Maximizing Value in Minimal Space: Your Guide to ADU Garage Conversion Cost
At ADU Alliance, we believe that informed homeowners make the best clients. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide to help you understand the various factors that influence the cost of converting a garage into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). The cost of such a project can vary significantly, as it’s influenced by several factors, including the garage’s size, age, location, architecture, and structural integrity. Let’s dive in to dissect these cost components further.
Key Takeaways
- The cost of converting a garage into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) varies based on several factors such as size, age, location, architecture, and structural integrity.
- Main cost components include plans & design, engineering work, city permits, and construction.
- Design plans can be drafted by an architect, draftsman, or designer, with costs ranging from $2,500 to $40,000.
- Engineering work may not be needed for all garage conversions but can add costs ranging from $350 to $4,000 or more if structural changes are necessary.
- Permit costs are issued by the city and can range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more.
- Construction costs vary based on several factors and can range from $150 to $250 per square foot or more.
- For a 400-square-foot garage, costs could range from around $65,000 (best-case scenario) to an average of $100,000.
- The final cost could be higher or lower depending on whether the garage is already partially converted or has serious structural issues.
- To get an accurate cost estimate for your garage conversion, consult with a specialist company such as ADU Alliance that offers a range of services from planning and design to construction and project management.
Components of ADU Garage Conversion Cost
The conversion of a garage into an ADU involves various stages, each with its associated costs:
ADU Garage Conversion Plans & Design
This initial stage involves drafting the necessary plans and designs for your garage conversion. These can be handled by an architect, draftsman, or designer, with costs ranging from $2,500 to $40,000, depending on your location and specific requirements.
ADU Garage Conversion Engineering
Not all garage conversions require engineering work. However, if you plan on making structural changes or adding windows and doors, you’ll need to account for engineering costs. These can vary from $350 to $4,000 or more, based on the scope of the structural work required.
ADU Garage Conversion Permits
Permits are issued by your city, and the cost is determined accordingly. You can expect permit costs to range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more.
ADU Garage Conversion Construction
The cost of construction will depend on various factors, including the garage’s size, the materials used, and whether separate utilities for the ADU are required. The cost per square foot can range from $150 to $250 or more.
Additionally, you should also consider utility fees and project management and coordination fees as part of your budget.
A Closer Look at Costs
To provide an example, let’s consider a 400-square-foot garage. If you’re on the lower end of costs for all categories, you might be able to convert the garage into an ADU for around $65,000. However, this is a best-case scenario and doesn’t factor in new utilities for the ADU. The average ADU garage conversion cost usually ends up somewhere in the middle of the range on these four categories, closer to $100,000.
Please note that these numbers can significantly vary. For example, if your garage is already partially converted, the conversion cost could be much lower. Conversely, if your garage has serious structural issues, the cost could be higher.
Tailored ADU Garage Conversion Cost
The best way to get an accurate cost estimate for your garage conversion is to consult with a specialist. At ADU Alliance, we provide a comprehensive range of services, from planning, design, engineering, permitting, and construction, to project management and coordination. Our dedicated team ensures you get a customized solution that fits your needs and budget.
Conclusion
We encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation where we can assess your property and give you an accurate garage conversion cost estimate. Please remember that all numbers and estimates provided are approximations and can vary based on individual circumstances.
This article is intended to give an overview of the potential costs involved in an ADU garage conversion. The actual costs may be lower or higher, depending on the specifics of your project and local building costs. Always consult with an ADU specialist to obtain an accurate quote. We are just one call away at (657) 800-7443.
