ADU Contractor in Redlands, CA: Accessory Dwelling Units Built Right
If you are considering an Accessory Dwelling Unit, California has made it easier than ever to build one. The Inland Empire is one of the most active ADU markets in the state, and recent changes to state law have cut setback requirements, eliminated most parking rules, and streamlined permit timelines.
As a licensed ADU contractor in Redlands, CA,
Straight Edge Builders handles every part of your project: site assessment, plans, permits, construction, and final inspection. One team, no handoffs.
What Is an ADU and Why Build One?
An ADU is a secondary housing unit on the same lot as your main home, with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Unlike a room addition, it is a separate dwelling that can be rented independently under California law.
Rental income is the most common reason homeowners build ADUs in the Inland Empire. Multi-generational living is equally popular. ADUs give aging parents or adult children a private space without requiring anyone to move across town. A permitted ADU also adds measurable value to your property. California has cut setback minimums to four feet, eliminated most parking requirements, and streamlined permit timelines, making this a practical time to move forward.
ADU Types We Build in the Inland Empire
As an accessory dwelling unit builder serving the full Inland Empire, our ADU construction services cover every type. We will walk you through which option fits your lot at your free consultation.
- Detached ADU (Backyard Cottage): A standalone structure fully separate from your main home. Most privacy, typically the highest rental value, but requires a new foundation, full framing, and dedicated utility connections.
- Attached ADU: Shares at least one wall with your main house, so it can tie into existing utilities and structure. Lower cost than a detached build.
- Garage Conversion ADU: One of the most requested ADU construction services we provide. The structure already exists, which keeps costs lower and timelines shorter. Covered in detail below.
- Junior ADU (JADU): A unit of 500 square feet or less built within your existing home's walls. The lowest-cost option, requiring only minor plumbing, electrical, and an efficiency kitchen.
- ADU Over Garage: Built on top of an existing or new garage. A practical option for smaller lots where building outward is not possible.
- Multi-Room ADU: Layouts with separate bedrooms to maximize rental income potential, designed within your lot's zoning constraints.
Garage Conversion Contractor: Turn Your Garage Into Living Space
Garage conversions are the most common starting point for Inland Empire homeowners exploring ADUs. The structure already exists, which keeps costs lower and timelines shorter than a new build. As your garage conversion contractor, we handle the full scope: permits, insulation and framing to meet residential habitability standards, utility connections for the kitchen and bathroom, egress windows where bedrooms require them, and interior finishes to the level you choose.
The three biggest cost factors for a garage conversion are the condition of the existing slab, the distance from the garage to your home's main utility connections, and your finish selections. We assess all three during your free site visit so the estimate you receive reflects your actual project, not a generic range. A well-executed conversion in Redlands or Highland typically takes 3 to 5 months from permit submission to move-in, depending on site complexity and building department review times.
For a detailed breakdown of the process, read our guide to ADU contractor Redlands garage conversions.
ADU Permit Process in California: What to Expect
Permitting is where a lot of ADU projects stall. As an ADU permit contractor serving San Bernardino County, we manage this process on your behalf from day one so you are not tracking deadlines, responding to plan check comments, or scheduling inspections on your own.
Here is how the process works:
- Site assessment and feasibility. We visit your property to confirm lot size, setbacks, zoning, and utility access before any drawings are made.
- Architecture and engineering. We produce code-compliant plans with specialized designers and coordinate structural engineering where required.
- Plan submission. We submit to the local building department and handle plan check responses. California law requires agencies to act on most ADU applications within 60 days.
- Permit issuance. We pull all required trade permits: building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical.
- Construction and inspections. Our crews maintain a consistent schedule and coordinate all phase inspections.
- Final inspection and sign-off. We manage the final walk-through and any corrections. Your ADU is delivered fully permitted and ready to occupy or rent.
California ADU laws have changed significantly, limiting local governments from imposing parking requirements, minimum lot sizes, and other restrictions that used to slow projects down. We stay current on these rules so your project is designed to code from day one.
ADU Construction Costs and Timelines by Type
ADU costs in the Inland Empire vary by what you are building, your lot conditions, and your finish level. The table below gives you a framework for comparing options across the main ADU types. All ranges will be refined at your free consultation based on your specific property, not a generic estimate applied to everyone.
| ADU Type | Relative Cost | Typical Timeline | Primary Cost Drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior ADU (JADU) | Lowest | 2 to 4 months | Minor electrical, plumbing, interior finish only |
| Garage Conversion | Low to moderate | 3 to 5 months | Utility hookups, slab condition, insulation, finishes |
| Attached ADU | Moderate | 4 to 7 months | Shared wall work, utility access, interior buildout |
| Detached ADU (new build) | Highest | 6 to 10 months | New foundation, framing, full utility trenching, finishes |
| ADU Over Garage | Moderate to high | 5 to 8 months | Structural engineering, vertical framing, roofline integration |
The biggest cost variables are utility connections, slab condition for garage conversions, and finish selections. Utility trenching adds cost when the ADU site is far from main service connections. Rental-grade finishes keep budgets lower; premium selections command higher rents. Every estimate we provide is written and line-itemized before any work begins.
Not Sure Which ADU Type Fits Your Property? Let's Find Out.
Every lot and every family situation is different. Our team will walk through your options, explain what your zoning allows, and give you a realistic cost range. No pressure, no guesswork. Just honest answers from a licensed contractor who knows the Inland Empire's ADU rules.
Or call us: (909) 682-6053
ADU Construction in California: Permit Requirements & Regulations
ADU permitting has its own unique requirements. While state law has simplified the process, local jurisdictions still control specific fees and timelines. That's where our expertise makes a real difference.
- California ADU Laws: We ensure your project complies with all state mandates designed to encourage ADU development.
- Permitting Timeline: Our experience with local building departments helps us secure approvals faster than typical homeowner applications.
- Setback and Height Restrictions: We design within the 4-foot setback requirements while maximizing your usable space and following all zoning rules.
- Utility Requirements: We manage all required electrical meters, sub-meters, and plumbing/sewer connections.
- Structural Engineering: We coordinate all necessary engineering for new foundations, two-story ADUs, and garage conversions.
Financing Your ADU Project
Most homeowners use a home equity loan, HELOC, cash-out refinance, or construction loan to fund an ADU project. A HELOC lets you draw on equity you have already built and typically carries lower rates than personal loans. A cash-out refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a larger one and uses the difference for construction. Construction loans are a common route for larger detached builds where the project cost exceeds available home equity.
Specific terms and eligibility depend on your lender and your current financial situation. We are not lenders and do not make financing recommendations, but we will give you an exact project cost at your consultation so you know precisely what you are financing before you apply. Many homeowners find it useful to have that number in hand before approaching a bank or credit union.
Why Choose Straight Edge Builders for Your ADU
Here is what you get when you work with us as your ADU contractor in Redlands, CA:
- Licensed and insured: We hold California General Contractor License B #1075936 with full bonding and insurance. You can verify our license through the California Contractors State License Board.
- Full design-build approach: One team handles everything from site assessment through final inspection. You will not be coordinating between separate design firms, permit expediters, and build crews.
- Permit navigation included: We manage all permit submissions, plan check responses, and inspection scheduling. Our familiarity with local building departments in San Bernardino County keeps projects moving.
- Local Inland Empire knowledge: We know the zoning rules, setback requirements, and utility standards specific to Redlands, Highland, Yucaipa, and the surrounding cities. That knowledge prevents costly design decisions that would fail plan check.
- Transparent, line-item estimates: You will receive a detailed written estimate before any work begins. Every cost is spelled out with no surprises.
Mitch and Dustin lead every project hands-on from the first site visit through final inspection. Our ADU construction services cover Redlands, Highland, Yucaipa, Beaumont, and the full Inland Empire. To learn more, visit our Redlands remodeling services or Highland remodeling pages, or contact us directly to discuss your project and schedule a free site visit.
View ADU Projects & Garage Conversions
We've built detached ADUs and garage conversions that generate real rental income for local homeowners. View
our portfolio to see completed projects.
What Our Clients Say About Our ADU Construction Services
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"Straight Edge Builders did a great job navigating the complexities of converting our two-story garage to a new home for my parents. They stuck with us as we worked to overcome mistakes by the architects (don’t hire Powell & Associates) and permitting issues. They always had someone working so we never felt abandoned for another job. This was important because we needed it done as soon as possible. This project was unique for a variety of reasons. The property is a historic landmark which required them to work well with our consultant and other specialty contractors. They balanced preservation requirements with modern design and handicapped accessibility throughout. Overall, Mitch and Dustin exceeded expectations at every turn. They expertly customized the project to our unique needs. We would highly recommend them for any project that requires skill, adaptability, and a high level of care."
- Melissa B.
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“Great company to work with! They are extremely knowledgeable in their trade, And do absolutely amazing work! Would definitely recommend to one of my friends and family!”
- David T.
ADU Construction – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an attached and detached ADU?
An attached ADU shares a wall with your main home and ties into existing utilities, keeping costs lower. A detached ADU is a separate structure with its own foundation and utility connections. It costs more but offers maximum privacy for tenants or family members. Both are permitted under California ADU law, and our team will help you decide during your free site assessment.
How long does it take to build an ADU in California?
A garage conversion typically takes 3 to 5 months from permit submission to move-in. A new detached ADU generally runs 6 to 10 months, depending on site complexity and the building department's review timeline. California law requires agencies to act on most ADU applications within 60 days, and our team manages the full permitting process on your behalf.
Do I need permits for a garage conversion?
Yes. California requires permits for garage conversions even though the structure exists. The process covers structural changes, utility connections, and habitability compliance. Skipping permits creates liability and can complicate a future sale. Our services include handling all submissions from start to finish. For more details, read our guide to ADU contracting in Redlands and garage conversions in the Inland Empire.
How much does an ADU cost in the Inland Empire?
Costs vary by type. JADUs are lowest, followed by garage conversions, attached ADUs, and new detached builds. The biggest variables are utility connections, slab condition for conversions, and finish selections. We provide a line-item estimate at your free consultation so you know exactly what you are investing before any work begins.
Can I rent out my ADU?
Request Your ADU ConsultationYes. In most Inland Empire cities, long-term rental of a permitted ADU requires no additional permits. Short-term rentals may be subject to local ordinances, so confirm with your city before listing. Many of our clients have built ADUs specifically for rental income. To learn more about our work in the area, visit our Redlands remodeling services page.
Start Your ADU Project Today
Ready to transform your property with a quality ADU? Contact Straight Edge Builders for a free consultation and detailed project estimate.
Call Us: (909) 682-6053
Licensed & Insured: California Contractor License #1075936