ADU Home Remodeling in Salt Lake City: Costs, Design Ideas, and Planning Tips
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are an option for Salt Lake City homeowners who want to make better use of their existing property. Whether you are renovating a basement apartment, converting a garage into a living space, updating a backyard cottage, or improving an existing ADU, thoughtful planning can help you create a comfortable and functional space.
ADU home remodeling involves more than updating finishes. It may require improvements to the layout, plumbing, electrical systems, insulation, heating and cooling, and other features that affect safety, comfort, and long-term usability.
For homeowners considering an ADU remodel in Salt Lake City, Utah, understanding the design possibilities, project costs, permitting requirements, and contractor selection process is an important first step.
In this guide, we explain what to consider when remodeling an accessory dwelling unit and how to plan a project that fits your property, needs, and budget.
What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary residential living space located on the same property as a primary home. Depending on local regulations and property conditions, an ADU may be attached to the main house, located within an existing structure, or built as a separate dwelling.
Common types of ADUs include:
Basement apartments: Convert or renovate a basement into a separate living space.
Garage conversions: Transform an existing garage into a functional residential unit.
Attached ADUs: Add a separate living area connected to the primary residence.
Detached backyard cottages: Create an independent living space separate from the main home.
Existing ADU renovations: Upgrade an older unit to improve its layout, comfort, and functionality.
The right option depends on your property's existing layout, available space, intended use, and applicable local requirements.
1. Why Consider ADU Remodeling in Salt Lake City?
An ADU remodel can help homeowners adapt their property to changing household needs without necessarily undertaking a complete home renovation.
Create additional living space
An ADU can provide a more independent living arrangement for family members, adult children, or other eligible occupants. A well-planned layout can make a smaller unit feel more comfortable and practical.
Improve an existing property
Older accessory dwelling units may need updated kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, lighting, insulation, or mechanical systems. Remodeling can address these issues while making the space more functional.
Make better use of an existing structure
A basement, garage, or separate structure may offer opportunities to create a more useful living area. Before beginning, confirm that the proposed conversion is allowed and that the structure can meet applicable residential requirements.
Adapt your home to future needs
Homeowners may want flexible living arrangements as their households change. An ADU can provide an additional space that serves different needs over time, subject to applicable occupancy and use regulations.
Potential rental income may also be a consideration, but it is not guaranteed. Rental eligibility, expenses, financing, and local requirements should be evaluated before making financial projections.
2. How Much Does ADU Remodeling Cost in Salt Lake City?
The cost of ADU remodeling in Salt Lake City depends on the project's size, current condition, design, materials, labor, and required upgrades.
A cosmetic renovation of an existing unit will generally involve different work from converting a garage or extensively renovating a basement. Projects that require structural modifications, new plumbing, electrical upgrades, or significant heating and cooling work may be more complex.
Factors that affect ADU remodeling costs
Project size and layout
A compact studio renovation may require less material and labor than a larger unit with a separate bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Changes to the existing floor plan can also affect costs.
Existing structural condition
Water damage, foundation concerns, inadequate framing, or other hidden problems may need to be addressed before interior finishes are installed.
Cabinets, countertops, plumbing fixtures, appliances, ventilation, and tile selections can influence the overall budget.
Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
An ADU must have appropriate systems for its intended residential use. Existing systems may need improvements or replacement, depending on their condition and applicable code requirements.
Permits and inspections
Depending on the scope of work, the project may require building permits, plan reviews, inspections, or other approvals. Confirm the requirements with the relevant local authority before starting construction.
Materials and finishes
Standard finishes, custom cabinetry, premium countertops, and specialty fixtures offer different cost and maintenance considerations.
How to plan your ADU remodeling budget
Before requesting contractor estimates, establish a clear project scope.
Identify the improvements you need.
Decide which features are essential and which are optional.
Have the existing structure and major systems evaluated where necessary.
Request detailed estimates that explain the work, materials, allowances, and exclusions.
Set aside a contingency for unexpected conditions.
Confirm the expected payment schedule and how changes will be handled.
There is no single remodeling price that applies to every ADU in Salt Lake City. Request a project-specific estimate based on the property's actual condition and the proposed improvements.
3. ADU Design Ideas for Salt Lake City Homes
Good ADU design makes efficient use of available space while supporting everyday comfort and functionality.
Open-concept living areas
Combining the kitchen, dining, and living areas can help a smaller unit feel more spacious. Thoughtful furniture placement and clear walkways can improve how the space functions.
Space-saving kitchen designs
Compact cabinetry, efficient appliance layouts, and well-planned storage can make a small ADU kitchen more practical. Choose durable materials that fit the expected use of the unit.
Functional bathroom layouts
A well-designed bathroom should provide convenient access to fixtures, sufficient storage, appropriate ventilation, and suitable waterproofing.
Built-in storage
Closets, shelving, built-in cabinets, and storage beneath selected furniture can help reduce clutter without using unnecessary floor space.
Natural light and lighting design
Windows, suitable glazing, and layered lighting can make an ADU feel brighter and more inviting. Window changes must be evaluated for structural, energy, privacy, and code considerations.
Durable, low-maintenance finishes
Flooring, countertops, fixtures, and wall finishes should suit the property's needs and the level of use the unit will receive. Consider durability and maintenance alongside appearance.
Insulation and year-round comfort
Salt Lake City's seasonal temperature changes make insulation, air sealing, and appropriate heating and cooling important considerations. Existing conditions and applicable energy requirements should be assessed during planning.
4. Should You Remodel a Basement, Convert a Garage, or Renovate a Backyard ADU?
The best approach depends on what already exists on your property.
Basement ADU remodeling
A basement conversion or renovation may make use of existing interior space. Important considerations include ceiling height, moisture management, emergency escape requirements where applicable, natural light, ventilation, and safe access.
Before starting, determine whether the basement can legally and practically accommodate the intended residential use.
Garage conversion
Converting a garage into an ADU may require changes to the floor, walls, insulation, windows, doors, electrical systems, and heating or cooling.
The project may also affect parking requirements and how the remaining property is used. Verify the relevant local rules before proceeding.
Backyard cottage renovation
An existing detached ADU may offer opportunities to update the interior, improve energy efficiency, modernize the kitchen and bathroom, or improve the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Structural condition, utility connections, site access, drainage, and property setbacks should be considered when planning significant improvements.
Attached ADU improvements
An attached unit may require careful planning to address privacy, sound separation, entrances, utility systems, and the relationship between the ADU and the main home.
In every case, an early assessment can help identify constraints before design and construction costs increase.
5. ADU Permits and Local Requirements in Salt Lake City
Before remodeling an accessory dwelling unit, confirm which rules apply to your property and the work you intend to perform.
Requirements can vary depending on the property's location, zoning, existing approvals, building configuration, and project scope. A property within Salt Lake City may be subject to different requirements from a property in another municipality within Salt Lake County.
Items to investigate may include:
Whether an ADU is permitted on the property.
Whether an existing unit is legally established for residential use.
Zoning restrictions, setbacks, and applicable size or height limits.
Building permits and required inspections.
Structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and energy requirements.
Fire safety, emergency egress, and other applicable life-safety provisions.
Utility capacity and connection requirements.
Parking, access, and occupancy-related rules where applicable.
Do not assume that an existing garage, basement, or backyard structure can automatically be used as a legal dwelling.
Start by contacting the appropriate local planning and building department. Confirm the requirements before purchasing materials or beginning construction.
6. How to Choose an ADU Remodeling Contractor in Utah
Choosing a qualified contractor is an important part of a successful ADU remodeling project. The right professional should understand the proposed work, communicate clearly, and help coordinate the necessary construction activities.
Verify licensing and credentials
Check the contractor's applicable Utah license and registration status through the relevant state authority. Confirm that the contractor is authorized to perform the work being proposed.
Review relevant experience
Ask about experience with ADU renovations, basement apartments, garage conversions, home additions, or similar residential projects. Request examples of comparable completed work.
Request a detailed written estimate
The estimate should explain the project's scope, materials, allowances, exclusions, payment schedule, and anticipated timeline.
Understand permit responsibilities
Ask who will coordinate permits, plan submissions, inspections, and work performed by subcontractors. Confirm that the proposed approach complies with applicable requirements.
Discuss communication and project management
Establish how progress updates, scheduling changes, unexpected conditions, and decisions will be communicated.
Review the contract carefully
Before signing, understand the scope of work, payment terms, change-order process, warranties, and procedures for addressing disputes or delays.
Taking time to evaluate contractors can help you compare proposals more effectively and make an informed decision.
7. ADU Remodeling vs. Home Additions: Which Is Right for Your Property?
An ADU remodel and a home addition can both create more usable space, but they serve different purposes.
An ADU is generally designed as a secondary dwelling unit, while a home addition expands the primary residence. The right option depends on whether you need an independent living space or simply more room within your existing home.
Consider an ADU when you want to explore a separate living arrangement, subject to local approval.
Consider a home addition when you need more space for a larger kitchen, an additional bedroom, an expanded living room, or another area connected to your primary home.
If your project involves expanding the main house rather than creating a separate dwelling, explore the relevant home addition and home remodeling options before deciding on a design.
8. How Long Does an ADU Remodeling Project Take?
The timeline depends on the size and complexity of the project, the condition of the existing structure, design decisions, material availability, and the approvals required.
A straightforward interior update may involve fewer steps than a garage conversion or major renovation requiring structural and mechanical work.
Common project stages include:
Initial property assessment and project planning.
Design development and preparation of construction documents, where required.
Permit applications and approvals, where applicable.
Demolition and preparation of the work area.
Structural, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical work as needed.
Insulation, drywall, interior finishes, and fixture installation.
Required inspections and completion of outstanding work.
Ask your contractor for a project-specific schedule that identifies major milestones and dependencies. Permit reviews, inspections, weather, and unforeseen conditions can affect the final timeline.
9. Common ADU Remodeling Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding preventable problems can make the planning and construction process easier.
Starting without checking local requirements: Verify zoning, legal-use status, and permit needs before committing to a design.
Underestimating hidden repairs: Existing moisture damage, structural issues, or outdated systems may affect the budget.
Focusing only on appearance: A beautiful interior still needs appropriate ventilation, insulation, lighting, plumbing, and other functional features.
Ignoring storage and circulation: Plan furniture placement, door clearances, storage, and walkways early in the design process.
Choosing a contractor based only on price: Compare scope, qualifications, materials, exclusions, and communication rather than looking at the total alone.
Making major changes during construction: Finalize important design decisions early when possible and use a documented change-order process for necessary revisions.
Assuming rental use is automatically allowed: Confirm local requirements and evaluate the financial implications before relying on rental income.
10. Start Planning Your ADU Remodeling Project in Salt Lake City
A well-planned ADU remodel can help you make better use of your existing property and create a more functional living environment. The process starts with understanding your goals, evaluating the current structure, setting a realistic budget, and confirming applicable local requirements.
Whether you are considering a basement apartment renovation, a garage conversion, an existing backyard cottage upgrade, or improvements to an attached ADU, a clear project plan can help you evaluate your options.
Oakley Homes & Construction can be positioned as a resource for homeowners exploring residential construction and remodeling solutions. Contact the team to discuss your project requirements, determine the appropriate scope of work, and explore the next steps for your property.
Planning an ADU remodel in Salt Lake City? Reach out to Oakley Homes to discuss your remodeling goals and learn what may be involved in your project.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADU Remodeling in Salt Lake City
What does ADU remodeling include?
ADU remodeling can include interior updates, kitchen and bathroom renovations, layout changes, storage improvements, insulation upgrades, and repairs to existing building systems. The scope depends on the unit's condition and the homeowner's goals.
How much does it cost to remodel an ADU in Salt Lake City?
Costs vary depending on the unit's size, existing condition, materials, labor, system upgrades, and permit requirements. A property assessment and detailed contractor estimate are the best ways to establish a realistic project budget.
Do I need a permit to remodel an ADU in Salt Lake City?
Some projects require permits or inspections, particularly when they involve structural changes, electrical or plumbing work, changes in residential use, or other regulated activities. Requirements depend on the property and project scope, so check with the appropriate local building department.
Can I convert my garage into an ADU?
A garage conversion may be possible, but it depends on zoning, property conditions, building requirements, and the necessary approvals. Confirm the property's eligibility before beginning design or construction.
What is the difference between an ADU and a home addition?
An ADU is generally a separate secondary dwelling unit on the same property as a primary residence. A home addition expands the main residence and does not necessarily create a separate dwelling.
How do I choose an ADU remodeling contractor in Utah?
Check applicable licensing, relevant project experience, written estimates, references, insurance, contract terms, and the contractor's approach to permits and project communication.
Can an ADU be used as a rental property?
Potential rental use depends on local regulations, the unit's legal status, and other applicable requirements. Confirm eligibility before including rental income in your financial plans.
Is remodeling an existing ADU better than building a new one?
It depends on the existing structure, renovation needs, site conditions, local requirements, and overall budget. Comparing the expected costs and feasibility of both options can help you make an informed decision.
About Oakley Homes & Construction
Oakley Homes helps homeowners explore residential construction and remodeling solutions tailored to their property and project goals. Contact the team to discuss your plans and determine the next steps for your home improvement project.
