What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a small, self-contained living space built on the same property as an existing home. These units go by many names, including carriage houses, mother-in-law suites, granny flats, casitas, backyard cottages, garage apartments, and basement apartments. Each ADU includes its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, though it is not considered a separate property that can be sold independently.
In the Denver area, ADUs have grown in popularity as the region has become more densely populated and available space has become limited. There is also a growing need for affordable housing options, making ADUs a practical and relatively low-impact solution for expanding residential capacity.
How Homeowners Use ADUs
ADUs offer homeowners a range of options depending on their goals. Some common uses include:
- Renting the unit as a short-term rental through platforms like Airbnb
- Leasing to a long-term tenant for consistent monthly income
- Moving into the ADU personally and renting out the main house for a higher rental return
- Providing housing for family members, such as aging parents or adult children
Beyond generating income, adding an ADU can also increase the overall value of a property. For many homeowners, it represents a practical way to make better use of existing land without the complexity of purchasing a separate property.
ALH Contracting and ADU Building Services
ALH Contracting specializes in building ADUs in the Denver area. As an experienced ADU contractor, they work with homeowners through the entire process — from initial planning to completed construction. Whether a homeowner is considering a detached ADU, a garage conversion, or another type of accessory dwelling unit, ALH Contracting can help assess what makes sense for a given property and set of goals.
The process typically begins with a free consultation, during which ALH Contracting walks the homeowner through what building an ADU involves, what to expect at each stage, and whether an ADU is a suitable fit for their situation. This upfront conversation is designed to give homeowners a clear picture before any commitments are made.
For those in the Denver area exploring ADU options, ALH Contracting offers the experience and local knowledge to help guide the project from concept through completion.
