Accessory dwelling units have become one of the smartest investments a Los Angeles homeowner can make. Whether you want to generate rental income, house an aging parent, create a private home office, or simply increase your property value, an ADU delivers flexible living space on the lot you already own.
California's streamlined ADU legislation has made it easier than ever to add a secondary unit to your property, but the process still requires expert navigation of local zoning codes, building requirements, and utility connections. ACE Design & Build has completed hundreds of ADU projects across Los Angeles County, and we handle every step - from feasibility assessment and architectural design to permitting, construction, and final inspection.
We build three types of ADUs: detached new-construction units, garage conversions, and junior ADUs carved from existing space within your primary residence. Our in-house design team creates plans that maximize square footage, complement your existing home's architecture, and meet all current California building codes including Title 24 energy requirements.
With rental rates in Los Angeles consistently among the highest in the nation, a well-designed ADU can generate $2,000 to $4,000 or more per month in rental income - often paying for itself within a few years. Beyond income, an ADU can increase your property value by 20 to 30 percent, making it one of the highest-ROI improvements available to homeowners today.
What's Included
Feasibility assessment and site evaluation
Custom architectural design and 3D renderings
Structural engineering
Full permit processing and plan check management
Foundation and concrete work
Framing, roofing, and exterior finishes
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC installation
Insulation and drywall
Kitchen and bathroom build-out
Flooring, paint, and trim
Utility connections and meter setup
Final inspections and certificate of occupancy
Why Choose ACE for ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units
Turnkey Permitting
Los Angeles ADU permitting can be complex and time-consuming. Our team manages the entire process - from initial planning review through final sign-off - so you never have to set foot in a city office.
Immediate Rental Income
A well-built ADU in Los Angeles can generate $2,000 to $4,000 or more per month in rental income. Many of our clients see their investment pay for itself within three to five years.
Increased Property Value
ADUs consistently increase property values by 20 to 30 percent. Whether you rent it out or keep it for family use, you are building real equity with a tangible asset.
Our ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units Process
Free site visit to evaluate your property, discuss your goals, and confirm ADU feasibility based on local zoning.
Architectural design, engineering, and preparation of permit-ready plans tailored to your lot and preferences.
We submit plans to the city, manage plan check revisions, and secure all required building permits.
Our crews handle all construction from foundation to finishes, with a dedicated project manager overseeing quality and timeline.
Final inspections, certificate of occupancy, and a walkthrough with you to ensure everything meets your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units
Most ADU projects range from $150,000 to $350,000 depending on size, type (detached, garage conversion, or junior ADU), and finish level. Garage conversions are typically the most cost-effective, while detached new-construction units are on the higher end.
Including design and permitting, most ADU projects take six to ten months from start to finish. The construction phase itself typically runs four to six months for a detached unit and two to four months for a garage conversion.
Yes. All ADUs in Los Angeles require building permits. California law requires cities to approve ADU applications within 60 days if the plans meet zoning and building code requirements. ACE handles the entire permitting process on your behalf.
Under current California law, most single-family residential lots are eligible for at least one ADU. Specific requirements vary by lot size, zoning, and setback regulations. We conduct a free feasibility assessment to determine what is possible on your property.
Yes, an ADU is considered new construction, so it will be reassessed by the county assessor. However, only the value of the new unit is added to your tax basis - your existing home's assessed value remains unchanged.
This depends on your local jurisdiction. The City of Los Angeles has specific regulations governing short-term rentals. We recommend checking current local ordinances, and we are happy to discuss your options during your consultation.
What Our Clients Say
“ACE built a 600 sq ft ADU in our backyard that is now generating $2,800 per month in rental income. They handled every permit, every inspection, and delivered a unit that looks like a luxury studio apartment.”
“The ADU process in LA is a nightmare of permits and regulations. ACE navigated all of it for us. From plans to keys, it took seven months. Our mother-in-law now has her own beautiful, private space on our property.”
“We built a two-bedroom ADU with a full kitchen for my aging parents. ACE designed it to be fully accessible - wider doorways, grab bars, walk-in shower. They thought of everything we did not.”
“ACE turned our detached garage into a stunning 450 sq ft guest house. New foundation, insulation, plumbing, electrical - the works. It blends perfectly with our main house and added serious value to our property.”
“We were quoted $280K by another contractor for our ADU. ACE came in at $195K for the same scope and delivered higher quality. The separate entrance and landscaping they designed gives it a completely independent feel.”