ADU Construction in Los Angeles with Romano Builders
Accessory Dwelling Units — commonly referred to as ADUs — have become one of the most sought-after home improvement projects across Los Angeles. With housing costs continuing to rise and inventory remaining tight, many homeowners are exploring ways to add usable space, generate rental income, or accommodate family members on their existing property.
Romano Builders is a Los Angeles-based construction company that specializes in home remodeling and ADU construction. Their services cover the full scope of an ADU project, from initial design through to completed construction.
An ADU is a secondary residential unit built on the same lot as a primary home. It functions as an independent living space and typically includes a private entrance, kitchen or kitchenette, bathroom, and sleeping area. These units are also commonly known as granny flats, in-law suites, backyard cottages, or guest houses.
Types of ADUs Romano Builders Can Help With
There are several ADU formats available to Los Angeles homeowners, and the right choice depends on lot size, budget, and intended use.
- Detached ADU: A separate structure built in the backyard, typically ranging from 400 to 1,200 square feet. This option offers the most privacy and is often favored for rental purposes.
- Attached ADU: An addition connected to the main home. Generally less expensive to build and faster to complete than a detached unit.
- Garage Conversion (ADU): An existing garage is converted into a livable space. This is one of the more cost-effective options since it uses an existing structure and typically moves through the approval process more quickly.
- Junior ADU (JADU): A smaller unit, capped at 500 square feet, usually created within the existing footprint of the home. It may share utilities with the main residence and often includes a kitchenette rather than a full kitchen.
California law has made it considerably easier for homeowners to build ADUs, and most single-family residential properties in Los Angeles are eligible. Typical regulations include a maximum size of 1,200 square feet for detached units, 4-foot side and rear setbacks, and height limits that generally range from 16 to 25 feet depending on zoning. Parking requirements have also been relaxed in many cases, particularly near public transit.
Costs, Timeline, and Rental Income Potential
Construction costs for ADUs in Los Angeles generally fall in the range of $300 to $600 per square foot, depending on factors such as design complexity, soil conditions, utility connections, and material choices. Garage conversions tend to sit at the lower end of the cost spectrum, while detached ADUs with full foundations and new utility connections typically cost more.
Most ADU projects follow a process that includes design and planning, permit submission and city review, and then construction. The full timeline from start to completion is typically 6 to 10 months.
In terms of rental income, Los Angeles ADUs can generate meaningful returns. Estimated monthly rental rates vary by unit size:
- Studio ADU: $1,500 – $2,200/month
- 1-Bedroom ADU: $2,000 – $3,000/month
- 2-Bedroom ADU: $3,000 – $4,000+/month
Beyond rental income, adding an ADU can increase overall property value. Homes with ADUs in desirable Los Angeles neighborhoods have been known to sell for notably more than comparable properties without them.
In addition to ADU construction, Romano Builders offers a broader range of residential construction services including bathroom remodeling, room additions, deck and patio construction, and general design and remodeling work. Their team handles projects across the Los Angeles area.
For homeowners considering an ADU project, working with a contractor who understands local permitting, zoning requirements, and construction logistics can help avoid common and costly mistakes. Romano Builders brings that experience to both ADU builds and broader home improvement projects.
