ADU Construction in Florida: Process, Cost & What to Expect
Introduction
As housing demand rises and multigenerational living becomes more common, Florida homeowners are increasingly turning to ADU construction to unlock the full potential of their property. An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, offers a flexible way to add living space for family, guests, or rental income—without moving or buying a second property.
At Greenland Development Group, we specialize in full-service ADU construction tailored for Florida homeowners. Whether you’re building a detached guest house, an in-law suite, or converting space above a garage, this guide walks you through everything you need to know—from permitting to pricing.
What Is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a self-contained residential structure located on the same lot as a primary home. ADUs can be detached, attached, or even converted from existing structures (like garages or basements).
Common Types of ADUs in Florida:
Detached ADUs: Separate buildings like guest houses or casitas.
Attached ADUs: Built as an extension of the primary home.
Garage Conversions: Existing garages converted into livable spaces.
Above-Garage Units: New construction above an existing garage.
Florida municipalities are gradually relaxing zoning laws to support more ADU construction, particularly in urban and suburban areas where housing supply is tight.
Why Build an ADU?
Here are the top reasons Florida homeowners pursue ADU construction:
Multigenerational Living: Perfect for elderly parents or adult children.
Rental Income: Long-term rental or Airbnb possibilities.
Property Value: Increases your home’s usable square footage.
Flexible Living: Great for guests, caretakers, or home offices.
Is Your Property Eligible for ADU Construction in Florida?
Before building an ADU, it’s critical to evaluate local requirements. Every county and municipality has its own zoning rules.
Key Factors:
- Lot size and setbacks
- Zoning district (single-family, multifamily, etc.)
- Max unit size (often capped at 800–1,200 sq ft)
- Parking requirements
Occupancy rules (owner-occupied or rental limits)
At Greenland Development Group, we handle all site feasibility assessments to determine if your lot qualifies.
The ADU Construction Process
Here’s what you can expect when working with a licensed Florida ADU builder like Greenland Development Group:
1. Initial Consultation
We discuss your goals, budget, and timeline, then evaluate your property’s ADU potential.
2. Site Evaluation & Design
Our team conducts zoning research and proposes design options customized to your needs.
3. Permitting & Approvals
We manage the entire permitting process with your local municipality—saving you time and headaches.
4. Construction Phase
Once approved, our construction team handles all phases: site prep, foundation, framing, utilities, roofing, and finishes.
5. Final Walk-Through & CO
After inspections and quality checks, we obtain the Certificate of Occupancy and hand over your new ADU.
Understanding ADU Construction Costs in Florida
ADU construction costs in Florida can vary significantly depending on several factors including location, square footage, access to utilities, design complexity, material choices, and local permitting requirements.
Factors That Influence Cost:
- Detached vs. attached or conversion
- Site conditions and grading needs
- Distance to existing utilities
- Size and floor plan layout
- Custom vs. standard finishes
Because of these variables, we provide detailed project-specific estimates during the planning phase. This ensures accuracy and transparency throughout the build.
How Long Does ADU Construction Take?
Most ADU projects take 4 to 8 months from consultation to completion, depending on scope and permit timelines.
Typical Timeline:
-
- Planning & Design: 4–6 weeks
- Permitting: 4–8 weeks
- Construction: 3–5 months
Greenland Development Group works proactively with city and county offices to minimize permitting delays.
Financing Your ADU
Many homeowners use one or more of the following to fund ADU construction:
- Home equity loans or HELOCs
- Cash-out refinancing
- Construction loans
- Private lending or partnerships
We can connect you with preferred local lenders who understand ADU-specific lending requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ADUs require separate utilities?
Not always. Some ADUs share water, sewer, and power with the main house, while others are metered separately.
Can I rent my ADU in Florida?
In most cases, yes—though some cities restrict short-term rentals like Airbnb. We help clarify your local guidelines.
Do I need an architect for ADU construction?
Yes. Our team includes design partners or can work with your architect. Most municipalities require stamped plans.
Why Choose Greenland Development Group for Your ADU?
✅ Licensed & insured Florida builder
✅ Deep knowledge of zoning & permitting
✅ Full-service: from plans to move-in
✅ Track record of on-time, on-budget builds
We make ADU construction stress-free—bringing expert guidance, project transparency, and reliable timelines to every project.
Get a Free ADU Consultation
If you’re considering building an ADU in Central Florida, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Whether you’re looking for more space, long-term value, or rental income, Greenland Development Group can help you bring your vision to life.
👉 Contact us here or call (689) 245-2506 to schedule your free on-site consultation.
Let’s build smarter. Let’s build together.
