Accessory Dwelling Unit?
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What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An accessory dwelling unit or ADU is also known as a secondary dwelling, laneway house, in-law suite or a casita. Although many terms can be used, ADU is the most commonly-used across the United States for this type of housing. ADUs are self-contained living spaces that are either attached or detached to the primary residence and located on the same property.
Can I Build an ADU on my Property?
Many new laws and regulations have been passed across the United States that create more housing opportunities and significantly reduce restrictions on building an ADU on your property. To find out if you are able to build an ADU on your property, you will need to check with your local jurisdiction. There are many areas where the regulations can be different from city to city, so it is important to do your research before you begin. If you’re interested in building an ADU with G.J. Gardner, this is something we can handle for you.
What are the Benefits of an ADU?
Provides a long-term investment
Take advantage of unused backyard space
Multiple finance options available
Added tax benefits
Increase your property value
Diversifies your income risk
Added livable space
How can you use an ADU?
Game Room
Craft or Hobby Room
Home Office
Housing for Parents
Rental Property
Space for Kids
Are Tiny Houses and ADUs the same thing?
Not always, but they are really good friends. ADUs can be tiny houses, but tiny houses are not always ADUs.
Here are the major differences between the two:
Tiny House
“Tiny” 100-400 S.F.
Permanent or Mobile
Essentially Anywhere
Cool Toy Like A RV/Boat
None Required
VS
SIZE
MOBILITY
LOCATION
DESCRIPTION
UTILITIES
ADU/Granny Flat
“Small” 300-1,200 S.F.
Permanent
Existing Home Property
Real Estate, Lifestyle
All Required
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What are The Types of ADUs?
Detached New Home
Attached Addition
Basement Apartment
Attic Apartment
Over-Garage Apartment
Garage Conversion
Our ADU Process
From our initial consultation to handing over your keys, we will be with you through it all. Our 7 step ADU Process and Five-Star Performance Checklist, ensure a smooth construction process and a qualify finished product, every time.
Step 1 - Consultation
The first step in the G.J. Gardner ADU process is to sit down with one of our friendly consultants and discuss your ADU proposed location, feasibility and purpose.
Step 2 - Preliminary Design
After meeting you, we then get to know everything about your lot/backyard- dimensions, topography, location of utilities, landscaping, etc. We then select an efficient ADU design that fits perfectly into your backyard with required setbacks.
Step 3 - Plan Approval
At this stage, we request a deposit and present you with a contract. We then will complete your plan and present it to you for final review. Your ADU proposal is then submitted to local municipality and fast tracked for approval.
Step 4 - Site Preparation
We now start the construction process of your new ADU. During this stage, we connect all existing utilities and prepare the site for foundation.
Step 5 - Exterior Finish
Your ADU’s exterior color selections and materials will look similar to your current home. Our Five-Star Performance Checklist guarantees that the exterior materials come together to create a beautiful new ADU every time.
Step 6 - Interior Finish
During this step, your selected inclusions are carefully installed with our highest quality craftsmanship. We also welcome you to inspect our work before we complete the finishing touches.
Step 7 - Handover
When building is completed, we’ll be issued a Certificate of Occupancy, then request final payment and schedule your walk-though. After we complete the home orientation and received payment, we’ll hand over the keys to your new ADU!
Our ADU Process
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Why Build With G.J. Gardner Homes?
G.J. Gardner Homes, has been building and renovating homes and ADUs for over 30 years. We bring together a dedicated and talented team of designers, architects, licensed builders, skilled contractors and project managers- with one primary objective- to build quality and affordable homes in your backyard. A member of our qualified team is there beside you from your initial on-site evaluation, through the design process, approval, on-site construction, all the way through handing over the keys to your new ADU. Our ADUs are built to meet all California building standards using only quality building products and materials sourced from well-known suppliers and manufacturers. Click here to view G.J. Gardner ADU Designs.
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(c) Copyright G.J. Gardner Homes 2026 & Heritage Home Builders of America, DBA: GJ Gardner Homes Figarden Fresno. Images and photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features either not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes or not included in any price stated. These items include furniture, swimming pools, pool decks, fences, landscaping. Price does not include all facades shown. For detailed home pricing, please talk to a new homes consultant.