Santa Cruz ADU Cost Estimations

A Breakdown of ADU Costs

Soft Costs:

Planning and Building Department Fees: $10,000-20,000, depending on the size of the ADU and whether it is a conversion or a new construction.
Water, Sewer, and Fire Sprinkler Connections: $10,000-20,000, contingent on whether the existing services can be shared or if new services need to be tapped at the street. If you're in the Soquel Creek Water District, expect an additional $20,000-30,000 for a new water meter.
PG&E Electric Hookup/Panel Upgrade: $5,000-8,000, depending on whether you have a 200 amp panel at the main house, if a new service is required, and the distance the gas line needs to run from the shared meter (or opt for all-electric and add solar!).
Architectural Plans and Engineering: $15,000-35,000 for architectural plans, structural engineering, Title 24 energy modeling, and possibly a soils report. Garage conversions may require less in terms of engineering and soils reports, whereas stand-alone ADUs require more extensive structural engineering and may need a soils report.

Building Costs

Garage Conversions: $150,000-300,000, depending on the condition and size of the existing garage, proximity to utilities, and the extent of necessary upgrades.
Stand-Alone or Attached ADUs: $300,000-700,000, depending on size, site, accessibility, finishes, and building department requirements. Smaller ADUs typically cost around $650-700 per square foot, while larger ADUs over 800 square feet may see reduced costs due to economies of scale, especially with simpler designs and finishes.

Note on Cost: ADUs generally have a higher cost per square foot compared to larger homes due to their smaller size and the inclusion of the most expensive rooms: the kitchen and bathroom. For those on a tight budget, a garage conversion is often the most affordable way to build an ADU and can offer the best return on investment when used as a rental. For new stand-alone ADUs, costs can be minimized with simple designs and affordable yet durable finishes. During the planning process, we can provide advice on how to keep costs down while maintaining high quality.

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How Long Will It Take to Design, Permit, and Build?

At OCA Builders, your premier Santa Cruz ADU builder, we are committed to guiding you through the entire ADU construction process, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey from concept to completion.

Design Phase:

Typically takes about 4-6 months, depending on the complexity of the project.

Permitting Phase:

Usually requires another 3-5 months.

Construction Phase:

Generally takes 6-7 months for garage conversions, 7-8 months for smaller stand-alone ADUs, and around a year for large ADUs. The timeline may vary depending on the project's complexity and the season (e.g., rainy weather can cause delays).

Pre-Designed ADU Plans Approved by Santa Cruz County

425 square foot studio or optional 1-bedroom and 1-bathroom with 76 square foot front porch.

Choose between classic bungalow, coastal Mediterranean, and sleek modern.
Permit fees: approximately $5,000*

637 square foot 1-bedroom and 1-bathroom with 85 square foot front porch.

Choose between classic bungalow, coastal Mediterranean, and sleek modern.
Permit fees: approximately $6,000*

998 square foot 2-bedroom and 1-bathroom with 62 square foot front porch.

Choose between classic bungalow, coastal Mediterranean, and sleek modern.
Permit fees: approximately $20,000* + Impact Fees**

Ready to start your ADU Build?

Better yet, see us in person!

We stay in constant communication with our customers until the job is done. To get a free quote, or if you have questions or special requests, just drop us a line.

OCA Builders: ADU Construction

331 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, California 95062, United States

(831) 425-9183

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Cost Estimation for ADU Projects

How much will my ADU cost?

OCA Builders CSLB #1047731

A Breakdown of ADU Costs

Soft Costs:

Building Costs

How Long Will It Take to Design, Permit, and Build?

Pre-Designed ADU Plans Approved by Santa Cruz County

Ready to start your ADU Build?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Better yet, see us in person!

OCA Builders: ADU Construction

Hours

Subscribe

Cost Estimation for ADU Projects

How much will my ADU cost?

OCA Builders CSLB #1047731

A Breakdown of ADU Costs

Soft Costs:

Building Costs

How Long Will It Take to Design, Permit, and Build?

Pre-Designed ADU Plans Approved by Santa Cruz County

Ready to start your ADU Build?

Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Better yet, see us in person!

OCA Builders: ADU Construction

Hours

Subscribe

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