How to Choose the Right ADU Type


The best ADU for you depends on lot layout, setbacks, utilities, privacy goals, and budget/timeline. Here’s how we evaluate it together.

 

  • Lot layout & setbacks (yard depth, side yard)

  • Existing garage condition & location

  • Utilities capacity and tie-in path

  • Privacy and separate entry needs

  • Rental goals vs. family use

  • Accessibility (single-level living, aging-in-place)

  • Budget and finish level

  • Timeline (fastest path to move-in)

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Detached ADU

What it is: A stand-alone backyard home with its own entry—maximum privacy and flexibility.
Best for:

2705 Highest rental appeal and long-term value

2705 Multi-gen living without shared walls

2705 Lots with enough rear/side yard depth

Highlights: Private yard/entry, excellent sound separation, strong resale signal.

Build notes: Requires setbacks/utility planning; we handle design, permits, and inspections.

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Attached ADU

What it is: An addition that shares a wall with your main home—efficient use of structure and utilities.
Best for:

2705 Keeping the footprint near the house

2705 Simplifying utility tie-ins

2705 Boosting overall home square footage

Highlights: Great resale integration, efficient build path, cohesive exterior design.

Build notes: Fire/sound separation details matter; we plan and inspect for code compliance.

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Garage Conversion ADU

What it is: Transform an existing garage into a full living unit—often the fastest, most cost-controlled route.
Best for:

2705 Quickest path to livable space

2705 Budget-sensitive projects

2705 Garages with viable structure/location

Highlights: Uses existing footprint, minimal exterior disruption, rent-ready layouts.

Build notes: Structural upgrades, waterproofing, insulation, and egress are key, we handle it.

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JADU (Junior ADU)

What it is: A compact unit (carved from the main house) with its own entrance—budget-friendly way to add living space.
Best for:

2705 Lower-cost projects and family use

2705 Carving space from existing floorplan

2705 Lots with limited yard depth

Highlights: Quick approvals in many areas, low disruption, smart storage solutions.

Build notes: Kitchenette format and shared facilities can vary by city; we verify.

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Multi-Story ADU

What it is: Two-level ADU to maximize square footage on smaller lots.
Best for:

2705 Limited yard area with strong space needs

2705 Panoramic views or upstairs living

2705 Long-term family use + rental flexibility

Highlights: More space with smaller footprint, premium layouts, great for view lots.

Build notes: Height/setback rules vary by city; structural and stairs/elevator planning required, we handle it.

ADU Types: Quick Comparison

Feature Detached Attached Garage
Conversion
JADU Multi-Story
Privacy High Medium Medium Low–Medium High
Speed to Build Medium Medium Fastest Fast Longest
Yard Impact Medium Low–Medium Low Low Low–Medium
Rental Strength Highest High Medium–High Medium High
Complexity Medium–High Medium Low–Medium Low High

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Trust Comes First

Why Homeowners Choose Go ADU

  • Be Transparent – real numbers from day one

  • Guarantee Your Price – no allowance games, no surprise change orders

  • Milestone-Based Payments, we finish work before we get paid

  • We Don’t Flake – clean worksites, on-time delivery, proactive updates

And because quality should last, every ADU we build includes efficient materials and solar-ready planning where it makes sense.

Still Gathering Info?


Grab our free guide to avoid surprise costs before you sign anything.

Ready to See What Fits Your Property?

We’ll show you which ADU type works best for your lot, and exactly what it will take to build it. From design to permits to keys, we’ll keep it simple and on schedule.

Serving homeowners across Los Angeles County: Burbank, Van Nuys, Culver City, Reseda, Chatsworth, Alhambra, and nearby communities.

Frequently Asked ADU Construction Questions?

Which ADU type is fastest to build?

Garage conversions and JADUs are usually the quickest because they use existing space. Detached and attached ADUs require more site work and inspections, and multi-story designs take the longest. We’ll confirm timelines after a site visit.

How do I know what size ADU I can build?

It depends on your lot, setbacks, and local rules. We verify all requirements during a feasibility check and show you what’s realistic before you invest in design.

Can I convert my detached garage into an ADU?

Often, yes. We assess structure, setbacks, utilities, and access to confirm viability. If the garage isn’t a fit, we’ll outline detached or attached alternatives.

What’s the difference between a JADU and an ADU?

A JADU is a smaller unit carved out of the main house; an ADU is a separate, full dwelling (detached, attached, or converted). JADUs are great for budget, while full ADUs usually offer more privacy and rental strength.

Do ADUs need separate utilities?

Some cities allow shared connections; others require separate meters or upgrades. We coordinate with the city and your utility providers and include the plan in your scope and price.

Are two-story ADUs allowed?

In many areas, yes, subject to height, setback, and design rules. We confirm these during feasibility and design accordingly.

Will I lose parking if I convert my garage?

Rules vary by city. We’ll review current requirements and show compliant options before we proceed.

Which ADU type is best for rental income?

Detached ADUs typically command the highest rents due to privacy and separate entry. Attached and garage conversion ADUs also rent well when designed thoughtfully.

How will an ADU affect my property value?

A well-designed ADU generally increases value by adding livable space and rental potential. We’ll help you balance design, finishes, and budget for long-term ROI.

What’s the first step to choose an ADU type?

Book a Free Discovery Call. We’ll discuss your goals, walk the property, confirm what’s possible, and give you real numbers before you decide.