How much does an ADU cost in Los Angeles in 2026?

Most detached LA ADUs land between $300K and $500K all-in. Garage conversions typically run $160K–$260K. We hand over a one-page feasibility note with a real number before any contract.

Do you handle LADBS permits?

Yes — full plan set, structural calcs, Title 24 energy compliance, and the LADBS back-and-forth so the homeowner only signs at the milestones.

Can I build an ADU in a hillside zone?

Usually yes, but Hillside Ordinance grading and access rules add design time. We've built in Silver Lake, Mt. Washington, Hollywood Hills, and the Palisades — geotech and shoring are part of the workflow.

How long does an LA ADU take from sketch to keys?

Plan on 7–11 months total: 3–5 months for design and LADBS permit, then 4–6 months on-site. Pre-approved ADU plans shorten the permit window when the lot fits.

Will an ADU pay for itself in LA?

In most LA rental sub-markets a well-built 750–900 sqft ADU rents for $2,800–$4,200/mo. We model the cash-on-cash return in the feasibility note.

Los Angeles ADU Builder

We design, permit, and build accessory dwelling units across Greater Los Angeles — detached backyard ADUs, attached additions, garage conversions, and JADUs. One team, one number to call, from the first feasibility walk through the final LADBS inspection.

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Scope of work.

Site walk, feasibility note, and zoning / LAR1 / RD overlay check
Full architectural plan set, structural, MEP, Title 24 energy
LADBS or local-city permit submittal and back-and-forth
Foundation, framing, MEP rough, finishes, landscape tie-in
Final inspection, certificate of occupancy, and warranty

What changes about this in Los Angeles.

LADBS pre-approved ADU plans can compress the permit window to 4–6 weeks when the lot fits a standard footprint.
Hillside Ordinance (HCR), HPOZ, and Coastal Zone overlays add review time — we flag them in the feasibility note before contracting.
LADWP service-line upgrades (200A panel, water lateral) are the most common cost surprise; we price them in upfront.
Most LA jurisdictions allow detached ADUs up to 1,200 sqft as-of-right under state ADU law (Gov Code §65852.2).

Los Angeles cost band — 2026

$300K – $500K all-in

$450 – $650 / sqft installed (2026)

Lot access, slab condition, panel upgrade, and finish level move the number most. Pre-approved plans trim 5–10%.

Los Angeles timeline

Plan on 3–5 months for design + LADBS permit, then 4–6 months on-site for an 800–1,000 sqft detached ADU.

In short.

How much does an ADU cost in Los Angeles in 2026?: Most detached LA ADUs land between $300K and $500K all-in. Garage conversions typically run $160K–$260K. We hand over a one-page feasibility note with a real number before any contract.
Do you handle LADBS permits?: Yes — full plan set, structural calcs, Title 24 energy compliance, and the LADBS back-and-forth so the homeowner only signs at the milestones.
Can I build an ADU in a hillside zone?: Usually yes, but Hillside Ordinance grading and access rules add design time. We've built in Silver Lake, Mt. Washington, Hollywood Hills, and the Palisades — geotech and shoring are part of the workflow.
How long does an LA ADU take from sketch to keys?: Plan on 7–11 months total: 3–5 months for design and LADBS permit, then 4–6 months on-site. Pre-approved ADU plans shorten the permit window when the lot fits.
Will an ADU pay for itself in LA?: In most LA rental sub-markets a well-built 750–900 sqft ADU rents for $2,800–$4,200/mo. We model the cash-on-cash return in the feasibility note.

Los Angeles areas we cover.

More of what the Los Angeles studio builds.

Got a Los Angeles project in mind?

Send us the address. We’ll pull zoning, setbacks, and feasibility before you spend money on drawings — and the inquiry routes straight to the Los Angeles desk.

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