ADU and guest house builders in Tampa
An accessory dwelling unit adds a second, self-contained home on your lot: for a parent, an adult child, a tenant or guests. Whether it's allowed, and how big it can be, depends on where the lot sits. The builder sorts that out before the drawings.
ADUs we build
- A detached backyard cottage with kitchen and bath
- An apartment above a new or existing garage
- An attached in-law suite with a separate entrance
- Converting a detached garage or workshop to living space
- A unit sized to rent
- A studio or office that may become a dwelling later
What the project covers
Zoning check
Whether your parcel allows an ADU, the size limit, parking and owner-occupancy rules, and setbacks.
Design
A compact plan that fits the lot and reads as part of the property.
Utilities
Extending water, sewer and electrical, or a separate service and meter when that's the goal.
Construction
Foundation, structure, roof and finishes to the same Florida Building Code as the main house.
Garage conversions
Insulation, conditioned space, egress, flood vents or elevation where required, and a new place to park.
How an ADU project goes
- Zoning review. The builder confirms what the city or county allows on your parcel before anyone draws anything.
- Design and proposal. Plans and a written scope, schedule and price.
- Permit and construction. Permitted as a new dwelling, which means full inspections.
- Final and occupancy. Certificate of occupancy, separate address if applicable, and a walk-through.
What affects the price
- Detached new construction versus converting an existing garage.
- Size and whether it includes a full kitchen.
- Utility runs and whether a separate service is wanted.
- Flood zone requirements for the new structure.
- Finish level.
You get a written proposal with the scope, schedule and price before any work starts.
ADU rules in Tampa Bay
The City of Tampa allows accessory dwelling units in many residential districts, with size, height and setback limits that vary by zoning, and unincorporated Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas each have their own rules. Some areas restrict renting the unit separately or require the owner to live on site. Because the rules differ block to block, the zoning check is the first step, and the builder does it before any design work.
Common questions
Can I build an ADU on my lot?
It depends on your zoning district and jurisdiction. The builder checks your parcel and tells you what's allowed and how large it can be.
Can I rent it out?
Often yes, sometimes with conditions. Short-term rental rules are separate and stricter in many areas.
How big can an ADU be?
Most Tampa Bay jurisdictions cap it at a share of the main house or a fixed square footage. Your zoning check gives the number.
Does it need its own electric meter?
Not necessarily. A separate service costs more but makes renting cleaner. Either way works.
Related services
Areas we serve
ADUs and guest houses across Tampa and these nearby communities: