ADU Construction Services in San Jose, CA
Looking for ADU construction in San Jose? Animas Valley Construction builds detached ADUs, garage conversions, JADUs & more. Licensed contractor with 15+ years experience. Request a free quote today.
Professional ADU Construction Services in San Jose, CA
Attached, Detached, Conversions & More
San Jose homeowners are increasingly turning to accessory dwelling units as a smart way to add living space, generate rental income, and increase property value. With California issuing over 60,000 ADU permits since 2018 and San Jose ranking among the state’s most active ADU markets, there has never been a better time to invest in an ADU on your property.
At Animas Valley Construction, we specialize in ADU construction for homeowners throughout San Jose and the surrounding South Bay communities. As a licensed general contractor (CA License #1027294) with over 15 years of residential construction experience, our team handles every phase of your ADU project — from initial design consultation and city permitting to full construction and final inspection.
San Jose’s median home prices exceed $1.1 million, and studies consistently show that a well-built ADU can increase property values by 20–30%. Beyond equity gains, a quality ADU in the San Jose rental market can generate $1,500 to $3,500 or more per month in rental income. That kind of return makes ADU construction one of the most financially sound investments a homeowner can make in today’s market.
We don’t just build structures — we build fully functional living spaces with kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas designed for comfort and long-term durability. Every project is managed directly by our owner, Daniel Zaragoza, ensuring hands-on oversight and the personalized attention that larger firms simply can’t match. From foundation to finish, we focus on quality craftsmanship, transparent communication, and delivering your ADU on time and within budget.
Ready to explore what’s possible on your property? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and receive a detailed ADU construction quote tailored to your lot, your goals, and your budget.
Types of ADUs We Build in San Jose
Detached ADUs
A standalone structure built separately from your primary residence, typically in the backyard. Detached ADUs offer maximum privacy and flexibility, with sizes up to 1,200 square feet — ideal for rental income or independent living quarters for family members.
Attached ADUs
An addition built directly onto your existing home, sharing at least one wall with the primary structure. Attached ADUs are often more cost-effective because they leverage your home’s existing foundation and utility connections, making them a great option for properties with limited yard space.
Garage Conversion ADUs
Transform your underutilized garage into a fully functional living space with a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Garage conversions are typically the most affordable ADU option since the basic structure already exists, and California law prohibits cities from requiring replacement parking.
Junior ADUs (JADUs)
A compact unit of up to 500 square feet built within the existing footprint of your primary home. JADUs are an excellent entry point for homeowners who want to add a rental unit or guest suite without the cost of new construction.
Two-Story ADUs
For homeowners who want to maximize square footage on a smaller lot, two-story ADUs build upward rather than outward. Recent California legislation allows heights of 18–25 feet in certain zones, giving you more design flexibility without sacrificing yard space.
Custom-Designed ADUs
Every property is different, and sometimes a standard approach won’t work. We design and build fully custom ADUs tailored to your lot’s dimensions, your aesthetic preferences, and your intended use — whether that’s multigenerational housing, a home office suite, or a premium rental unit.
Request an ADU Construction Consultation in San Jose, CA
Free Consultations
Take the first step toward building your ADU. Whether you’re exploring your options or ready to break ground, our team will evaluate your property, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed construction estimate — all at no cost to you. Fill out the form or reach out directly to get started.
- Phone: 408-629-4047
- Email: [email protected]
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- License: CA Contractor’s License #1027294
About Animas Valley Construction
Top Construction Company in San Jose
Animas Valley Construction is a San Jose-based general contractor founded by Daniel Zaragoza, who brings over 15 years of hands-on residential construction experience to every project. As a fully licensed and insured firm (CA License #1027294), we specialize in ADU construction, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, and home additions throughout the South Bay. Our owner-led approach means you work directly with the person managing your project — no middlemen, no runaround. Learn more about our team.
What Our Clients Say
I found Daniel, the owner, through recommendations from two neighbors who were extremely satisfied with his remodeling work. I also highly recommend Daniel. He completed my two-bathroom remodel beyond my expectations, both technically and aesthetically. The project passed all required city inspections and stayed on budget, all while my family remained in the home throughout the construction.
L. V.
Yelp ReviewWe had a fantastic experience with Animas Construction! They updated our living room, kitchen, family room, and bathroom — and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Daniel was incredibly supportive and attentive throughout the entire process. He really listened to our ideas and offered thoughtful suggestions to help improve our living spaces. We were also amazed at how efficiently Daniel and his team worked, completing everything on time without compromising quality. Their professionalism stood out, and they made sure to clean up thoroughly at the end of each day. Highly recommend Animas Construction!
Delia Besio
Google ReviewI contacted Daniel to remodel our Master bedroom…. Daniel showed up on time and gave us an honest and sincere evaluation to the project we had in mind. We are definitely pleased with his input to our concerns and we are executing his recommendations one phase at a time and we are at phase 2 out of 3. I will certainly provide another review when we are done with phase 3 … let me just say for now that so far so GOOD. So thank you Daniel Animas.
Miguel Dabliz
Google ReviewWhy Choose Animas Valley Construction for Your San Jose ADU Project
Owner-Led Project Management
Every ADU project is personally overseen by our founder, Daniel Zaragoza. This hands-on approach ensures consistent quality, clear communication, and accountability from the first consultation through final walkthrough.
Years of Residential Construction Experience
Our team has spent over a decade and a half building, remodeling, and renovating homes across the Bay Area. That depth of experience translates into fewer surprises, smarter solutions, and a finished product built to last.
Full-Service ADU Construction
We handle everything — design consultation, architectural planning, city permitting, construction, and final inspection. You get a single point of contact for your entire project, eliminating the hassle of coordinating multiple contractors.
Deep Knowledge of San Jose Permitting
Navigating San Jose’s ADU permitting process requires familiarity with local zoning codes, setback requirements, and the city’s plan review procedures. We’ve built that expertise through years of working with the San Jose Development Services Permit Center, so your project moves through approvals efficiently.
Budget-Conscious Construction
We believe quality ADU construction shouldn’t break the bank. Our team focuses on cost-efficient material sourcing, smart design alternatives, and transparent pricing so you know exactly where every dollar goes — no hidden fees or surprise change orders.
Licensed, Bonded & Insured
Animas Valley Construction holds an active California Contractor’s License (#1027294) with full bonding and liability insurance. That means your investment is protected and your project meets all state and local building codes.
Serving San Jose Neighborhoods and Nearby Cities
Our team builds ADUs throughout San Jose’s diverse neighborhoods, including Willow Glen, Almaden Valley, Rose Garden, Cambrian Park, Evergreen, Berryessa, Silver Creek, and the Communications Hill area. We’re also familiar with the unique lot sizes and zoning considerations in neighborhoods like Naglee Park, Japantown, and the Blossom Valley corridor near our home office.
Beyond San Jose, we proudly serve homeowners in nearby South Bay and Peninsula communities, including Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Mountain View, Palo Alto, Morgan Hill, and Milpitas. Wherever you’re located in the greater service area, our team brings the same commitment to quality craftsmanship and personalized service.
Construction Resources for San Jose
Top Construction Company in San Jose
ADU Permitting in San Jose: Your Complete Guide (2026)
Navigating Setback Requirements for San Jose Home Additions
The Complete Guide to Renovations in San Jose
Frequently Asked Questions About ADU Construction in San Jose
How much does it cost to build an ADU in San Jose?
ADU construction costs in San Jose typically range from $150,000 to $350,000 or more, depending on the unit’s size, design complexity, and finish level. Garage conversions tend to fall on the lower end since the existing structure reduces foundation and framing costs. We provide detailed, transparent estimates during your free consultation so there are no financial surprises.
How long does it take to build an ADU in San Jose?
Most ADU projects take between 8 and 14 months from initial design through completed construction, with the permitting phase often accounting for 2–4 months of that timeline. The City of San José is required to complete ADU plan reviews within 60 days under current California law. Construction timelines vary based on unit size, site conditions, and whether the project involves new construction or a conversion.
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in San Jose?
Yes, all ADU construction in San Jose requires a building permit issued through the City of San José’s Development Services Permit Center. The permitting process includes plan review for compliance with zoning and building codes. Our team handles the entire permit application and approval process on your behalf.
Can I rent out my ADU in San Jose?
Absolutely. Under current California law, there is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs, meaning you can rent out both your primary residence and your ADU simultaneously. AB 976 permanently eliminated the owner-occupancy mandate for ADUs permitted after January 1, 2025, giving homeowners full rental flexibility.
What is the maximum size for an ADU in San Jose?
Detached ADUs in San Jose can be up to 1,200 square feet, while attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s living area or 1,200 square feet, whichever is less. Junior ADUs (JADUs) are capped at 500 square feet and must be built within the existing footprint of the primary home.
Do I need to provide parking for my ADU?
In most cases, no. San Jose does not require additional parking for ADUs located within half a mile of public transit, and California law prohibits cities from requiring replacement parking when a garage is converted to an ADU. Given San Jose’s extensive VTA bus and light rail network, many properties qualify for the parking exemption.
Can I build an ADU and a JADU on the same property?
Yes. California law allows single-family property owners to build one ADU and one JADU on the same lot. This means you could potentially have two additional income-generating units on your property — a detached ADU in the backyard and a JADU converted from an existing bedroom or attached space within your home.