What UADU Builds and How They Work
UADU is an ADU contractor serving homeowners in California, offering a range of accessory dwelling unit solutions tailored to individual properties and local zoning requirements. Their services cover garage conversions, detached ADU builds, attached ADUs, and two-story units. Each project is approached as a custom build, shaped by the specific needs of the homeowner and the rules of the local jurisdiction.
As a full-service ADU builder, UADU handles the entire process from initial design through to final inspection. This includes architectural plans, city submittals, permitting, construction, and all required inspections. Homeowners do not need to hire a separate architect or designer — UADU provides complete design-build services, including floor plans, exterior styles, interior finishes, and 3D renderings.
For those considering a garage conversion, UADU manages the structural upgrades, utility connections, and code compliance involved in transforming an existing garage into a livable accessory dwelling unit. Garage conversions are noted as one of the more popular ADU types they work on, largely because they make use of existing structures and tend to involve less disruption to the main home.
ADU Types, Sizing, and Eligibility
UADU builds both one-story and two-story ADUs, depending on what a homeowner needs and what local zoning allows. Most California cities permit ADUs up to 1,200 square feet, though the actual allowable size depends on lot dimensions, setbacks, and zoning rules. UADU helps homeowners understand what is possible on their specific property.
They also work on Junior ADUs (JADUs) — smaller units typically under 500 square feet that often share systems with the main home. A JADU differs from a standard ADU in that it is more limited in size and scope, but can still serve as a functional secondary living space.
UADU offers a free feasibility check to evaluate whether a property qualifies for an ADU. This assessment looks at setbacks, lot size, access points, and zoning. According to UADU, most single-family homes in California are eligible. In most California cities, owner-occupancy is no longer a requirement, meaning homeowners can build an ADU even if they rent out their primary residence.
For properties with limited yard space, pools, or other existing structures, UADU notes they specialize in creative space planning to work within those constraints.
Timeline, Permits, and Financing
Most ADU projects handled by UADU take between 4 to 6 months from permit approval to completion of construction. Timelines can vary based on the size and complexity of the design, as well as the pace of city permitting in a given area.
UADU manages the full permitting process on behalf of the homeowner, including:
- Architectural and engineering drawings
- City plan submittals
- Scheduling and attending required inspections
- Ensuring the unit meets all applicable building codes
On the financial side, UADU can connect homeowners with ADU-friendly lenders and help explore financing options such as HELOCs and renovation loans. They also offer free, no-obligation estimates, which typically involve a site visit to assess the property.
From a value standpoint, ADUs generally increase livable square footage and can generate rental income, which may offset construction costs over time. UADU also helps ensure that completed units meet California's rental code requirements for those who intend to rent their ADU long-term.
Homeowners can also expect input into the final look of their unit — UADU allows clients to select their own materials, finishes, fixtures, and colors, with guidance provided throughout the procurement process.
