An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a smaller, self-contained living space built on the same property as a primary home. In Fort Lauderdale, FL, homeowners usually create an ADU in one of two ways: as a home addition built onto or near the existing house, or as a garage conversion that turns an existing garage into finished living space. A Class Remodeling works with homeowners throughout Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Victoria Park, Oakland Park and Coral Ridge Isles to plan and build both.
This guide covers what an ADU is, the two paths homeowners typically take to build one, and how A Class Remodeling approaches an ADU project from the first conversation through the final walkthrough.
What Is an ADU?
An ADU is a secondary living space on a residential lot. Depending on your property and your goals, an ADU can take a few different forms:
- A converted garage turned into a guest suite, home office, or studio
- An addition built onto the main house with its own entrance
- A private space for a family member, such as an aging parent or adult child
- Extra living space used as a home office, gym, or rental unit
Because every property is different, the right approach depends on how much space you already have to work with and what you want the finished space to do.
Home Addition or Garage Conversion: Which Fits Your Property?
Homeowners building an ADU in Fort Lauderdale generally choose between two paths.
Garage Conversion
If you have an underused garage, converting it is often the most direct way to add living space. A Class Remodeling handles the insulation, electrical, flooring, drywall and finish work needed to turn a garage into a room the household will actually use, whether that is a guest suite, a home office, or a playroom.
Home Addition
If your garage is in regular use or your property has room to build, a home addition can create a new living space attached to or near the main house. Our crews handle the framing, electrical, plumbing and finish work a home addition requires, matching the new space to your existing home so it looks and feels like it belongs there.
Zoning and Permits
Before any ADU project begins, it has to work within Fort Lauderdale's zoning rules and building requirements, including property setbacks, square footage limits, parking and utility connections. Working with a local remodeling contractor who understands these requirements helps you avoid delays once construction is underway. A Class Remodeling handles the permitting conversation as part of the planning process, so you know what is required before work starts.
How A Class Remodeling Builds an ADU
Step 1: Consultation
Every project starts with a conversation about how you use your home and what you want the new space to do. This is where we look at whether a garage conversion or a home addition makes more sense for your property.
Step 2: Design and Planning
Once we understand your goals, we move into layout planning and budgeting, so you know what to expect before construction begins.
Step 3: Permitting
We handle the permitting conversation with the city so your project is set up to move forward without unnecessary delays.
Step 4: Construction
From framing and electrical to insulation, drywall and finish work, our crews keep you informed at each stage of the build.
Step 5: Final Walkthrough
Once construction wraps up, we walk the finished space with you to confirm it matches the plan and is ready to use.
What Affects the Cost of an ADU
Every ADU project is priced around the specific scope of the work, including the size of the space, the finish level you choose, and whether the project is a garage conversion or a new addition. Because these factors vary from property to property, A Class Remodeling provides a project-specific estimate after walking the space with you, rather than a one-size-fits-all number.
Why Homeowners Choose A Class Remodeling
A Class Remodeling is a local remodeling contractor serving Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Victoria Park, Oakland Park and Coral Ridge Isles. We manage ADU projects, whether built as a home addition or a garage conversion, from the first conversation through the final walkthrough, with the same team measuring, planning and finishing your project. Our focus is on craftsmanship, safety and clear communication, so you know what is happening at every stage of your build.
If you are weighing a home addition against a garage conversion for your ADU, contact A Class Remodeling or call (754) 457-2737 to talk through your property and your goals.