ADU Builders in Clovis

You want to create safe and accessible housing options for loved ones, expand your personal living space, or take advantage of rental income opportunities. Cloud Nine Construction is the home of the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) builders who make your goals happen. We’re deeply familiar with Clovis’s zoning and permitting regulations and work closely with you to create and implement a structure that fulfills all legal requirements and complements your existing property.

Reach our team at (559) 289-8991 for more information on our ADU construction processes.

Call Now

What Is an ADU?

An accessory dwelling unit, also known as a granny flat, in-law suite, or secondary unit, is a self-contained living space on the same property as a single-family home. ADUs are designed to provide additional housing options within existing residential areas, offering flexibility and affordability for homeowners and renters. These units can be attached to the primary residence, like a converted garage or basement, or built as a separate structure, like a backyard cottage or apartment above a detached garage.

ADUs typically feature amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and sleeping quarters, allowing for independent living while still being connected to the main property. They serve various purposes, including housing extended family members, generating rental income, or providing housing for caretakers or guests. ADUs have gained popularity in recent years due to changes in zoning regulations and increased demand for affordable housing options.

Many homeowners are exploring the potential of adding ADUs to their properties as a practical and cost-effective way to maximize space and address housing needs.

What Should You Expect During the ADU Construction Process?

During the ADU construction process, homeowners can expect a series of steps to transform their vision into a fully functional accessory dwelling unit. The process begins with thorough planning and design discussions with the ADU builder, where layout preferences, materials, and budget considerations are established.

Once the design is finalized and permits are obtained, construction commences. This typically involves site preparation, like excavation and foundation work, framing, roofing, and exterior finishing. At the same time, interior work begins, including electrical wiring, plumbing installation, insulation, drywalling, and flooring. Regular communication between the homeowner and builder throughout the construction phase is crucial to address any questions or concerns and ensure alignment with the project timeline and budget.

As construction nears completion, final touches like painting, cabinetry installation, and landscaping are added. Once the structure is complete, a thorough inspection is conducted to verify compliance with building codes and regulations before the homeowner can occupy the space.

Cloud Nine Construction’s ADU Building Services

We’re well-versed in all the zoning, safety, and building codes that apply to the construction of accessory dwelling units:

Our ADU building services include:

  • Detached ADUs
  • Attached ADUs
  • Garage ADUs
  • Junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs)

What’s the Difference Between Attached and Detached ADUs?

Attached and detached ADUs both offer additional living space, but they differ in placement, design, and potential uses. Understanding the difference helps homeowners choose the right type of ADU for their property and goals.

What Is an Attached ADU?

An attached ADU is built as an extension of the main home. It shares at least one wall with the primary residence but typically has a separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living area. This type of ADU might be located at the side, rear, or even above the garage of the existing structure.

The benefits of attached ADUs include:

  • Lower construction costs compared to detached ADUs
  • Easier access to utilities already in the main home
  • More seamless integration with the home’s existing design

What Is a Detached ADU?

A detached ADU is a stand-alone structure built separately from the main house, often located in the backyard. It functions as an independent living space with its own foundation, utilities, and private entrance.

The benefits of detached ADUs include:

  • Greater privacy for both the main home and the ADU occupant
  • More flexibility in design and layout
  • Strong appeal for long-term rentals or short-term guests

Which ADU Design Is Better—Attached or Detached?

That depends on your property layout, local zoning laws, budget, and how you plan to use the space. Our experienced ADU contractors will be happy to help evaluate your lot, recommend the best option, and assist with all the necessary permits and construction requirements.

Are There Size Restrictions for Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit?

The maximum size of your ADU depends on your location, the type of ADU you’re building, and your property’s zoning regulations. Nationwide, there’s no universal maximum size for ADUs, but many states and municipalities follow general guidelines that allow for flexibility while preserving neighborhood character.

In California, state law sets a clear baseline to make ADUs more accessible for homeowners. You’re allowed to build an ADU of up to 800 square feet without being subject to local lot coverage, floor area ratio, or open space requirements, provided it meets basic setback and height standards. Depending on the local jurisdiction, detached ADUs can often be as large as 1,200 square feet, and attached ADUs may be limited to 50% of the primary residence’s floor area.

Can You Use an Accessory Dwelling Unit as a Rental Property?

Many homeowners build accessory dwelling units specifically to use them as rental properties. An ADU can serve as a long-term rental, short-term vacation rental, or housing for family members, depending on your local zoning laws and rental regulations.

Before moving forward, it’s essential to check with your local municipality. Many cities and counties have adopted ADU-friendly policies to help address housing shortages, but rules about renting an ADU can vary. Some jurisdictions allow long-term rentals but restrict or prohibit short-term rentals like Airbnb. Others may require you to live on the property as a primary resident to rent the ADU legally.

Additional considerations include:

  • Permits and licensing: You may need a rental permit or business license, especially for short-term rentals.
  • Occupancy limits: Local building codes may limit how many people can live in an ADU.
  • Utilities and separate meters: While not always required, separate utility meters can help simplify billing and tenant management.
  • Parking requirements: Some areas require off-street parking for ADU tenants.

Contact a Custom ADU Builder Today

Cloud Nine Construction’s builders support property owners in Clovis by providing custom and affordable ADUs. We understand the importance of getting all the planning, design, development, and construction details right the first time. We’re an experienced secondary dwelling construction contractor with all the licensing, insurance coverage, trained personnel, and equipment to help you create an attached or detached accessory dwelling unit on your property.

Are you ready to get started? Reach us at (559) 289-8991 to reserve a risk-free initial consultation with our construction specialists.

Looking for ADU builders in Clovis? Contact us at (559) 289-8991.