An ADU builder in Salt Lake City is a licensed contractor who designs and constructs accessory dwelling units — detached backyard units, garage conversions, attached additions, and junior ADUs (JADUs). Because an ADU is a complete second dwelling, the builder coordinates foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work and pulls it through Salt Lake City's permit process and utility connections. Not every general contractor has built one, so the right builder is one with ADU-specific experience in Utah.
What ADU Builders Cost in Salt Lake City
Based on our Salt Lake City cost data, expect the following ranges from local ADU builders. Quotes for the same scope typically vary 20-40% between contractors, so getting at least three bids is the single best way to control cost.
| New Detached ADU (all-in) | $180,000-$350,000 |
| Cost per Sq Ft | $300-$350 |
| Garage Conversion | $120,000-$200,000 |
| Prefab / Modular ADU (installed) | $100,000-$180,000 |
| City Permit & Plan Review | $2,000-$4,000 estimated |
| Impact Fees | Utility connection fees apply |
For a full line-item breakdown, see our Salt Lake City ADU cost guide. To confirm what you're allowed to build before you hire, review the Salt Lake City ADU rules (max detached size: Up to 1,000 sq ft, or the size of the main building, whichever is less (internal ADUs have no size cap); owner-occupancy: Required - owner must reside on property (either main or ADU)).
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How to Vet an ADU Builder in Salt Lake City
- License: Confirm a current contractor's license in Utah and that it's in good standing. Ask for the license number and verify it with the state board.
- ADU-specific experience: Ask how many ADUs they've completed in or near Salt Lake City and request addresses or photos. ADU permitting and setbacks differ from a kitchen remodel.
- Portfolio & references: Get references from recent ADU clients and, if possible, visit a finished unit.
- Insurance: Verify general liability and workers' compensation coverage. Ask for a certificate of insurance.
- Written, detailed bid: Insist on an itemized, fixed-price or clearly-scoped bid — not a verbal estimate. It should state whether permits ($2,000-$4,000 estimated), plan check (Included in 2-8 week timeline), and impact fees (Utility connection fees apply) are included.
- Permit handling: Confirm they manage Salt Lake City's permit process ("Building permit required. Plans must comply with all building, fire, and utility codes. Matter-of-right approval.", typically 2-8 weeks for approval; 7-9 weeks for construction after permit issued; 3+ months total typical) and who is responsible if revisions are required.
- Payment schedule: Avoid large upfront payments. A reasonable schedule ties payments to completed milestones.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
- How many ADUs have you built in Salt Lake City in the last two years?
- Is your bid fixed-price, and what would trigger a change order?
- Are permits, plan check, and utility connection fees included?
- What's a realistic timeline, including permit review (2-8 weeks for approval; 7-9 weeks for construction after permit issued; 3+ months total typical) and construction?
- Who is my point of contact and how are delays communicated?
- What warranty do you provide on workmanship?
- Can you share three recent Utah ADU client references?
Finance Your ADU Project
Most ADU projects are funded through HELOCs, construction loans, or cash-out refinancing. Compare rates from top lenders.
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