ADU Construction
Turn your backyard into a revenue stream with a code-compliant accessory dwelling unit.
Unlock Your Backyard's Full Potential
Austin's HOME Initiative has changed the game for homeowners. Under the city's 3-unit zoning policy, most single-family lots can now support up to three residential units — opening the door to detached guest houses, granny flats, garage conversions, and over-garage apartments without rezoning.
At TrueBuilt Remodeling and Construction, we specialize in designing and building code-compliant accessory dwelling units that navigate Austin's complex regulatory landscape. From impervious cover limits and Heritage Tree Ordinance compliance to utility connections and setback requirements, we handle every technical detail so you can focus on the return — whether that's rental income, multigenerational living, or long-term property value.
- Detached backyard ADUs (500 – 1,100 sq ft)
- Garage-to-living-space conversions
- Over-garage apartments
- HOME Initiative 3-unit zoning compliance
- Impervious cover calculations
- Utility connection management
Scope of Work
Detached ADUs (Backyard Cottages)
Standalone structures built in your backyard with separate utility connections. Ranging from 500 to 1,100 square feet, each unit includes a full kitchen, bathroom, private entrance, and independent living space designed for comfort and code compliance.
Garage Conversions
Transform your existing garage into a fully conditioned living space. We handle insulation, HVAC installation, plumbing and electrical upgrades, foundation leveling, egress windows, and all finish work to create a comfortable, permitted dwelling unit.
Over-Garage Apartments
Maximize your vertical space with a two-story structure featuring full living quarters above an existing or new garage. Separate entrance, complete kitchen and bath, and independent systems — ideal for rental income or extended family housing.
Austin Zoning Navigation
We decode Austin's complex regulatory framework including HOME Initiative rules, impervious cover calculations, Heritage Tree Ordinance compliance, parking requirements, and setback analysis to ensure your ADU project is fully buildable before design begins.
Utility & Infrastructure
Separate electrical service panels, water and sewer tap connections, dedicated HVAC installation, and fire-rated separation walls per International Residential Code. We coordinate with Austin Energy and Austin Water to handle every infrastructure requirement.
Condo Regime & Rental Setup
Establishing condo regimes for separate sale of individual units, optimizing ADU design for Airbnb or long-term tenant appeal, and ensuring your investment is structured for maximum rental income potential and long-term property value growth.
Our ADU Construction Process
Lot Eligibility Assessment
We evaluate your lot's zoning, setbacks, impervious cover allowance, Heritage Tree locations, and utility access to determine exactly what you can build — before you invest a dollar in design.
ADU Design & Code Review
Our team creates detailed architectural plans, structural engineering drawings, and MEP layouts tailored to your lot constraints and investment goals. Every design is pre-reviewed against current City of Austin code requirements.
Permitting & Pre-Construction
We submit all permit applications to the City of Austin Development Services Department, respond to plan review comments, and coordinate pre-construction logistics including utility tap applications and site preparation.
Build & Certificate of Occupancy
Construction begins with daily progress updates through your client portal. We manage all inspections, pass final code review, and deliver your completed ADU with a full Certificate of Occupancy — ready for move-in or rental.
What Goes Into a ADU Construction?
Key factors that shape your investment:
- City of Austin ADU permits are required for all unit types — TrueBuilt manages the full application and review process
- Separate utility connections (water, sewer, electric meter) add scope depending on lot layout and Austin Water requirements
- Foundation type (slab, pier-and-beam, or drilled pier) varies by lot conditions and existing soil
- Austin impervious cover limits may restrict total ADU footprint — site assessment determines your available capacity
- HOME Initiative (2024) eliminated variance requirements — most Austin lots now qualify for ADU construction by right
* ADU investment is determined by lot feasibility, unit size, impervious cover capacity, and utility connection requirements. Free site assessments available.