ADU Builder in Reno & Northern Nevada
Need room for family, aging parents, a home office or rental income? DLR Construction designs and builds ADUs, garage conversions and in-law units across Reno, Sparks and Washoe County, from permits and foundation to the final walkthrough. Licensed since 1989 (NV 0070238, CA 573182).
What we build
We build four kinds of ADUs, and we’ll help you pick the one that fits your lot, budget and how you plan to use it.
How it works
One contractor handles your ADU from the first visit to the final inspection.
- Free site visit: we look at your property, talk through your goals and take measurements and photos (up to 30 minutes, Monday-Friday).
- Plan and price: you get a clear scope and one total price, with what’s included and what isn’t.
- Plans and permits: we coordinate the drawings and submit for permits with the City of Reno, City of Sparks or Washoe County.
- Build: foundation, framing, utilities, insulation, drywall, finishes. You get one point of contact the whole way.
- Final inspection and walkthrough: we finish the punch list with you and hand over a space ready to live in.
Permits in Reno, Sparks and Washoe County
Permits are the part homeowners worry about most, and we handle them for you. Each jurisdiction has its own rules on ADU size, setbacks, parking and utility connections, so we check what applies to your address before you commit. During your site visit we’ll tell you what’s likely allowed on your lot and roughly how long permitting takes.
What an ADU costs
Every ADU is priced on its own, but these are the things that move the number most:
- Type: a garage conversion usually costs less than a new detached unit, because the foundation, walls and roof are already there.
- Size and layout: square footage, and whether it has a full kitchen and bathroom.
- Utilities: how far water, sewer, gas and electrical have to run from the main house.
- Site work: slope, access for equipment, and foundation needs.
- Finishes: flooring, cabinets, counters and fixtures.
Garage conversions and ADUs typically start around $70,000 for construction. Architect and design fees, engineering, special inspections and city permit fees are separate, set by those offices, and passed through at cost. Your final price depends on size, how far plumbing and sewer lines run, materials and roofing type. After your free site visit you get one clear total price, not a pile of line items.
Featured ADU projects
Real DLR projects, shown by neighborhood.
Garage Conversion & ADU, Virginia Highlands
The existing garage became living space, and a new garage addition was built at the front, creating one connected expansion. See the full project →
Garage Conversion + New Detached Garage, Mayberry Area
The homeowner’s attached garage was converted into finished living quarters, used as a media room, and DLR’s crew built a brand-new detached garage beside the house to replace the parking.
The conversion:
The new detached garage:
What our clients say
Real reviews from DLR customers on Google.
Frequently asked questions
Can I build an ADU on my property?
It depends on your lot, zoning and whether you’re in Reno, Sparks or the county. We’ll check during the free site visit.
Can I rent out my ADU?
Many owners do. Rental rules vary by jurisdiction and neighborhood, so we’ll point you to what applies to your address.
How long does an ADU take?
A garage conversion is usually the fastest. A new detached unit takes longer because of the foundation and utilities. Permitting time varies by jurisdiction, and we’ll give you a realistic schedule with your price.
Do you handle the permits?
Yes. We coordinate the plans, submit the permits and schedule the inspections.
Can you work in winter?
Yes. Garage conversions and interior ADU work continue through the winter months.
Ready to add space to your home?
Book a free on-site visit, Monday-Friday, or call (775) 225-7006. Licensed since 1989, NV 0070238 · CA 573182.