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Prefab ADU in San Diego

Abodu makes and installs prefab homes for play, passive income and possibility in as little as 6 months.

About San Diego

Add long-term value and flexibility to your property with an Abodu prefab ADU in San Diego. Also known as granny flats, tiny houses, or casitas, prefabricated accessory dwelling units provide extra living space without the hassle and mess of a new construction project on-site.

Whether you need a guest house for friends or family members, a home office away from distractions, or even an exclusive studio for your creative pursuits, Abodu has you covered with a range of custom-built prefab ADUs. Take your pick from two-bedroom backyard homes to charming studio options.

What are the benefits of having an ADU?

Versatile and spacious, a prefab ADU in San Diego can benefit both the homeowner and the community. Due to San Diego’s in-demand housing market, you can rent your unit for additional income. Prefab ADUs come move-in ready, so you can rent out your ADU and start earning rental income immediately.

Plus, accessory dwelling units ease housing demands without further encroaching upon limited land resources. They take advantage of unused areas on residential lots efficiently and sustainably through cost-effective construction methods.

ADUs can also serve as independent living spaces for aging family members who seek closeness while maintaining privacy. This way, your loved ones can make the most of their golden years in a safe and comfortable modular home.

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San Diego ADU requirements

Discover how to get a permit, comply with utility regulations, and secure financing for your prefab ADU in San Diego.

Cost

How much does an ADU unit cost in San Diego?

Construction costs for an ADU start at $300/square foot and reach upwards of $600/sq.ft. These estimates are courtesy of Lily Robinson, the current president of the San Diego division of the American Society of Interior Designers.

Building Permits

How do I get an ADU permit in San Diego?

To expedite the permitting process, you can choose from pre-approved ADU plans ranging from studios to three-bedroom accessory dwelling units. Many ADU builders like Abodu offer pre-approved ADU builds with customization options.

In contrast, the usual process of applying for an ADU building permit involves many steps, including researching zoning regulations, drawing up detailed plans, and waiting for the local community development authority to grant approval. Once your ADU project is complete, there’s a final inspection to ensure the structure complies with building codes.

Requirements

What are the top ADU requirements in San Diego?

The city encourages ADU home builders to consult the fire department about compliance with mandated fire setbacks and sprinkler requirements. For parking requirements, an ADU must have a dedicated space which can be located inside setbacks or on an existing driveway. In addition, ADUs must have standard utility connections to water, electricity, and sewer services.

Financing

How do I finance an ADU in San Diego?

There are several ways to finance your ADU in San Diego including cash-out refinancing, leveraging a home equity line of credit (HELOC), or a reverse mortgage. Local assistance programs are also available, such as the San Diego Housing Commission Accessory Dwelling Unit Finance Program for low-income homeowners which funds ADU projects through construction loans.

FAQs: Prefab ADUs in San Diego

Most property owners with a main home in a residential zone can construct an ADU that complies with state law and local regulations. In San Diego County, the maximum square footage for detached ADUs on a single-family residence is 1,200 sq. ft., and a junior ADU (JADU) is limited to 500 sq. ft.

The bonus program allows San Diego homeowners to build an extra market-rate ADU for each additional ADU that carries a 15-year deed restriction for two types of households: those on a low-to-very-low income and single-family homes with moderate income.

Under state law, property owners can exceed the permitted number of ADUs on a specific parcel by meeting certain conditions. Typically, California homeowners can build only a single detached ADU in addition to one JADU on their main home.

However, property owners can be approved to exceed the standard ADU and JADU allowance by constructing income-restricted units. It’s worth noting there’s no limit on the number of ADU builds for primary residences located in Transit Priority Areas.

Yes, you can get a building permit if you submit the proper paperwork to the city’s office of planning and development services. To construct an ADU in San Diego, you must submit your ADU plans, including the floor and site plans, which have to comply with local building codes and zoning regulations, and pay the permit fees.

Learn more about Abodu Prefab ADUs

Ideally suited for Southern California’s laid-back lifestyle, Abodu ADUs make it easy to optimize the living space on your property without compromising on comfort or functionality. Crafted with high-quality materials and fitted with energy-efficient appliances, our prefab homes are unmatched in terms of quality and sustainability. Experience a seamless building process as the Abodu team takes care of ADU permits, utility connections, and installation for you. With a wealth of customizable features, you can tailor your prefab ADU in San Diego to fit your unique lifestyle.

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All-in-One Service

Featuring an impressive selection of pre-approved plans, Abodu streamlines the process of building and installing premium built-to-order ADUs.

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Unparalleled Design

Each floor plan showcases timeless designs using sustainable, high-quality materials—all with upfront pricing.

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Hassle-Free

Committed to delivering a straightforward, hassle-free experience for California homeowners, our efficient approach to prefab ADUs lets you enjoy your newly added living space as soon as seven months after signing on the dotted line.

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A Great Investment

Take advantage of an exceptional return on investment with an Abodu ADU.

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Book a call or tour today.