ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units in Colorado Springs

Trusted Accessory Dwelling Unit Contractor in Colorado Springs, CO

Add a detached unit, garage conversion, or in-law apartment with full design, permitting, and construction support from one team.

Every Scale.
Every Detail.

Ivory Ridge Custom Construction provides professional ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units services throughout Colorado Springs, CO and the surrounding region. Whether you are tackling a targeted upgrade or a large-scale project, our experienced team delivers the quality, reliability, and transparent communication that Colorado homeowners and business owners depend on.

Our team has completed ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units projects across El Paso County, Douglas County, and Teller County. We understand the local building codes, permitting requirements, and climate considerations that affect construction quality in Colorado Springs, and we bring that expertise to every job we accept.

Call (719) 426-1130 to schedule your consultation, or submit a project inquiry online.

ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units project gallery

What We Offer

Our adu / accessory dwelling units services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. We collaborate with you from the initial planning stages through project completion, ensuring every decision aligns with your goals, timeline, and budget. We work with high-quality materials suited to Colorado's climate, source from trusted local suppliers, and employ skilled tradespeople who take genuine pride in their work.

Every project begins with a thorough site assessment and detailed planning session. We discuss your expectations, walk through the scope of work, identify any potential challenges, and develop a realistic timeline and budget. We do not start work until you fully understand and approve the plan.

ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units detail

01

Detached ADU Construction

A detached accessory dwelling unit is a fully independent structure built on the same lot as a primary residence, with its own foundation, utilities, and living amenities. Detached ADUs in Colorado Springs can be built as new structures in a rear yard, converted from existing detached garages, or built above a new detached garage structure. We manage the full design, permitting, and construction scope for detached ADUs under City of Colorado Springs ADU ordinance requirements.

02

Attached ADU Additions

Attached ADUs are constructed as additions to the primary home, sharing at least one wall with the main structure. A ground-level attached ADU typically includes an independent entrance from the exterior, a kitchen or kitchenette, a full bathroom, and a bedroom or sleeping area. Attached ADUs are often faster to permit than detached units because they are reviewed under the same permit as the primary structure.

03

Basement ADU Conversions

Converting an unfinished or underutilized basement into a legal ADU creates rental income potential without the site coverage impact of a new detached structure. Colorado Springs basement ADUs require egress windows sized to code for bedroom use, a private exterior entrance, proper kitchen rough-in with appropriate ventilation, and independent metering where required. We manage the full conversion scope including structural, MEP, and finish work.

04

Garage Conversion ADUs

Attached or detached garage conversions represent one of the most cost-effective ADU pathways — the foundation, walls, and roof structure already exist. Garage ADUs require thermal envelope improvements (insulation, window upgrades, weather-tight vehicle door replacement with living-space wall system), interior MEP installation, and finish work to create livable space. Colorado Springs and El Paso County have specific requirements for garage ADU setbacks and exterior character.

05

ADU Permitting and Code Navigation

Colorado Springs's ADU ordinance and El Paso County's accessory structure regulations create a regulatory landscape that requires careful navigation. Owner-occupancy requirements, maximum unit sizes, setback rules, parking provisions, and utility metering requirements vary by parcel location and zoning designation. We handle the pre-application meeting with City of Colorado Springs Planning, the design review process, permit application, and all inspection milestones through certificate of occupancy.

Our Process

01

Consultation

We start with a comprehensive consultation to understand your goals, review the project scope, and answer your questions.

02

Planning & Design

Our team develops a detailed project plan tailored to your needs, covering materials, construction approach, timeline, and budget.

03

Permitting

We manage the permitting process from start to finish, coordinating with the City of Colorado Springs and El Paso County building departments as required.

04

Construction

Our crew executes the project with precision and care, maintaining clear communication throughout.

05

Completion & Walkthrough

We conduct a thorough final walkthrough with you to verify every detail meets your expectations before we consider the job complete.

How Much Does ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units
Cost in Colorado Springs?

ADU construction costs depend on unit type, square footage, and the condition of any existing structure being converted. Here are general ranges for Colorado Springs area ADU projects: Colorado Springs passed ADU-friendly ordinance updates that broadened eligible zones and reduced some regulatory barriers. El Paso County outside city limits has separate ADU regulations. We assess your parcel's specific zoning and ADU eligibility as part of the initial project consultation at no charge.

Basement ADU Conversion (unfinished basement)

$60,000–$110,000

depending on plumbing infrastructure and scope

Garage ADU Conversion (attached or detached garage)

$55,000–$95,000

depending on garage condition and finish level

Attached ADU Addition (new construction, 400–600 sq ft)

$120,000–$175,000

Detached ADU (new construction, 400–800 sq ft)

$150,000–$280,000

depending on size and site conditions

ADU Above Detached Garage (new garage + upper unit)

$175,000–$320,000

Permitting and Plan Review (City of Colorado Springs ADU permit)

$2,000–$5,000

typically

ADU / Accessory Dwelling Units
by Project Type

Owner-Occupants Generating Rental Income

Colorado Springs's strong rental market — driven by Peterson Space Force Base, Fort Carson, and the growing healthcare and technology employment base — creates demand for ADU rental units. Homeowners who build ADUs and rent them out can offset mortgage costs or generate supplemental income in a market with consistently low vacancy rates.

Multi-Generational Housing

Adult children returning home, aging parents who want independence while living near family, and blended families across Colorado Springs increasingly use ADUs as a multi-generational housing solution. We design ADUs with the specific needs of the intended occupant in mind — accessibility features for aging residents, study and work-from-home space for adult children.

Property Value Increase

Legal ADUs on Colorado Springs properties create measurable appraisal value increase — typically $100,000–$200,000+ in additional property value depending on unit quality and income potential. We advise homeowners on ADU designs that maximize income potential and appraisal value within the site's constraints.

Why Choose
Ivory Ridge Custom Construction

LOCAL EXPERTISE IN COLORADO SPRINGS

We have completed projects throughout El Paso County, Douglas County, and Teller County and understand the specific building codes, soil conditions, weather considerations, and permitting requirements that affect construction quality and timelines in this region.

QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP ON EVERY PROJECT

We hold our work to a high standard and use materials and construction techniques designed to perform in Colorado's climate for decades.

TRANSPARENT PRICING WITH NO SURPRISES

We provide detailed, itemized estimates before work begins and communicate any changes promptly. You will never receive a bill that looks different from what we quoted.

EXPERIENCED, PROFESSIONAL CREWS

Our team brings years of hands-on construction experience to every project. We are fully licensed and insured in the state of Colorado.

ON-TIME DELIVERY

We respect your schedule and work to deliver every project on time. When unforeseen conditions arise, we communicate immediately and develop a plan to minimize impact.

Serving Colorado's
Front Range
& Beyond

Ivory Ridge Custom Construction serves Colorado Springs and surrounding communities throughout El Paso, Douglas, and Teller counties.

Get A Free Quote

What Our Clients Say.

5.0 on Google· Verified reviews
Read all reviews on Google
Ivory Ridge built our dream home and exceeded every expectation. Communication was outstanding and the craftsmanship is incredible.

Sarah M.

Custom Home · Monument

Our kitchen remodel came in on budget and on schedule. They treated our home with respect every single day.

David & Lisa K.

Kitchen Remodel · Briargate

Hands down the most professional builder we've worked with in Colorado Springs. Highly recommend.

Michael R.

Home Addition · Castle Rock

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ADU?

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary residential unit on a single-family lot. ADUs can be detached structures, garage conversions, basement conversions, or attached additions. They are commonly used for rental income, multigenerational living, or guest housing.

Is an ADU allowed on my property in Colorado Springs?

ADU regulations vary by zoning district and municipality. Many areas of El Paso County now permit ADUs with specific size, setback, and utility requirements. We can help you assess whether your property qualifies during the consultation process.

How much does it cost to build an ADU?

ADU costs depend on type, size, and site conditions. A basement conversion is typically less expensive than a detached ADU. We provide detailed estimates after reviewing your property, goals, and local requirements.

Can I rent out my ADU?

In most cases, yes. Colorado Springs and El Paso County allow rental of permitted ADUs, but there may be owner-occupancy requirements depending on your zone. We recommend confirming rental rules with the municipality before starting the project.

How long does it take to build an ADU?

A basement conversion ADU typically takes 3 to 5 months. A detached ADU may take 6 to 9 months depending on site work, permitting, and construction complexity. We provide a detailed project schedule after the design phase.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Ivory Ridge Custom Construction in Colorado Springs, CO to request your consultation. Call (719) 426-1130 or submit a project request online today.

Request a Consultation
Ivory Ridge custom home