Explore ADU Options for Your Florida Property
The right ADU depends on your property, goals, local rules, budget and timeline.
Detached Backyard ADU
Best For
Rental income, family housing, guest space.
Typical Use
Standalone secondary home in the backyard with its own kitchen, bathroom, and living area.
Key Considerations
- Lot size and available backyard space
- Local setbacks from property lines
- Access for construction
- Utility connections (water, sewer, electric)
- Privacy from main house
- Construction budget (typically highest cost option)
Garage Conversion
Best For
Homeowners with existing garage space who want to create usable living area.
Typical Use
Studio or 1-bedroom apartment built within the footprint of an existing attached or detached garage.
Key Considerations
- Structural integrity of existing garage
- Local parking replacement rules
- Routing utilities to the garage
- Ceiling height requirements
- Local building code for habitability
- Insulation and climate control upgrades
Attached ADU
Best For
Family housing, expanded living space or flexible long-term use.
Typical Use
An addition built onto the side or rear of the primary home, sharing at least one wall.
Key Considerations
- Connection points to the existing home
- Privacy and soundproofing
- Separate entrances
- Extending existing utilities
- Local permitting and zoning setbacks
- Matching the existing architectural style
Guest House
Best For
Visitors, family members or flexible living space.
Typical Use
A comfortable secondary structure intended primarily for short-term stays or family.
Key Considerations
- Local rules on 'kitchens' vs 'wet bars'
- Short-term rental restrictions (Airbnb rules)
- Size limitations per local code
- Property line setbacks
In-Law Suite
Best For
Parents, adult children or multigenerational living.
Typical Use
An accessible, private living area integrated into or attached to the main home.
Key Considerations
- Accessibility features (no-step entries, grab bars)
- Privacy for both generations
- Kitchen and bathroom regulations
- Local rules for multigenerational additions
Home Office / Studio
Best For
Remote work, creative studio, gym or flex space.
Typical Use
A conditioned space in the backyard designed for work or hobbies, often without a full kitchen.
Key Considerations
- Whether it qualifies as 'habitable space'
- Utility needs (electric, internet, HVAC)
- Bathroom inclusion and plumbing permits
- Insulation and climate control
Ready to Find the Right Option?
Let's evaluate your property and see which ADU type fits best.
Request a Property Review