Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Construction in Summerville, South Carolina
OR GIVE US A CALL
Generate Rental Income or Welcome Guests with a Smart ADU Solution
For over 50
years, homeowners in Summerville, South Carolina, and the surrounding Lowcountry region have turned to Holy City Building and Remodeling
for reliable, high-quality construction services. One of the most in-demand services today is the design and construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These versatile, self-contained living spaces allow property owners to increase livable square footage, generate rental income, and accommodate multi-generational living without the expense or complexity of moving.
In Dorchester and Berkeley counties, zoning regulations have evolved to support this growing trend. ADUs, also known as in-law suites, garage apartments, or backyard cottages, provide a practical solution for expanding a home’s functionality and value. Whether attached to the main house or built as a detached structure, an ADU can serve a wide range of purposes—from hosting guests to housing family members or caregivers, or even serving as a private home office.
At Holy City Building and Remodeling, our approach to ADU construction emphasizes custom design, efficiency, and compliance with local building codes. We understand the unique architectural styles and neighborhood guidelines across Summerville, South Carolina, and its neighboring communities, allowing us to create structures that seamlessly blend with your property while meeting your long-term needs.
Each project begins with a clear consultation to understand the homeowner’s vision, budget, and property layout. Our goal is to deliver a durable, attractive structure that enhances the lifestyle of those living in South Carolina’s historic and fast-growing Lowcountry areas.
Benefits of Building an ADU
Increased Property Value
An ADU adds usable living space, which increases your property's overall market value. Potential buyers appreciate flexible housing solutions that support evolving needs. Whether used for guests, rentals, or extended family, an ADU enhances functionality, making your home more appealing and competitive in today’s real estate market while offering long-term equity benefits.
Rental Income Opportunities
Building an ADU opens the door to additional income through short-term or long-term rentals. Whether used as a full-time tenant space or occasional guest accommodation, these units generate passive income. They offer homeowners a smart investment opportunity while also helping meet local housing demand with attractive, well-designed living options.
Flexible Living Solutions
ADUs offer ideal living arrangements for extended family members, aging parents, or young adults. They provide autonomy without physical distance, allowing for independent living alongside close support. These versatile units help accommodate multigenerational households with privacy, making it easier to adapt to life’s changes without sacrificing personal space or connection.
Smart Use of Existing Land
Accessory Dwelling Units maximize existing land by transforming underused backyard areas, garages, or side yards into fully functional spaces. Without altering the primary structure, ADUs make efficient use of property footprint, offering an affordable solution for expansion without the need to purchase additional land or move to a larger home.
Adaptability Over Time
ADUs are flexible and can evolve with your household's needs. What starts as a guest suite or office can become a rental, caregiver quarters, or art studio. This long-term adaptability makes ADUs a valuable, multipurpose investment that supports lifestyle changes and adds year-round functionality to your property.
Sustainable Living
Compact and resource-efficient, ADUs are easier to heat, cool, and maintain. They often include eco-conscious features like energy-efficient appliances, windows, and insulation. These sustainable elements reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and support environmentally responsible development while maintaining the comfort and privacy of a traditional home.
ADU Services Offered
Detached ADU Construction
We build standalone accessory units that sit separately from the primary home, offering full privacy and flexibility. These detached ADUs can include kitchens, bathrooms, and private entrances. They’re ideal for rentals, guest accommodations, or extended family use, and can be tailored to suit your design preferences and functional goals.
Garage Conversions
Our team transforms existing garages into fully livable accessory units. These conversions include insulation, electrical upgrades, plumbing, flooring, and custom layouts. Whether you're adding a rental suite, home office, or guest space, garage conversions maximize your property’s potential without altering the existing footprint or undergoing major structural changes.
Above-Garage Apartments
We design and build stylish living units above detached garages. These elevated ADUs provide separate access and make efficient use of vertical space. They’re ideal for homeowners who want to maintain yard space while creating a fully functional guest suite, rental unit, or personal studio with enhanced views and privacy.
Attached ADU Additions
Attached ADUs are built as extensions of the primary home, offering connected yet independent living. These additions often include private entrances and dedicated utilities. They’re ideal for in-home caregiving, multigenerational living, or accommodating changing family dynamics while maintaining privacy and accessibility within a shared property.
ADU Remodeling & Upgrades
We provide renovation services for existing ADUs, updating finishes, reconfiguring layouts, and improving energy efficiency. Whether your unit needs modern amenities or better functionality, we upgrade older ADUs to meet current design and safety standards, extending their usability and value while aligning them with your evolving needs.
Custom Design and Permit Services
Our team oversees the entire design and permitting process for your ADU project. We handle zoning research, architectural plans, materials selection, and regulatory compliance. With expertise in local building codes and a streamlined approach, we ensure a smooth, hassle-free construction process from initial concept through final approval.
Increase Property Value with a Fully Livable Backyard Unit
As communities across the Lowcountry continue to grow, homeowners in Summerville are exploring smarter ways to use space, support family, and build long-term value. Accessory Dwelling Units offer a flexible solution that aligns with South Carolina’s evolving housing needs while retaining the charm and character of established neighborhoods.
By partnering with Holy City Building and Remodeling, residents gain access to over five decades of hands-on experience in quality residential construction.
Our ADU projects reflect thoughtful design, code compliance, and a deep understanding of local zoning ordinances across Summerville, South Carolina. Whether constructing a detached guest suite or converting a garage into a modern apartment, our team ensures that every square foot is maximized for usability, comfort, and return on investment.
We tailor each ADU to fit the property’s layout, the homeowner’s goals, and the community’s aesthetic. Our comprehensive services—from consultation and permits to final construction—eliminate guesswork and delays, resulting in a smooth and rewarding process. For families seeking multigenerational living, homeowners looking for rental income, or individuals needing private work-from-home solutions, ADUs provide unmatched value.
In Summerville, where history meets growth, ADUs represent the future of functional, affordable, and adaptable living. Holy City Building and Remodeling
is proud to contribute to that future by building with integrity, precision, and a deep respect for the people and properties we serve. When you’re ready to expand your home’s possibilities, trust a local expert to deliver results that last.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What size can an ADU be in Summerville?
ADU sizes typically range from 400 to 1,200 square feet, depending on local zoning laws. Holy City Building and Remodeling ensures compliance with specific regulations in Dorchester County for each individual property.
Does building an ADU require a separate address?
In most cases, ADUs share the same address as the main home but may require a separate utility connection. This depends on whether the unit will be used as a rental or personal space.
Can an ADU have its own kitchen and bathroom?
Yes, ADUs are designed to function as complete, self-contained living units with kitchens, bathrooms, sleeping areas, and separate entrances to provide comfort and independence.
Is it possible to rent out my ADU in Summerville?
Yes, renting is generally permitted for ADUs, though some HOA or municipal restrictions may apply. We assist clients in navigating these rules to ensure compliant, profitable use.
How long does it take to build an ADU?
Construction timelines vary based on size, complexity, and permitting. On average, ADUs in Summerville take between three to six months from design to completion.
Can I build an ADU on a small lot?
Small lots can still accommodate ADUs with creative planning. We design compact units that maximize vertical space or make use of existing structures like garages.
Will an ADU affect my property taxes?
Adding an ADU typically increases assessed property value, which may affect taxes. However, the potential for rental income and increased resale value can offset these costs.
Do I need a separate contractor for permits and inspections?
No. Our team handles all permitting, code compliance, and inspections, streamlining the entire ADU process for homeowners throughout the Summerville area.
BENEFITS 1
Insert content
BENEFITS 2
Insert content
BENEFITS 3
Insert content