The independent research tool for Denver metro homeowners exploring ADUs. Compare costs, understand Colorado’s ADU law, check your HOA eligibility, and find vetted builders — before committing to anything.
Get My Free ADU EstimateIndependent cost ranges and trade-offs — so you know what questions to ask before talking to a contractor.
Think of this like NerdWallet for ADUs — independent information that helps you understand your options before you commit to anything.
Understand what your lot allows, what HOA rules apply, and what permit process to expect — before spending money on plans.
See cost ranges for your ADU type, financing options, and projected rental income — so you go into builder conversations with real numbers.
When you’re ready to move forward, we refer you to vetted Colorado ADU builders who specialize in your project type and jurisdiction.
City-by-city ADU rules, permit requirements, and cost ranges. Each jurisdiction is different — find yours.
Basement conversions run $35K–$120K. Garage conversions $45K–$145K. Detached backyard cottages $165K–$400K. Costs vary significantly by city, lot conditions, and finishes. Use our quiz to get a range specific to your property type.
No. Under Colorado’s HB 24-1152 (effective June 30, 2025), HOAs in subject jurisdictions cannot ban ADU construction. They can require exterior materials to match the primary home, but they cannot deny your project outright.
Owner-occupancy requirements vary by city. Denver requires the owner to reside on the property when the ADU is completed. Most other metro cities do not require ongoing owner-occupancy for long-term rentals. Check your specific city’s rules.
Administrative review (no public hearing) typically takes 6–22 weeks depending on the city and project complexity. Basement conversions tend to permit faster than new detached construction. Having complete, professional plans from the start reduces review cycles significantly.
Answer 7 questions about your property and goals. Get your estimated cost range, best ADU type match, and HOA eligibility — in about 2 minutes. No sign-up. No sales call.