Orlando ADU Builder — Licensed Florida GC

ADU construction in Orlando typically ranges from $120 to $400 per square foot depending on size, finish level, and site conditions. A 400 sq ft detached ADU runs $60,000–$100,000; a 600 sq ft unit with a full kitchen and bath typically lands between $90,000–$160,000. Garage conversions are the most affordable entry point, often $40,000–$80,000. Orlando's $10,000 impact fee rebate program and SB 48 by-right approval can meaningfully reduce your all-in cost.

Yes. All ADUs in Orlando require a building permit through Orange County or the City of Orlando, depending on your parcel. The permit covers structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Under Florida SB 48 (effective July 2023), single-family homeowners can now get by-right administrative approval for attached and detached ADUs up to 1,000 sq ft — eliminating most discretionary review delays. D&Co handles the full permit submittal, plan review responses, and inspections.

Under SB 48 by-right approval, Orlando and Orange County must process complete ADU applications within 30 days. Before SB 48, permitting averaged 60–120 days. Plan review corrections can add 2–4 weeks if documents are incomplete — which is why having a licensed GC prepare the permit package matters. From permit approval to final inspection, construction typically takes 60–90 days for a standard detached ADU.

Florida SB 48 allows ADUs up to 1,000 sq ft or 150% of the primary dwelling's square footage, whichever is less. The City of Orlando and Orange County both follow this state standard. Winter Park has its own zoning code and in some districts limits ADUs to 800 sq ft or 30% of the primary dwelling — we verify your specific parcel before any design work begins.

Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are regulated at the city and county level in Florida. Orlando and Orange County require a short-term rental license and may impose zoning restrictions depending on your neighborhood. The Orlando ADU incentive program specifically requires a minimum 12-month lease to qualifying workforce tenants in exchange for the $10,000 rebate and impact fee waiver — so if your goal is Airbnb income, you'd forgo that incentive. We walk through both scenarios during your feasibility review.

Not if it's structured correctly. A detached ADU on the same parcel as your primary residence does not automatically strip your homestead exemption. However, if the ADU is rented, you may need to apportion the exemption. Florida Statute §193.703 also provides a Granny Flat property tax reduction for homeowners who rent an ADU to a parent or grandparent at below-market rent. Full breakdown in our Homestead Exemption & ADU Tax guide.

A detached ADU is a fully separate structure on your lot — its own foundation, walls, roof, and utilities. A detached unit typically commands higher rental income and appraised value. An attached ADU shares at least one wall with the primary home — a converted garage or a rear addition. Attached units cost less to build but must meet stricter fire separation requirements under FBC R302. Both are eligible under Florida SB 48 by-right approval.

Yes. Winter Park is one of our primary service areas. Winter Park operates under its own zoning code separate from Orange County — setbacks, lot coverage, and ADU size limits differ by zoning district (R-1A through R-3). We've navigated Winter Park's permitting office directly and know what their plan reviewers flag. Full zoning detail in our Winter Park ADU Zoning guide.

The most common financing paths for Orlando ADU projects are: (1) HELOC or cash-out refinance using existing home equity, (2) FHA 203k renovation loan if buying a property that needs the ADU built, (3) construction-to-perm loans from local credit unions, and (4) the City of Orlando's $10,000 forgivable loan through the workforce housing incentive program. We discuss your situation during the free feasibility review and connect you with ADU-friendly lenders we've worked with in Orange County.

Florida SB 48, signed into law in 2023, requires all Florida municipalities to allow accessory dwelling units by right on any single-family residentially zoned parcel. Your city or county cannot deny an ADU application that meets state standards — no discretionary review, no neighborhood opposition. It also caps permitting timelines at 30 days and limits impact fees to a proportional share. It's the single biggest policy shift for ADU construction in Florida history. Full breakdown in our SB 48 By-Right ADU guide.

The City of Orlando offers up to $10,000 in rebates covering impact fees and permit fees for homeowners who build an ADU and commit to renting it as workforce housing for a minimum of 10 years to tenants earning 80% or less of Area Median Income. The program runs until funding is exhausted — applications are processed first-come, first-served. Full qualification criteria and application process in our Impact Fees & Rebates guide.