ADU Construction Services by Build Method Construction
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an attached or detached fully equipped residential living space located on an existing residential property. With Los Angeles facing an ongoing housing shortage, the demand for ADU construction has grown considerably. Homeowners are increasingly looking to add living space, increase property value, generate rental income, and contribute to the availability of affordable housing in their communities.
In the past, zoning laws, high fees, and complex regulations made it difficult for many homeowners to move forward with an ADU project. However, the State of California and the 2020 Los Angeles ADU Ordinance have made the process more accessible and cost-effective for owners of both single-family and multi-family properties.
Build Method Construction is a fully licensed, full-service ADU contractor based in Los Angeles County, with over 25 years of experience helping homeowners plan, design, and build accessory dwelling units. They handle the entire process — from architectural planning and design through to construction, permits, and final inspections.
Types of ADUs Build Method Construction Can Build
ADUs are known by many names, including granny flats, in-law suites, garage conversions, backyard cottages, and Casitas. Build Method Construction works with homeowners to identify the right ADU type based on their property, goals, and budget. The main ADU types available in Los Angeles County include:
- Interior ADU – Built within the existing primary residence, such as a basement or attic conversion. Also referred to as a home conversion.
- Detached ADU – A standalone unit built independently from the primary residence, typically located in the backyard. This is also known as a detached ADU or backyard cottage.
- Attached ADU – Connected to the existing home by at least one wall, functioning as an addition to the primary structure.
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) – A unit no larger than 500 square feet that must be part of the existing structure. JADUs may share a bathroom with the primary residence and are only required to meet efficiency kitchen standards.
It's worth noting the distinction between an ADU and a standard room addition. An ADU functions as a self-contained living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and living space. A room addition, by contrast, expands the square footage of the existing home — such as adding a second story or enlarging a room — without creating a separate dwelling unit.
Some of the practical benefits of building an ADU include:
- No need to purchase additional land
- Potential for rental income as a secondary unit
- Increased home equity for property owners
- Additional living space for family members
The Build Method Construction Process
Build Method Construction begins each project with a free consultation to assess the property, discuss the homeowner's goals, and determine any restrictions that may affect the ADU's size or design. During this phase, they take into account the existing structure, the client's budget, and compliance with Los Angeles building, zoning, and residential codes.
For new ground-up construction, detailed blueprints with exact measurements are created. The design and permitting phase involves preparing and submitting the correct documentation to the city — a step that requires careful attention to detail. Once permits are approved, construction begins.
Throughout the process, Build Method Construction provides 3D renderings to ensure the design aligns with the client's vision. They aim to keep homeowners informed with regular communication while managing the day-to-day construction work. The team also assists with finishes and final inspections to bring the project to completion.
Whether a homeowner is looking for a garage conversion contractor, a JADU contractor, or a builder for a fully detached accessory dwelling unit, Build Method Construction offers the experience and resources to manage ADU projects across Los Angeles County and Southern California.
