Q: What is the difference between a Garage ADU and a JADU (Junior ADU)?

Garage ADU: A fully independent living space up to 1,000–1,200 sq. ft. (depending on local regulations). It must include its own kitchen, bathroom, and dedicated exterior entrance. JADU (Junior ADU): A smaller unit (maximum 500 sq. ft.) created strictly within the existing footprint of the main house or attached garage. A JADU requires an efficiency kitchen and can share a bathroom with the primary residence.

Question 1

Do I need permits for a garage conversion?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Unpermitted conversions can lead to fines, difficulties selling your home, and mandatory removal of unapproved work. We handle the entire permitting process—from architectural drafting to final city sign-off.

Question 2

Will converting my garage increase my property value?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A fully permitted garage ADU typically increases total property value by 20% to 30% while offering high long-term ROI through potential monthly rental income.

Question 3

What is the difference between a Garage ADU and a JADU (Junior ADU)?

Accepted Answer

Garage ADU: A fully independent living space up to 1,000–1,200 sq. ft. (depending on local regulations). It must include its own kitchen, bathroom, and dedicated exterior entrance.

JADU (Junior ADU): A smaller unit (maximum 500 sq. ft.) created strictly within the existing footprint of the main house or attached garage. A JADU requires an efficiency kitchen and can share a bathroom with the primary residence.

Question 4

What is an ADU, and why should I convert my garage into one?

Accepted Answer

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as a main single-family home. Converting an existing garage is often the most cost-effective way to build an ADU because the main structural shell—the foundation, walls, and roof—is already in place. It allows you to create living space for family members or generate steady monthly rental income without taking up extra yard space.

Conversions Made Easy

Transform your property into a valuable living space with expert craftsmanship in the Bay Area.

Unlock Your Property's Potential

Start Your Garage Conversion Today

Contact Westshores Construction for a free assessment and turn your garage into a beautiful, functional space.

Answers to common questions

Find quick, clear information to help you get started

Do I need permits for a garage conversion?

Will converting my garage increase my property value?

What is the difference between a Garage ADU and a JADU (Junior ADU)?

What is an ADU, and why should I convert my garage into one?

Conversions Made Easy

Transform your property into a valuable living space with expert craftsmanship in the Bay Area.

Unlock Your Property's Potential

Our work

Our work

Start Your Garage Conversion Today

Contact Westshores Construction for a free assessment and turn your garage into a beautiful, functional space.

Answers to common questions

Find quick, clear information to help you get started

Question

Do I need permits for a garage conversion?

Question

Will converting my garage increase my property value?

Question

What is the difference between a Garage ADU and a JADU (Junior ADU)?

Question

What is an ADU, and why should I convert my garage into one?