?
Search cslb.ca.gov using the contractor's name or license number. A valid license shows as "Active" with a bond, workers' comp insurance, and zero complaints. DWD Builders (License #B-991385) has maintained an active, bonded, insured license with zero complaints since 2014. Always verify before signing any ADU contract — unlicensed contractors cannot legally pull permits.
What does an ADU actually cost — and why do quotes vary so much?
ADU costs range from $140,000 (garage conversion) to $390,000+ (2-bedroom detached). Large quote variations usually mean unlicensed contractors are omitting permits, engineering, or utility connection costs. DWD's pricing is all-in: architecture, engineering, permits, and full construction. What we quote is what you pay.
How does DWD Builders' ADU process compare to other contractors?
DWD Builders provides single-point accountability for the entire ADU project — design coordination, engineering, permitting, and construction under one CSLB license (#B-991385). We've completed 100+ ADUs across Southern California with a 100% permit approval rate and handle every phase in-house with weekly updates and transparent budgeting.
Pricing Disclaimer
All prices, ranges, and estimates shown on this page are general references based on current Los Angeles market conditions and are provided for planning purposes only. Every project is unique. Actual costs vary significantly based on site conditions, soil and terrain, architectural complexity, finish selections, permitting fees, and subcontractor availability at time of construction. No figure on this page constitutes a bid, quote, proposal, or binding commitment by DWD Builders Inc. A formal written proposal is provided only after a full site assessment and scope review. For an accurate project-specific number, call (213) 413-1100 or request a free consultation.
Your property can
generate income. Let's start.
Free site review — we visit your property, confirm what you can build, and give you a real number. No obligation.
DWD Builders Inc. · CSLB Lic. #B-991385 · 16255 Ventura Blvd Suite 605, Encino, CA 91436