ADU and Granny Flat Construction Services in Los Angeles
Snow Construction is a Los Angeles-based construction company that specializes in building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), commonly referred to as "granny flats." They work with homeowners across Los Angeles to plan, design, and construct additional living spaces on existing residential properties. Their services cover a range of construction needs, including residential and commercial construction, renovation, remodeling, ground-up builds, project management, and design.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit located on the same lot as a primary single-family home. These units are known by several names — granny flats, backyard cottages, in-law suites, casitas, or guest houses — and are designed to function as independent living spaces, complete with their own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance. They are commonly used to house elderly relatives, adult children, or as a source of rental income.
In early 2017, California enacted legislation to encourage homeowners to build ADUs, making it easier to obtain permits and approvals. Since then, ADU construction in Los Angeles has grown considerably, driven by the need for flexible and practical housing solutions.
Planning, Design, and the Construction Process
Snow Construction begins each ADU project with a planning, design, and layout phase. This initial stage helps homeowners determine whether building an ADU on their property is feasible. It also outlines the steps required by the City of Los Angeles and gives a clearer picture of what the design and construction process will involve.
As an experienced ADU contractor and granny flat builder in Los Angeles, Snow Construction aims to keep the process straightforward and transparent. They maintain consistent communication with clients from the start of the project through to the final finishing touches, keeping homeowners informed and in control throughout.
Their stated goal is to help clients define and transform their space within a realistic budget, completing projects on time and within the agreed budget.
Parking Considerations When Building an ADU
One practical aspect of ADU construction in Los Angeles involves parking requirements. Many properties already have two parking spaces in a garage or carport. When adding an ADU, an additional parking space may be required on the lot. This space can be either covered or uncovered depending on available area and homeowner preference.
However, there are situations where additional parking may not be required. As of July 2017, the following exemptions apply:
- The ADU is located within one-half mile of public transit.
- The ADU is located within an architecturally and historically significant district.
- The ADU is part of the existing primary residence or an existing accessory structure.
- On-street parking permits are required but not offered to ADU occupants.
- A car-share vehicle is located within one block of the ADU.
Parking requirements can change over time. Snow Construction can assist homeowners in checking current requirements with the Department of City Planning at the start of any ADU project.
For homeowners considering whether an ADU is the right option, Snow Construction works with clients to address common questions — such as the difference between a JADU (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit) and a standard ADU, maximum allowable square footage under California law, typical construction timelines, and overall project costs in the Los Angeles area.
Snow Construction serves homeowners looking to add a detached ADU, convert an existing garage, or build a backyard cottage or in-law suite on their property. Their broader construction background in both residential and commercial projects means they bring a range of building experience to each ADU engagement.
