ADU Construction in Burlingame

Your local design-build contractor for permitted garage conversions, detached ADUs, and JADUs in Burlingame, CA.

South San Francisco

ADU Building by Romy Construction

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a powerful way to maximize your property’s potential in Burlingame, whether you’re looking to generate rental income, create an in-law suite for family, or add a private home office. But building an ADU is a complex project that involves strict zoning laws, building codes, and city permits. Romy Constructions is a licensed general contractor that specializes in managing the entire ADU process, from initial feasibility and design to construction and final sign-off.

Step 1: Feasibility, Design & Budgeting

We start with a consultation to assess your property’s eligibility based on Burlingame’s zoning and setback rules. We then work with you to design a floor plan that meets your needs and provide a detailed, transparent budget for the entire project.

Step 2: Plans & Permit Submittal

Our team develops the full architectural and structural plans required by the city. We submit this package to the Burlingame Building Department and manage all communication and revisions to secure your building permit.

Step 3: Construction & Utility Hookups

Once the permit is issued, our construction crew gets to work. We handle every phase of the build, including the critical installation and connection of separate utilities (water, sewer, electrical, gas) as required for your new ADU

ADU Gallery

Explore our portfolio of completed projects to see how we’ve transformed indoor spaces for homeowners like you. Our gallery offers a wealth of ideas to spark your imagination.

ADU Building by Romy Construction

Types of ADUs We Build in Burlingame

We handle all common types of ADU projects, ensuring each is designed to fit your property and meet Burlingame’s specific regulations.

Detached ADUs (Backyard Cottages)

A detached ADU is a standalone new structure built in your backyard. This option offers the most privacy and is ideal for a full rental unit or guest house. We manage the new foundation, framing, roofing, and full utility connections for a completely new, small home on your lot.

Garage Conversion ADUs

This is one of the most cost-effective ways to add an ADU. We convert your existing attached or detached garage into a fully legal and permitted living space. The process involves upgrading the foundation, adding insulation, installing a kitchen and bathroom, and ensuring proper windows and doors for a comfortable living environment.

An attached ADU is a new addition built onto your existing home. It shares a wall with the primary house but has its own separate entrance, kitchen, and bathroom. This is a great way to add an in-law suite while maintaining a direct connection to the main home. 

Junior ADUs (JADUs)

A JADU is a smaller unit (up to 500 sq ft) created within the existing walls of your home, often from a spare bedroom. It requires an exterior entrance and an efficiency kitchen. JADUs are a smart option for adding a simple studio for a family member or student.

Top Rated ADU Contractor in Burlingame

Romy Construction offers premier home addition services in Burlingame, specializing in ADUs and remodeling projects. Our expert team ensures quality and satisfaction.

Navigating the Complexities of a Burlingame ADU Project

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit is more complex than a standard remodel, involving unique zoning laws, utility requirements, and construction challenges. As your local Burlingame specialist, we expertly manage these key areas to ensure a smooth, successful project.

  • Feasibility, Zoning & Permits The first step is determining what you can legally build. We navigate Burlingame’s specific ADU zoning rules, including setback requirements from property lines, maximum size limitations, and height restrictions. Our team handles the entire complex permitting process, from architectural plans to final city approval.

  • Understanding the True Costs & Utility Connections An ADU budget is unique. Because you are building a small, self-contained home, the cost-per-square-foot is often higher than a simple addition. We provide a detailed budget that accounts for everything, including often-overlooked expenses like trenching for new sewer, water, and electrical lines from the street or main house.

  • A Coordinated Design-Build Process We act as your single point of contact for the entire project. By managing both the design and the construction, we ensure the plans are realistic, the budget is accurate, and the final build is executed efficiently. This integrated approach prevents the costly delays and miscommunication that can occur when using separate architects and contractors.

ADU Building by Romy Construction

Start your next renovation journey today with a FREE consultation

Schedule a consultation to discuss ADU design ideas and see how they can be brought to life.  

Common Questions about ADUs

Find answers to common questions about ADUs. Get the information you need to make an informed decision about your next step.

Most single-family residential lots in Burlingame are eligible for at least one ADU and potentially a JADU as well. The key factors are meeting setback requirements (how far the structure must be from property lines) and lot coverage limits. During our free consultation, we can provide a preliminary assessment of your property's potential.

An ADU can be up to 850 sq ft (for one bedroom) or 1,000 sq ft (for two+ bedrooms) and can be attached or detached. A JADU is smaller (max 500 sq ft), must be created within the existing home's walls, and can share a bathroom with the main house. We can help you decide which is right for you.

It depends. For most detached ADUs, the City of Burlingame will require new, separate utility connections for water, sewer, and electricity. For conversions or JADUs, it can sometimes be possible to tie into the main house's systems. We will determine the exact requirements during the planning phase.

The cost varies significantly by type. A garage conversion is typically the least expensive option, while a new, detached ADU is the most expensive, often costing as much per square foot as a new custom home due to the need for a foundation, full utilities, a kitchen, and a bathroom in a small footprint. We provide a detailed, line-item budget before any work begins.

Locally Trusted Since 2023 – Specializing in South San Francisco, San Francisco County, Marin County & San Mateo County

Our Bay Area clients consistently praise how we blend regional expertise with quality craftsmanship to deliver exceptional results. Having served local homeowners since 2023, we’ve mastered the unique challenges of home renovations—from coastal humidity considerations to navigating strict permitting processes—ensuring every project meets both your vision and local standards.

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