ADUs are the hottest residential investment in 2025 California. Rental income: $1,800–$2,800/month; property value increase: 9.34% annually (2013–2023 FHFA data). New 2025 laws simplify permits: 60-day approval, reduced setbacks, pre-approved designs available. Typical ROI: 65–100% over 6–8 years. This guide covers costs ($100,000–$200,000+), LADBS/CALTECH permits, energy codes, and step-by-step approval for LA, Orange County, San Diego, and beyond.

In Los Angeles / Orange County / San Fernando Valley, a full bath remodel runs $45K–$90K and takes 8–14 weeks, but code triggers such as Title 24 energy compliance or hillside structural issues can add 2–4 weeks and $5K–$15K to your budget.

Introduction For LA homeowners, kitchens are the home’s heart, and the #1 value driver. Mid-century and older buildings need layout upgrades; wildfire recovery has led to permit delays citywide. Three pain points for 2025: Outdated layouts/workflows, especially in mid-century homes. Permit delays: LADBS plan check now averages 8–14 weeks post fire. New energy code compliance—Title 24 and solar prep increase budgets by 10–20%. October local context: Holiday rush is near; many

Introduction Los Angeles homeowners in places like Pasadena Hills, Studio City, Sherman Oaks, Malibu, and Newport Coast  face a different set of rules than flat-lot projects. Every grading change and deck expansion triggers LADBS review, plus CAL FIRE’s WUI requirements for fire-rated siding, roofing, and defensible space. With recent Title 24 and WUI updates, even a simple stucco recoat or window replacement can require plan check and site inspection. Here’s what contractors