Building a Custom ADU in Malibu

Adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your Malibu home is made easy with South Land Remodeling.

Building a custom ADU in Malibu, CA, can provide a wide range of benefits, such as increasing the value of your home, expanding your living space, adding a source of rental income or all three. With those advantages, it’s no wonder you’re interested in ADU construction.

South Land Remodeling can assist you on your journey to adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your property. We are an award-winning ADU builder with more than 25 years of experience building accessory dwelling units from the ground up or converting an existing structure into an ADU.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Determine the Type of Accessory Dwelling Unit You Want to Add to Your Malibu Home

There are different types of ADUs. The type you choose depends on what benefits and functionality you’re looking to get out of the ADU.

Do you want to create a granny flat for a relative? Or, do you want to host guests in a separate structure, away from your primary home? Then, you’ll want a detached ADU, which is typically built in the backyard.

If you’re interested in adding to your family home’s current floor plan, an attached ADU is an option. This is also called a conversion. But it’s important to note that an ADU operates like a stand-alone structure, typically with its own full bathroom and kitchenette. This is different from a home expansion, which expands the square footage of an existing space.

You can also add a second story to your home and turn it into an apartment through a second-story addition with its own entrance.

There are so many options, depending on your property and needs!

Step 2: Enlist an Experienced, Licensed ADU Contractor

ADU construction permits must be obtained by licensed contractors in Los Angeles and its surrounding counties. That is why it’s especially important the contractor you hire is licensed by the Contractors State License Board. In addition to licensing, you should check the contractors’ reviews and work samples to determine if they are the right fit for your needs.

South Land Remodeling is a local, licensed contractor with years of experience building ADUs from the ground up - either attached or detached - and converting existing structures into new spaces. We’re also experts at the permitting process, with ample knowledge of state law requirements and ADU ordinances issued by the city of Los Angeles and surrounding cities. We manage the entire permit process, including building and zoning documentation acquisition.

Step 3: Schedule an In-Home Meeting & Receive an Estimate

Schedule a meeting with us to visit your home, view your space and discuss your needs, vision and budget. Following the meeting, our team will provide a proposal for the ADU, outlining labor costs and the project timeline.

Step 4: Sign the Contract & Prep the Project

When you sign our standard, easy-to-read California contract, we begin making preparations for your project. We’ll discuss and determine the timeline, design and daily schedule. You’ll also have a chance to meet with your remodeling team, which may include an architect, engineer, designer and workers.

Step 5: Let’s Get to Work!

As a full-service general contractor, South Land Remodeling manages every aspect of the ADU project from start to finish. This includes:

Architectural Planning
Floor Plans
Design
Engineering & HVAC
Permit Acquisition
Demolition
Structural Improvements
Construction (Kitchen, Bath, etc.)
Electrical & Lighting
Roofing, Flooring, Tilework & Painting
Windows & Doors
Solar Panels
Title 24 Energy Efficiency

We also offer 30 ADU plans pre-approved by the city of Los Angeles for quicker permit turnaround. Our pre-approved plans range from 200 to 1,200 square feet and from studios to two stories. These plans also offer great features such as rooftop decks, exterior staircases and patios.

With South Land Remodeling, it’s as simple as five steps!

South Land Remodeling is a licensed general contractor in Los Angeles who has years of experience and expertise building ADUs for Malibu, CA, residents. If you’re interested in building an accessory dwelling unit at your address, contact us today for a free estimate. You can also check out our recent ADU projects for inspiration.