What is a JADU and how is it different from an ADU?

A JADU (Junior ADU) is a unit up to 500 sqft built inside the footprint of an existing single-family house — usually a converted bedroom or garage. It requires owner-occupancy and is faster/cheaper to permit than a full ADU.

Can I have both a JADU and an ADU on my LA lot?

Yes — state law allows one JADU plus one ADU on most single-family lots in LA. The combination is often the best path for multi-generational living plus rental income.

How much does a JADU cost in Los Angeles?

Most LA JADUs land between $95K and $180K all-in. Existing plumbing proximity and whether the entrance already exists are the biggest swing factors.

Do I need owner-occupancy for a JADU?

Yes — JADUs require the homeowner to occupy either the main house or the JADU. The restriction is recorded against the deed.

Los Angeles JADU Builder

A Junior ADU carves up to 500 sqft out of an existing single-family house, typically a converted bedroom or attached garage bay. It is the lightest-touch path to a permitted rental unit in LA — and the owner can keep occupying the main house. We handle the plan set, the LADBS permit, and the build.

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Scope of work.

Feasibility check — interior wall layout, plumbing access, exterior entry
Kitchenette, efficiency bath, and bedroom buildout
Separate exterior entrance, fire-rated demising wall if required
Owner-occupancy deed restriction and LADBS sign-off
Sub-panel, plumbing tie-in, mini-split HVAC

What changes about this in Los Angeles.

JADUs require an owner-occupancy deed restriction in LA — the homeowner must live in either the main house or the JADU.
Maximum 500 sqft of interior conversion under California JADU law (Gov Code §65852.22).
An efficiency kitchen is allowed (no full range required) but the unit still needs a separate exterior entrance.
Most JADUs can be permitted over-the-counter at LADBS when the plan set is clean.

Los Angeles cost band — 2026

$95K – $180K all-in

$300 – $450 / sqft installed (2026)

Existing plumbing wall proximity and whether the entrance already exists drive the band.

Los Angeles timeline

Plan on 6–10 weeks for design + LADBS permit, then 8–12 weeks on-site.

In short.

What is a JADU and how is it different from an ADU?: A JADU (Junior ADU) is a unit up to 500 sqft built inside the footprint of an existing single-family house — usually a converted bedroom or garage. It requires owner-occupancy and is faster/cheaper to permit than a full ADU.
Can I have both a JADU and an ADU on my LA lot?: Yes — state law allows one JADU plus one ADU on most single-family lots in LA. The combination is often the best path for multi-generational living plus rental income.
How much does a JADU cost in Los Angeles?: Most LA JADUs land between $95K and $180K all-in. Existing plumbing proximity and whether the entrance already exists are the biggest swing factors.
Do I need owner-occupancy for a JADU?: Yes — JADUs require the homeowner to occupy either the main house or the JADU. The restriction is recorded against the deed.

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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