ADU CONSTRUCTION San Diego
ADU construction that enhances your lifestyle and property.
Shiro Builders Group designs and builds accessory dwelling units across San Diego County—detached backyard cottages, attached studio units, junior ADUs, and garage conversions. We manage design, permits, and construction under one contract so you know exactly what you're getting, what it costs, and when it's done.
ADU construction that balances your needs and lifestyle goals.
An accessory dwelling unit is one of the smartest investments a San Diego homeowner can make. Whether you're building to generate rental income, house an aging parent or adult child, create a dedicated home office, or simply add long-term value to your property, the right ADU pays for itself. But only if it's designed and built correctly from the start.
At Shiro Builders Group, we handle every part of the ADU construction process in-house. That means site assessment, architectural design, structural engineering, permit filing across San Diego County jurisdictions, utility connections, and construction—all coordinated by one team under one contract. Every city has its own ADU ordinance and permitting process—we know them all and factor local timelines into your project plan from day one.
Ready to transform your San Diego home?
Call us or fill out a quick form. We'll schedule your free consultation at a time that works for you.
Request Free Consultation (858) 630-6818Ready to Start? Financing Makes It Easier.
Your home improvement project shouldn't have to wait. Shiro Builders Group offers flexible financing options so you can begin your kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, ADU build, or room addition today — and pay on a schedule that works for you.
We accept multiple payment methods for maximum convenience for homeowners across all of San Diego County.
Popular ADU construction projects for San Diego homes.
San Diego's housing market and year-round climate make it one of the strongest ADU markets in California. State law has opened up more properties to ADU development than ever before, and homeowners across the county are taking advantage. Here are the ADU types we build most often—and what makes each one worth doing right.
Visualize your dream ADU with 3D rendering.
See your remodel before construction begins. Shiro Builders Group provides realistic 3D rendering services that help homeowners visualize layouts, materials, finishes, lighting, and architectural details before making final decisions.
Complementary services, delivered under one contract.
Garage Conversions
Not ready for a full ADU build? A garage conversion is one of the most cost-effective ways to add livable square footage to your San Diego property. We handle structural changes, insulation, plumbing, electrical, and permits—transforming an underused garage into a functional living space, home office, rental unit, or guest suite under one contract.
Room Additions
Expand your home's footprint with a permitted room addition. From primary suite additions and home office expansions to second-story builds, we design and construct additions that integrate seamlessly with your existing structure. Bundling a room addition with your ADU project keeps both scopes on one schedule and one contract.
Roofing
ADU construction often reveals that the main home's roof needs attention—and it's always more efficient to address it while crews are already on-site. Shiro Builders Group handles roof repair and installation alongside your ADU project, so you're not coordinating separate contractors or dealing with two rounds of disruption.
Don't wait — start your remodel today
We offer flexible financing options so your kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or ADU build can begin now. Serving all of San Diego County with multiple payment methods.
"I treat each home the way I'd want my own treated—built with discipline, built with intent, and built right the first time. That's a promise, and my name is on it."
From blank canvas to final walkthrough.
01 Initial Consultation
We start by understanding your goals, your timeline, and your budget. No pressure, no pitch—just an honest conversation about what's possible and how we'd approach your project.
02 Planning & Design Development
Our in-house design team develops detailed plans, 3D renderings, and material specifications. You review and approve everything before a single permit is filed.
03 Construction & Project Execution
Our crews handle all trades under one contract—no subcontractor hand-offs, no communication gaps. You have a dedicated project manager on your job from day one to final inspection.
04 Final Walkthrough
We walk the completed project with you, address any punch-list items, and don't consider the job done until you're satisfied with every detail.
05 Final Walkthrough & Handover
We don't hand over keys until you're fully satisfied. Every item on your punch list is resolved before we close the project and issue your written warranty.
Flexible payment options — no project too large
Once you receive your detailed quote, you can choose how to pay. We accept multiple methods and offer financing plans so your remodel can start on your timeline.
ADU Construction: Common Questions
How much does it cost to build an ADU in San Diego?
ADU construction costs in San Diego typically range from $150,000–$250,000 for a detached unit, $80,000–$150,000 for a garage conversion ADU, and $50,000–$120,000 for a junior ADU. Final pricing depends on size, site conditions, materials, utility connections, and permitting requirements specific to your city. We provide detailed, itemized estimates before construction begins so everything is transparent from day one.
How long does it take to build an ADU in San Diego?
Most ADU projects take 9–14 months from start to finish. This includes roughly 1–2 months for design, 3–6 months for permitting depending on the jurisdiction, and 4–6 months for construction. Garage conversions and JADUs are usually faster due to simpler approval processes. We map out the full timeline based on your specific city and property before any work begins.
Do I need permits to build an ADU in San Diego?
Yes. All ADU construction requires permits for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, including the City of San Diego, Chula Vista, Carlsbad, El Cajon, Escondido, and other parts of the county. We handle the entire permitting process in-house, including plan submissions and city coordination, so you don't have to manage it yourself.
What is the difference between an ADU and a JADU?
A standard ADU is a fully independent living unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, living space, and entrance, and can be detached or attached to the main home. A JADU (Junior ADU) is smaller, up to 500 sq. ft., and is created within the existing home footprint, often by converting a bedroom or garage. JADUs have lower costs and simpler permitting but may include occupancy requirements depending on local rules.
Will building an ADU increase my property taxes in San Diego?
Yes, but only partially. Under California's Proposition 13, only the newly constructed ADU is reassessed—not your existing home. That means your current property tax basis remains unchanged, and only the value of the ADU is added to your assessment. In most cases, the increase is modest compared to the rental income or long-term property value the ADU provides.
Ready to build your ADU?
Whether you're planning a detached backyard cottage, a garage conversion, or a junior ADU, Shiro Builders Group handles design, permits, and construction under one roof across all of San Diego County. Let's find out what's buildable on your property.
