Bay Area's Trusted ADU Builder - Metricon Homes

Step 1: Free Site Consultation & Feasibility Review

• Every successful ADU project starts with a strong foundation—both literally and figuratively. That’s why we offer a complimentary on-site consultation to evaluate your property, discuss your goals, and identify any zoning or space limitations. We’ll assess access points, utilities, and local setbacks to determine what’s possible and help you make informed decisions from day one.

Step 2: Custom Design Planning with Your Input

• Once we understand your site and goals, our design team will work closely with you to develop a custom floor plan that balances functionality, style, and efficiency. You’ll have the opportunity to review layouts, finishes, and features—whether you're aiming for a modern studio, a cozy in-law suite, or a two-bedroom rental unit. We tailor every design to reflect your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Step 3: Permitting Handled by Our In-House Experts

• The Bay Area is known for its complex permitting process, but with Metricon, you don’t have to worry. Our in-house team is experienced with city-specific ADU codes and works directly with local planning and building departments to submit applications, address revisions, and secure approvals as quickly as possible. We handle the paperwork and red tape so you can focus on the exciting parts of your project.

Step 4: Quality Construction by Licensed Professionals

• Once permits are approved, our licensed and insured construction team gets to work. We use high-quality materials and proven building techniques to ensure your ADU meets all safety standards and is built to last. Throughout the process, you’ll receive regular updates and have a dedicated project manager to answer questions and keep the timeline on track.

Step 5: Final Inspection and Move-In Ready Handoff

• After construction is complete, we coordinate the final inspection to ensure your new unit complies with all local building codes and is 100% move-in ready. From there, we’ll walk you through the finished space and provide everything you need for a seamless transition—whether you're planning to rent it out, house a family member, or enjoy it yourself. With Metricon Homes, your ADU is truly turnkey.

One-Bedroom, Two-Bedroom, and Studio Layouts

• We build studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom ADUs, each optimized for comfort, privacy, and efficient use of space. Our studio layouts are perfect for backyard offices, guest houses, or short-term rentals, while our one- and two-bedroom options are ideal for multi-generational living or generating rental income. No matter the size, every unit is designed to feel open, functional, and connected to the main property.

Modern Finishes and Smart Home Integrations

• A Metricon ADU isn’t just functional—it’s stylish. We offer modern finishes, including quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and sleek fixtures that elevate the look and feel of your space. For added convenience and security, we also offer smart home features such as keyless entry, smart thermostats, and remote-controlled lighting—allowing you or your tenants to manage the unit easily and efficiently.

Energy-Efficient Materials and Green Building Practices

• Sustainability is built into every ADU we construct. Our homes use energy-efficient windows, insulation, and appliances to reduce utility costs and environmental impact. We follow green building best practices, including low-VOC materials and water-saving fixtures, so you can feel confident your ADU supports a healthier home and planet.

Optional Upgrades: Solar, EV Charging, Accessibility Features

• Want to future-proof your ADU? We offer a variety of optional upgrades to enhance usability, sustainability, and resale value. These include solar panel integration, EV charging stations, and ADA-compliant features such as wider doorways, ramps, and barrier-free showers. Whether you’re preparing for aging in place or increasing appeal to future renters, our design team can help you build an ADU that fits your long-term vision.
• With Metricon Homes, you’re not just building a small unit—you’re creating a space that’s smart, stylish, and ready for anything.

What are the size limits for ADUs in different Bay Area cities?

• The size limits for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in the Bay Area vary depending on the city and the type of ADU (e.g., attached, detached, junior). However, California state law sets minimum standards that local jurisdictions must follow—cities can be more flexible, but not more restrictive. Here's a breakdown of general ADU size limits across major Bay Area cities:

California State Minimums (Applies Across All Cities)

• Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sq. ft.
• Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the primary residence, capped at 1,200 sq. ft.
• Junior ADUs (JADUs): Up to 500 sq. ft. (must be within the existing home)

San Francisco

• Detached ADUs: Generally up to 1,200 sq. ft., depending on lot size and zoning
• Attached ADUs: Subject to lot and existing building size; up to 1,200 sq. ft.
• JADUs: Allowed up to 500 sq. ft. within existing space
• JMultiple ADUs may be allowed in multifamily buildings

Oakland

• Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sq. ft.
• Attached ADUs: 50% of existing home, max 1,200 sq. ft.
• Oakland generally aligns closely with California state law, with added allowances for historic lots or homes in certain zones.

San Jose

• Detached ADUs:
• Up to 1,000 sq. ft. for lots under 9,000 sq. ft.
• Up to 1,200 sq. ft. for larger lots
• Attached ADUs: Same 50% rule, capped at 1,200 sq. ft.
• Additional size allowances for basements and conversions

Berkeley

• Detached & Attached ADUs: Up to 850 sq. ft. for 1-bedroom, or 1,000 sq. ft. for 2+ bedrooms
• Can go up to 1,200 sq. ft. if city zoning allows
• JADUs: Up to 500 sq. ft., must be within existing residence

Other Bay Area Cities (e.g., Palo Alto, Fremont, Daly City, Santa Clara)

• Most follow California’s baseline rules, with small variations in:
• Setbacks
• Height limits
• Parking requirements
• Historic district exceptions

When Parking Is Not Required for an ADU

• California law (Gov Code § 65852.2) says you don’t have to provide parking for an ADU if your property meets any of the following conditions:
• It's located within ½ mile of public transit (a bus stop, train station, etc.)
• It's part of an existing or proposed primary residence or accessory structure (such as a garage or basement conversion)
• It's located in a historic district or area where on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the ADU
• It’s built on a lot with a car share vehicle within one block

Local City Adaptations

• Most Bay Area cities—including San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, and Berkeley—follow state law and do not require ADU parking in urban areas near transit.
• However:
• Some suburban cities or hillside zones may have stricter interpretations or require replacement parking if an existing garage or carport is converted into an ADU.
• Replacement parking (on-site or street) may be required only if you remove an existing parking space to build the ADU—again, city-specific.

How Metricon Homes Helps

• Navigating parking rules can be tricky, especially with overlapping local and state codes. Metricon Homes handles all zoning and code checks during our feasibility review, so you’ll know exactly what’s required for your property—no guesswork, no surprises.

How long does the process take to build an ADU in the Bay Area?

• The full process to design, permit, and build an ADU in the Bay Area typically takes 8 to 12 months, depending on your property, the city you're in, and the type of ADU you’re building. Here's a general timeline:

Site Consultation & Design (1–2 Months)

• Property evaluation, feasibility study, and custom design planning
• Includes selecting layout, finishes, and features with your input
• May move faster for standard plans or pre-approved designs

Permitting Process (2–4 Months)

• Submitting architectural plans and permit applications to the local city planning department
• Timelines vary by city (San Francisco and Berkeley may take longer than San Jose or Fremont)
• Metricon Homes handles all permitting to minimize delays

Construction (4–6 Months)

• Site preparation, foundation work, framing, utilities, and interior finishing
• Weather, inspections, and material availability can impact timing
• Garage conversions and prefab ADUs may be on the faster end

Final Inspection & Move-In (1–2 Weeks)

• Final walkthrough and inspection by the city
• Once approved, the unit is ready for occupancy or rental use

Variables That Can Affect Your Timeline:

• The city’s permit processing speed
• Site access and existing utility connections
• Type of ADU: detached, attached, or conversion
• Historic district or hillside zoning restrictions
• Custom vs. pre-approved plans

Long-Term Rentals Are Allowed

• Across most Bay Area cities, long-term rentals (30 days or more) are allowed for both detached and attached ADUs. This includes renting to:
• Tenants
• Extended family
• Students or professionals

Short-Term Rentals (e.g., Airbnb) May Be Restricted

• Many cities in the Bay Area prohibit or tightly regulate short-term rentals (under 30 days) in ADUs. For example:
• San Francisco requires registration and has strict eligibility rules
• Berkeley and Oakland limit short-term rentals in ADUs, especially if the primary home is not owner-occupied
• San Jose generally prohibits ADUs from being used as short-term rentals

Rental Rules Vary by City

• While California law encourages rental use of ADUs, each city can set its own local guidelines, including:
• Owner-occupancy requirements (for JADUs or specific zoning areas)
• Rental registration or business licenses
• Rent control or tenant protections in certain jurisdictions (e.g., Berkeley, Oakland)

How Metricon Homes Helps

• We don’t just build your ADU—we help you understand how you can legally and profitably rent it out. During our consultation process, we’ll explain your city’s current rental rules and help you design your unit with future tenants in mind.

Home Equity Loans (HEL) & Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC)

• These are among the most popular options for ADU financing:
• HEL: A lump sum loan based on the equity you’ve built in your home, typically with fixed interest rates.
• HELOC: A revolving line of credit you can draw from as needed during your ADU project, with variable rates.

Cash-Out Refinance

• With this option, you refinance your existing mortgage and take out extra cash based on your home’s equity.
• Pros: Potential for better mortgage terms; large lump sum for construction
• Cons: Resets your mortgage; closing costs apply

Renovation Loans (Fannie Mae HomeStyle® or FHA 203(k))

• These government-backed loans combine the cost of the home and renovation (including ADU construction) into a single mortgage.
• Pros: Lower down payments; ideal for those purchasing a new home and adding an ADU
• Cons: More paperwork; specific lender qualifications required

Personal Loans

• Unsecured loans from banks or online lenders can be used for smaller ADU projects like garage conversions or interior remodels.
• Pros: Fast approval; no home equity needed
• Cons: Higher interest rates; lower borrowing limits

Local ADU Grant & Loan Programs

• Some Bay Area cities and counties offer ADU-specific funding support:
• San Mateo County: Offers ADU loans and technical assistance
• Berkeley & Oakland: Occasionally offer funding for low- or moderate-income homeowners
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): Has introduced ADU grant programs that can cover predevelopment costs (check current availability)
• Pros: Free or low-interest capital for eligible applicants
• Cons: Often income- or location-restricted; limited availability

Private ADU Financing Partners

• Metricon Homes works with select lenders who specialize in ADU financing, offering customized solutions including construction loans, staged disbursements, and payment deferral until the unit is rented or completed.

Need Help Finding the Right Option?

• When you build with Metricon Homes, we’ll walk you through the financing process and connect you with trusted lenders who understand the unique nature of ADU projects in the Bay Area. Whether you’re tapping into equity or looking for low-risk funding, we’ll help you choose the best path forward.