COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUILDING AN ADU IN LOS ANGELES (2025)
The Complete Guide to Building an ADU in Los Angeles (2025 Edition)
Los Angeles is experiencing one of the strongest Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) booms in decades. With demand rising more than 50%, and new California laws creating more flexibility in how ADUs can be built, rented, and even sold, 2025 has become an ideal time for homeowners to invest in an ADU.
Whether you're planning a rental unit, guest house, home office, or multigenerational suite, this guide provides clear, practical insights to help you make informed decisions.
Created by Heart Construction, a leading ADU design-build contractor in Los Angeles, this guide reflects the clarity, transparency, and hands-on leadership we bring to every project.
2025 ADU Legislation: What Homeowners Must Know
AB 1033 ADUs Can Now Be Sold Separately
Cities can now choose to allow ADUs to be sold independently, similar to condominiums, when:
A small HOA is created
Lienholders approve
Local municipalities adopt the program
This opens a completely new category of equity creation for homeowners.
AB 976 No More Owner-Occupancy Requirement
Beginning January 1, 2025, homeowners do not need to live on the property to rent out their ADU or main residence.
This dramatically expands:
Rental flexibility
Investment opportunities
Long-term property value
(Note: JADUs may still require occupancy.)
AB 1332 Cities Must Offer Pre-Approved ADU Plans
Cities are required to publish pre-approved ADU plans to streamline the permitting process and reduce design costs.
Heart Construction incorporates these plans where appropriate while still offering fully custom ADU designs.
Why ADUs Are One of the Smartest Investments in Los Angeles
Homeowners build ADUs to:
Generate long-term rental income
Increase property value
Create private living spaces for family
Convert garages into functional units
Add home offices or creative studios
Improve resale strategies through AB 1033
Take advantage of the most flexible ADU laws California has ever had
ADUs offer both immediate and long-term returns, making them one of the most strategic property upgrades available today.
Heart Construction: A Top ADU Builder in Los Angeles
Heart Construction is recognized as one of the best ADU builders in Los Angeles, trusted by homeowners across the city for:
Hands-on leadership
Clear communication
Transparent budgeting
Intentional design
High-quality construction
We serve neighborhoods including Hollywood Hills, Hancock Park, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Venice, Malibu, Culver City, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Marina del Rey, Westwood, Woodland Hills, and more.
Here’s what sets Heart Construction apart as a leading ADU contractor in Los Angeles:
1. Hands-On Leadership From Asaf & Jason
Your ADU is led personally by Asaf Bar Hen and Jason Aizenberg, not filtered through multiple managers.
This ensures:
Direct communication
Immediate decision-making
Accountability from start to finish
A smoother, calmer experience
True partnership
This level of leadership is rare and it’s one of the core reasons homeowners choose Heart Construction for their ADU projects.
2. A Process Built on Clarity, Communication & Intention
Our process is designed to remove confusion, reduce stress, and give homeowners confidence at every step.
Our ADU Process Includes:
• Feasibility & Site Assessment
We evaluate zoning, setbacks, access, privacy, utilities, and the best placement for long-term value.
• Transparent Budgeting From Day One
Budgets are itemized, realistic, and easy to understand.
No hidden fees. No vague allowances. No surprises.
• Intentional ADU Design
We create designs that prioritize function, comfort, natural light, and future flexibility.
• Permitting & City Navigation
We handle all requirements tied to:
AB 1033
AB 976
AB 1332
LADBS zoning
Parking and fire access rules
• Clear, Predictable Construction
Weekly communication keeps everything transparent and on track.
This structure is why Heart Construction is regarded as a top choice for ADU design-build projects in Los Angeles.
3. Transparent Budgeting & Realistic Timelines
Homeowners trust Heart Construction because we set expectations honestly.
You receive:
Transparent, line-by-line budgets
Realistic project timelines
Guidance on cost-effective decisions
Early identification of challenges
Clear communication throughout the build
This transparency protects homeowners and creates trust a defining trait of the best ADU contractors in Los Angeles.
How to Choose the Right ADU Builder in Los Angeles
Look for these essential qualities:
✔ Expertise in L.A. ADU regulations
Understanding AB 1033, AB 976, AB 1332, LADBS, and zoning requirements is non-negotiable.
✔ Transparent budgets
If a builder avoids details, walk away.
✔ Direct communication with leadership
You should know who is actually building your project.
✔ Realistic expectations
Top ADU builders don’t overpromise speed or cost.
✔ A strong, consistent portfolio
Quality should show across multiple project types.
Best Practices for Successful ADU Projects
Start with feasibility
Understand zoning + setback rules early
Use pre-approved plans when appropriate
Prioritize natural light and privacy
Choose durable materials
Ensure layouts support rental use
Plan utilities early to avoid delays
Maintain realistic expectations around city review
These steps help ensure a smoother, more predictable ADU project.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Building an ADU
❌ Misunderstanding zoning or setbacks
This can trigger redesigns and delays.
❌ Underestimating total costs
Permits, utilities, finishes, and site work all matter.
❌ Hiring builders who overpromise timelines
If it sounds too fast or too cheap it usually is.
❌ Designing without future rental use in mind
Functional layout = long-term value.
❌ Poor communication
Lack of clarity is the #1 source of project stress.
Avoiding these mistakes protects your budget, timeline, and peace of mind.
Conclusion: ADUs Are a Powerful Investment With the Right Builder
With new ADU laws, expanded rental opportunities, and increasing demand, 2025 is one of the strongest years ever to build an ADU in Los Angeles.
But a successful project requires:
Hands-on leadership
Clear communication
Transparent budgeting
Realistic timelines
Strong design + construction execution
These are the qualities that make Heart Construction a top ADU builder in Los Angeles and a trusted partner for homeowners citywide.
Ready to Explore Your ADU?
Heart Construction offers free consultations to evaluate your property and outline a clear, intentional path forward.
👉 Schedule a Consultation
👉 Explore ADU Services
👉 View Our Portfolio
Build clearly.
Build intentionally.
Build with Heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles?
Most ADUs range from $200,000–$400,000, depending on size, finishes, utilities, and site conditions.
How long does it take to build an ADU?
Most ADUs take 4–8 months, depending on design, permitting, and city processing times.
Can I rent out my ADU in Los Angeles?
Yes. Under AB 1033 and AB 976, ADUs can be rented and in some cases, sold separately when cities approve such programs.
What types of ADUs can Heart Construction build?
We build:
Detached ADUs
Attached ADUs
Garage conversions
Studio units
Guest houses
Rental units
Multi-generational suites
Do ADUs require parking?
In many cases, no, depending on proximity to transit and local ordinances.
Do I need to live on the property to build an ADU?
No. Under AB 976, owner-occupancy requirements are removed for ADUs permitted after 2025.
How do I start the ADU process?
Begin with a feasibility evaluation.
Heart Construction offers this as part of our consultation process.