DiStefano Brothers Construction builds ADUs in Rhode Island, including internal, attached, and detached units. They navigate RI regulations: by-right approval, size limits, occupancy rules, and long-term rental requirements for compliant accessory dwelling units.

DiStefano Brothers Construction, Wakefield, RI

About DiStefano Brothers Construction

ADU Construction Services by DiStefano Brothers Construction

DiStefano Brothers Construction works with homeowners in Rhode Island on the planning and construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). An ADU is a secondary, independent living unit located on the same lot as a primary single-family or multi-family home. To qualify as an ADU, the unit must contain complete independent living facilities, including its own separate cooking and sanitary facilities.

As an experienced ADU contractor, DiStefano Brothers Construction can help homeowners understand their options and navigate the construction process from start to finish.

Types of ADUs DiStefano Brothers Construction Can Build

There are three main forms of ADUs that can be constructed:

Internal ADUs – A conversion within the existing home, such as a basement conversion or interior space repurposed into an independent unit.
Attached ADUs – An addition built onto the primary home that functions as a separate living space.
Detached ADUs – A fully separate structure on the property, such as a backyard cottage or granny flat, independent from the main home.

Whether a homeowner is looking for an in-law suite builder, a detached ADU builder, or help with a garage conversion, DiStefano Brothers Construction brings relevant construction experience to each project type.

Rhode Island ADU Regulations to Know

Rhode Island state law has introduced several important rules that affect ADU projects. Homeowners considering an ADU should be aware of the following:

By-Right Approval: State legislation now mandates that all Rhode Island municipalities allow ADUs "by right" under certain conditions. This means homeowners can move forward without needing a special-use permit or discretionary zoning board approval.
Size Restrictions: Maximum size limits apply based on the number of bedrooms. A one-bedroom ADU can generally be up to 900 square feet, or 60% of the primary dwelling — whichever is less. A two-bedroom ADU can be up to 1,200 square feet, or 60% of the primary dwelling — whichever is less.
Occupancy Rules: The updated state law removes previous owner-occupancy or familial relationship restrictions. An ADU can be occupied by family members, caregivers, or any long-term tenant.
Short-Term Rental Restrictions: Rhode Island law specifically prohibits ADUs from being used for tourist or transient rentals — defined as stays of less than 30 days — or from being listed on hosting platforms. ADUs are intended for long-term housing use only.

DiStefano Brothers Construction operates with an understanding of these local and state-level regulations, which is an important part of delivering ADU projects that meet compliance requirements. Homeowners looking for a reliable accessory dwelling unit builder in Rhode Island can look to DiStefano Brothers Construction for construction expertise on projects of this type.

Services

DiStefano Brothers Construction performs the following services

Construction

DiStefano Brothers Construction Reviews

Patricia Moore

2026-02-26

"DBC has never disappointed us and, man, they have done many projects for us - from small to large over the past 19 years. Last year they remodeled our kitchen and I enjoyed working with the team to make our dream come true. Stunning outcome - exactly what we wanted. Their designer Kristen and the talented carpenters, Super Dave and Dave M., collaborated beautifully. Their communication is excellent with timely updates. No stress. On time, on budget. Flawless clean up at the end of each day. They now have an electrician on staff and recently he solved a problem for us. Mark C. is talented and a pleasure to work with. I'm so happy that much of our house-related needs can be solved by DiStefano Brothers. Finally, the garage floor project 4-5 years ago still looks flawless and spills are wiped clean with water only - no need for harsh chemicals. I LOVE my garage floor! Thank you, DiStefano Bros. Concrete Coating company. Rock on, DBC!"

Brenda Rubadou

2025-10-02

"DiStefano Brothers Construction did a complete gut and remodel of my 1950's home. Communication was excellent from start to finish. I walked in with a good idea of what I wanted but the architects and designers took my plans up a notch with improvements I had not considered. The DBC crew are not just talented and incredibly competent, they're also really good people. I enjoyed getting to know them. Each of the carpenters did something special for me above and beyond the plans, and I really appreciated those personal touches. I LOVE my house!!! DBC will not be the lowest estimate you receive, but with them you absolutely get what you pay for. I recommend them without hesitation."

Jane Carlson-Pickering

2025-08-08

"My husband and I have been trying to have a deck built for over a year. Each time we thought we had someone lined up, they were either a no-show or didnt feel they could provide us with all aspects of our project. However, after meeting with DiStefano Bros. Builders, we couldnt be happier with our new deck. Not only did they listen intently to what needs we had, they helped us make decisions with regard to decking materials, colors, sizes, railing choices, finishing touches, etc. They arrived promptly each day and continuously communicated with us throughout the project. The crew worked efficiently and left our yard clean and tidy throughout the job. We want to give a special shout-out to Jon and Ronnie for their superb craftsmanship creating the deck we had been wanting for years. We highly recommend DiStefano Bros. and would most certainly hire them again for any future needs."

Mike Nelson

2025-02-03

"We had looked at a few contractors who do remodeling projects in southern RI and chose Tom W. DiStefano Bros. to reconfigure a decrepit deck and replace it with a new deck and screen room, attached to the house at the kitchendining area. Fitting what we wanted onto the space to work with we had was a challenge from the start, but we were expertly guided by Tom R. and his engineer, Tim and agreed on a solid design. It took some time to work through the permitting process, but when the work began, we found the DBC team to be true professionals. The work was started when promised, the site was kept neat, and a few necessary design changes were handled gracefully and amicably. The building work was done expertly and with care. Communications were frequent, with nice photos of the site and captions provided via text at least 2 or 3 times a week. Hats off to Toby, Tim, Cole, Ronnie, Dave anyone on the site I might not have met! The project turned out to be a little more expensive than we had originally budgeted for - but the beautiful result will last and is something we'll enjoy with family friends for years to come, God willing!"

Carol Dupuis

2024-08-28

"We had a fantastic experience working with DiStefano Brothers on the renovation of the ground level of our home. Led by Tom Ragan, our team of Steve, Toby, Tim and Cole, transformed our basement level into an amazing outdoor living space. Their attention to detail and their genuine desire to make the space functional and beautiful surpassed our expectations. They were professional, thoughtful and pleasant to have around during the duration of the project. Kaitlin, the design expert, was a tremendous help with the finer details. We also had a great experience working with Justin from DiStefano Brothers Concrete Coating. The floors really completed the space. We would not hesitate to give DiStefano Brothers our highest recommendation."

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Opening hours

Monday 9:00AM - 4:30PM

Tuesday 9:00AM - 4:30PM

Wednesday 9:00AM - 4:30PM

Thursday 9:00AM - 4:30PM

Friday 9:00AM - 4:30PM

Saturday -

Sunday -

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