Accessory Dwelling Units with Sunwood Home Builders & Remodelers
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is an independent living space located on the same property as a primary home. These units typically include their own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and a separate entrance. An ADU can be either attached to or detached from the main residence, depending on local zoning regulations and property specifics.
The number of ADU permits issued in Connecticut has grown significantly, with an 88% increase between 2019 and 2022. This reflects a broader trend of homeowners exploring ADU construction to address changing household needs. Sunwood Home Builders & Remodelers, based in Connecticut and building since 1985, offers ADU construction services across the state, including Durham, Meriden, Wallingford, and surrounding areas.
Before any construction begins, Sunwood assesses the property and reviews compliance with local zoning requirements. Connecticut Public Act 21-29 has led many towns to revise their zoning codes, allowing for greater flexibility in ADU builder projects — but regulations still vary by municipality.
Who Might Consider Building an ADU?
ADUs can serve a range of practical purposes. Homeowners typically consider building one for the following reasons:
- Providing a private living space for aging parents or adult children
- Generating rental income to help offset mortgage costs
- Adding usable square footage to their property
- Creating a dedicated home office or guest suite
- Planning ahead for aging-in-place with accessible design features
The type of ADU that can be built depends on local zoning rules, so it's important to understand what is permitted in a specific town or city before moving forward with any plans.
Types of ADU Construction Offered by Sunwood
Sunwood Home Builders & Remodelers offers several types of ADU solutions tailored to different property layouts and homeowner needs:
- Mother-in-law suite / in-law suite builder: These units are designed for aging parents who want to remain close to family while maintaining their independence. Sunwood has completed projects of this type, including attaching an ADU to an existing garage structure.
- Detached ADU builder: Standalone units that function as a full residence, offering complete privacy from the main home. These are often considered by homeowners looking to generate rental income or house a family member.
- Attached ADUs: Extensions connected to the primary home, typically with a separate entrance. Common examples include basement apartments or additions with their own kitchen, bathroom, and entry point.
- Garage conversion contractor: Sunwood can convert an existing garage into a functional living space. Whether a detached garage qualifies as an ADU depends on local zoning and building codes.
- Interior conversion ADUs: Underutilized sections of an existing home can be converted into a self-contained living space with a separate entrance, without the need for a full addition.
- Second-story additions: For properties with limited horizontal space, adding an independent living unit above an existing structure is a viable option.
Each project is approached individually, with Sunwood tailoring the design and construction to the homeowner's specific needs, property layout, and local requirements. Their process covers everything from the initial consultation through permitting, zoning compliance, construction, and final inspection.
With over 600 homes built across Connecticut, Sunwood Home Builders & Remodelers brings practical experience to ADU projects of varying complexity. Timelines typically range from 6 to 12 months from planning to completion, depending on design scope and permitting requirements.
For homeowners considering a granny flat, backyard cottage, casita, or any other form of accessory dwelling unit in Connecticut, Sunwood offers a structured process that includes design planning, permit management, and construction oversight.