Common questions. Straight answers.

A basic conversion to living space or bedroom runs $40,000-$70,000. A junior ADU runs $50,000-$90,000. A full ADU with kitchen, bath, and permits runs $80,000-$150,000. The on-site estimate confirms the written price.

Yes. A crew visits your property, reviews the garage size, setbacks, and existing utilities, and hands you a written quote with no obligation and no trip fee for your zip.

Yes. California has reduced ADU permit fees and streamlined the plan check process. Some local utilities offer rebates for energy-efficient HVAC and insulation in new ADUs. Your crew confirms applicable programs at the on-site estimate.

An ADU (accessory dwelling unit) is a fully independent living space with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entry. A JADU (junior ADU) is limited to 500 square feet, must be within an existing structure like an attached garage, and can share a bathroom with the main home. JADUs have lower permit costs but more restrictions on rental use.

Yes. Detached garages are one of the most common ADU conversion types in San Diego County. California law allows detached garage conversions on most single-family lots regardless of lot size or zoning, subject to setback and height rules. Your crew confirms eligibility for your specific property at the on-site visit.

Under California ADU law, jurisdictions cannot require replacement parking when a garage is converted to an ADU within half a mile of public transit or when the property is in certain zoning categories. In many San Diego County locations, you can convert the garage without replacing the parking space. Your crew and permit plans confirm the rule for your address.

Yes. Any garage conversion that changes the use of the space requires a building permit. ADU and JADU conversions also require architectural drawings, Title 24 energy compliance documentation, and plan check approval. California law has streamlined the ADU permit process, but permits are still required. Your crew handles all permitting when the scope calls for it.

Plan check for an ADU conversion in the City of San Diego currently runs 4-8 weeks. Unincorporated San Diego County and other cities like Chula Vista, Escondido, and El Cajon have their own timelines, typically 6-12 weeks. California law requires jurisdictions to approve or deny ADU permit applications within 60 days. Your crew confirms the timeline for your jurisdiction at the on-site estimate.

Most full ADU conversions involve a general contractor for framing and finish, an electrician for panel upgrades and new circuits, an HVAC crew for the mini-split or forced air system, and a plumber for ADU kitchen and bath connections. A structural engineer is required if the garage door opening requires a new header. Your crew manages all trades under one scope.

No. Garage Convert SD is a referral service, insured but not licensed, cslb.ca.gov. We match you with insured local crews and help you get a clear written quote. The crew you hire does the work.

The crews we match carry general liability and workers comp, and we confirm coverage before work starts. You can verify any California contractor license at cslb.ca.gov before you sign.

Getting matched and getting the on-site estimate and written quote costs you nothing. You only pay the crew you choose for the actual garage conversion work.