A Los Angeles garage conversion can reuse an existing shell, but that does not remove residential code, utility, permit or site costs. Use this cost-anatomy guide before trusting a price-per-square-foot quote.
Some California cities offer free or pre-approved ADU plans, but the plan set is only one piece of the project. This guide shows what homeowners still need to budget for before calling a plan truly free.
Understand when a California ADU in PG&E territory may need a separate meter, panel or service upgrade, what trenching and utility work can add cost, and how to build a realistic PG&E connection budget.
Compare three California ADU contractor bids on the same scope, uncover exclusions and allowance differences, and download a free fillable checklist.
Follow the ADU construction process from issued permit to move-in, with inspection checkpoints, a homeowner planner and a handover checklist.