The fastest way to add real square footage.
Garage conversions are the fastest, cheapest path to more livable space. ADU PALS handles the full conversion process — design, permits, and construction — whether you're building a junior ADU, a full ADU, or just expanding into your existing footprint.
What's included
Conversions look simple. They rarely are. The devil is in the details: insulation, moisture, ceiling height, egress, utilities.
- 01 Existing conditions assessment (structure, envelope, MEP)
- 02 Conversion scope: full ADU, junior ADU, or attached expansion
- 03 Design + code compliance planning
- 04 Structural upgrades where required
- 05 Full permit plans + engineering
- 06 City submission and correction management
How conversions work
Assessment
On-site walkthrough. We tell you honestly if the garage is worth converting, or if a new detached ADU is a better path.
Design
Interior layout, code compliance, MEP planning.
Permits
City submission and correction rounds.
Build
Optional in-house construction.
Common questions
01 What's the difference between a garage conversion and an ADU?
A garage conversion can be an ADU, a junior ADU, or just more living space attached to the main home. If it has independent utilities, kitchen, and bath, it's legally an ADU. Junior ADUs are a specific category up to 500 sqft with shared plumbing.
02 How much does a garage conversion cost in San Diego?
Attached conversion (no ADU): $80K–$140K. Junior ADU conversion: $105K–$180K. Full ADU conversion: $135K–$240K. Ranges depend on structural, MEP, and finish level.
03 How long does a conversion take?
10–14 months total. Design + permits: 4–7 months. Construction: 3–5 months.
04 Can I keep parking somewhere else?
In most SD jurisdictions, yes — parking replacement requirements were largely eliminated for ADUs within a half-mile of transit. Check the local overlay.
05 Is a garage conversion worth it vs a detached ADU?
Depends on scope and budget. Conversion is 30–50% cheaper and faster, but rents 15–25% less and adds less resale value. See our dedicated garage-vs-detached breakdown in the journal.
Often paired with this.
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Learn more →As-Built Plans in San Diego
Whether you're refinancing, selling, remodeling, or resolving a permit issue, accurate as-built drawings are the document every next step is going to …
Learn more →Have a garage to convert?
Free assessment. We tell you if it's worth it.