ADU Construction Services by Shermans Builders Inc.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have grown in popularity among homeowners looking to add functional living space, generate rental income, or accommodate family members. Shermans Builders Inc., based in San Diego, specializes in designing and building ADUs that are tailored to each property and the homeowner's specific goals.
With over 150 projects completed, Shermans Builders Inc. brings hands-on experience to every stage of the ADU building process — from initial consultation through to final inspection. They are a licensed ADU contractor managing all aspects of the project, including permits, design, and construction.
The ADU Building Process
Shermans Builders Inc. follows a structured process to take an ADU project from concept to completion:
- Consultation & Feasibility – The process begins with an assessment of the homeowner's goals, property, and budget. The team evaluates the lot based on San Diego zoning laws, property size, and utility access to determine what type of ADU is viable. Options such as detached ADUs, garage conversions, and attached units are discussed, along with a preliminary cost estimate.
- Design & Planning – Once the project direction is confirmed, a custom layout is developed. This includes selecting floor plans, materials, finishes, and energy-efficient features, all while meeting San Diego building requirements.
- Permits & Approvals – Shermans Builders Inc. manages the entire permitting process, including permit applications, city submissions, plan approvals, and code compliance. This is handled in-house to reduce delays and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Construction – With permits in place, construction begins. The team handles site preparation, foundation work, framing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and interior and exterior finishes.
- Final Inspection & Completion – After construction, a final walkthrough is conducted and all required inspections are coordinated to confirm the ADU meets San Diego building standards.
As an experienced ADU builder in San Diego, Shermans Builders Inc. works on a range of unit types, including detached ADU builds, garage conversion projects, attached ADUs, and Junior ADUs (JADUs). Each project is approached with attention to the specific conditions of the property and the applicable local regulations.
Practical Considerations for San Diego ADU Projects
For homeowners considering an ADU in San Diego, there are several practical factors to keep in mind:
- Timeline: Building an ADU typically takes between 4 and 9 months, depending on the size, design complexity, and permitting timeline. Detached ADUs generally take longer than garage conversions.
- Permits: All ADU construction in San Diego requires permits covering zoning, building, electrical, plumbing, and structural work. Shermans Builders Inc. handles this process on behalf of the homeowner.
- Size limits: Detached ADUs can often be built up to 800–1,200 square feet or more, while Junior ADUs (JADUs) are typically capped at 500 square feet. Exact limits depend on the property and zoning regulations.
- Cost ranges: Garage conversions typically range from $80,000 to $150,000. Attached ADUs range from $120,000 to $250,000. Detached ADUs can range from $150,000 to $400,000 or more.
- Rental use: ADUs in San Diego can be rented out, though homeowners should verify compliance with current local rental regulations.
An ADU can serve multiple purposes — as a granny flat or in-law suite for family members, a backyard cottage for guests, a rental unit, or a home office. Shermans Builders Inc. works with homeowners to identify the most suitable approach based on their property and intended use.
Transparent cost estimates are provided upfront, and the team maintains communication throughout the project to keep timelines and expectations on track.
