ADU Builder Santa Clara
Custom, High-Quality Accessory Dwelling Units
Are you looking to build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Santa Clara, CA?
Keep Your Family Close with a Custom ADU
Whether you want to create a comfortable space for aging parents, independent living for adult children, or a guest house for extended family, ADU Builders Group is your trusted ADU builder in Santa Clara, California.
With over 20 years of experience, we specialize in designing and constructing high-quality, custom-built ADUs that strengthen family bonds, enhance multigenerational living, and improve your lifestyle while ensuring compliance with local building regulations.
Build with Peace of Mind
We are the only ADU company in Santa Clara that offers a three (3) years project warranty on our services with complementary annual project inspection. All of this on top of the ten (10) years warranty on structural components.
✔ 3 Years Project Warranty
✔ Complimentary Annual Inspection
✔ 10 Years Structural Warranty
Why Choose Us?
1. Peace of Mind with Industry-Leading Warranties
✅ 3 Years Project Warranty – We stand by our craftsmanship, ensuring any issues within the first three years are addressed promptly and professionally.
✅ Free Annual Inspection – Our commitment to quality extends beyond project completion, we provide a free annual inspection, for the first three years after project completion, to ensure your ADU remains in excellent condition.
✅ 10 Years Structural Warranty – Our ADUs are built to last, and we back them with a decade-long structural warranty, giving you confidence in the longevity of your investment.
2. Expert Guidance & Hassle-Free Process
✅ Permitting & Compliance Experts – Navigating Santa Clara's ADU regulations can be complex, but our experienced team ensures a smooth approval process, handling all paperwork and city requirements to prevent costly delays.
✅ 20+ Years of Construction Expertise – With decades of expertise in the construction industry and a dedicated focus on ADUs for over five years, we bring the knowledge, efficiency, and craftsmanship necessary to deliver high-quality results every time.
✅ Fast & Efficient Construction – Our streamlined process and skilled project management ensure your ADU is completed on time without unnecessary disruptions to your daily life.
3. Superior Craftsmanship & Custom Designs
✅ Aging-in-Place & Accessibility Features – Our ADUs are designed with the future in mind, incorporating accessibility features such as wider doorways, step-free entrances, and senior-friendly layouts for long-term convenience.
✅ Tailored Solutions for Every Home – Every family’s needs are unique, which is why we create custom ADU designs that maximize space efficiency, match your home’s aesthetics, and fit your lifestyle.
✅ High-Quality Materials & Precision Engineering – We use only top-tier materials sourced from our trusted, high-quality suppliers, ensuring that your ADU is durable, safe, and built to last for generations.
4. A Lifestyle Solution for Your Family's Needs
✅ Keep Loved Ones Close – Give elderly parents or adult children a private yet nearby living space, ensuring family members stay connected while maintaining their independence.
✅ Multigenerational Living Made Easy – Whether it's providing a comfortable home for aging parents or giving young adults a head start, our ADUs foster a supportive and practical living arrangement.
✅ Enhance Your Home’s Functionality – More than just extra space, an ADU can serve as a dedicated home office, personal gym, creative studio, or even a guest house for visiting relatives and friends.
About Us
Partners and Affiliations
ADU Builders Group Inc.
ADU Builders Group is a local, family-owned company dedicated to providing innovative solutions to California’s housing crisis, with passion for helping multigenerational families. Having high regards to family-oriented values, our work reflects a deep commitment to creating practical, high-quality custom ADUs that bring loved ones closer while respecting privacy and independence. With heart, craftsmanship, and a focus on community, we build homes that inspire and unite.
✔ Proudly Local
✔ Family-Owned
✔ Licensed and Insured
A Partner & Sister-Company of
Imagine Unique Remodels
Our Services and Expertise
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What's The Best Type of ADU for You?
Our Process
Consult with our ADU Experts
1
To start, discuss your needs, goals, and vision for your ADU with our experts. Start by having a phone consultation with us at (408) 413-3373. We'll set your schedule for the in-person meeting during the call. You'll receive expert recommendations and estimate for your ADU during the consultation phase at no cost.
2
Design with our Architect
Need to customize your ADU based on your needs and requirements? Design your own ADU and turn your ideas into an architectural plan with our Architect.
4
Construct & Pass Inspections
Our Project Managers will be in constant communication with you during construction and will ensure that your projects pass all inspections.
3
Obtain Permits Effortlessly
Our Liaison Officer will take care of the permits for you and work with the city to ensure that all paperworks are in place quickly and efficiently.
5
Enjoy and Maintain your ADU
Live the lifestyle you want and be worry-free. We'll continue to provide support and care to your project with our warranties and annual project inspection.
Local ADU Regulations in Santa Clara
Below is an overview of Santa Clara’s ADU regulations. If you need more details about how these rules apply to your property, reach out to us to connect with an ADU expert.
Where ADUs Are Allowed
ADUs are generally permitted on properties designated for residential use, though exceptions may apply. Your property must have an existing or planned single-family home or a multi-family building, such as a duplex, triplex, or apartment complex. Contact us to determine if your property qualifies for an ADU.
Minimum Lot Size
There are no minimum lot size restrictions—properties of any size may be eligible for an ADU.
Number of ADUs Allowed
Most single-family homes can have one or two ADUs, while multi-family properties may qualify for additional ADUs depending on the number of existing units and the type of ADU constructed. Get in touch with our team to find out how many ADUs your property can support.
Parking Requirements
Conversion and junior ADUs generally do not require additional parking. However, attached and detached ADUs usually need at least one parking space unless an exemption applies. Reach out to us for expert advice on Santa Clara’s ADU parking requirements.
Featured Project
ADU Builder Santa Clara FAQs
How long does it take to build a backyard unit or guest cottage in Santa Clara?
The typical project takes around 8 to 12 months from start to finish. This timeline includes 1–2 months for design, 2–4 months for permitting, and 4–6 months for construction. Factors like lot size, complexity, or needed utility upgrades may influence the schedule.
What’s the average cost to build a compact second unit in Santa Clara?
Construction costs typically range from $450 to $475 per square foot. A 750 sq. ft. in-law suite or studio cottage may cost around $340,000+, while larger or custom-built spaces can exceed $500,000. Be sure to include permit fees, landscaping, and potential upgrades to utilities in your total budget.
Can I connect the new unit to existing water, sewer, and electricity?
Yes, smaller secondary homes are usually tied into the primary residence’s utility systems. For those planning to rent the space or monitor usage separately, dedicated meters may be beneficial. Homes built before the 1990s may also need electrical or plumbing updates to meet modern standards.
Are there sustainability rebates or green building incentives?
Yes. Santa Clara residents can take advantage of BayREN energy efficiency programs, along with solar rebates, EV charger incentives, and appliance upgrade discounts. All new residential construction must meet California Title 24 energy codes, and units under 750 sq. ft. are generally exempt from local impact fees.
Why are people building granny flats or in-law units in Santa Clara?
These secondary dwellings are great for hosting family members, long-term guests, or renters. They also create opportunities for passive income, home-based businesses, or private workspaces—especially in a city where space and affordability are key concerns.
Is there strong interest in compact homes here?
Absolutely. With the rising cost of housing and limited inventory, many Santa Clara homeowners are choosing to build garage conversions, detached garden units, or studio apartments to better utilize their property and accommodate evolving needs.
What styles and features are popular for small dwellings?
Homeowners often choose modern or California-style layouts, focusing on open floor plans, energy-efficient systems, large windows, and private entrances. Outdoor living elements like patios or rooftop decks are also common in Santa Clara’s mild climate.
Where can I find planning and permit guidance?
The City of Santa Clara’s Planning Division offers detailed resources including zoning maps, development guidelines, and permit requirements online. You can also request a pre-application meeting to ensure your design complies with local codes.
How will this type of unit affect my neighborhood?
Santa Clara enforces regulations for setbacks, height limits, and design compatibility to ensure that new secondary units blend into the neighborhood and maintain the area’s residential charm. These homes allow for thoughtful, small-scale growth without major disruption.
Do I need to provide additional parking?
In many cases, no extra parking is required, especially if the unit is within ½ mile of public transit or if it replaces a garage. If none of those conditions apply, you may need to add one off-street space, depending on your lot and layout.
Service Areas
Want to build your own ADU but don't know how to start?
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By requesting a callback using our form.