ADU & Garage Conversions in San Pedro, CA – Trusted Experts from Long Beach

Nestled in the historic Harbor region of Los Angeles, San Pedro offers homeowners unique opportunities to maximize their property value through thoughtful expansions. In this coastal community of 80,065 residents, where Mediterranean climate prevails with year-round sunshine and mild temperatures averaging 46-82°F, garage conversions and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have become increasingly popular solutions for creating additional living space.


Modern ADU Builder & Garage Conversions has transformed underutilized spaces into functional, code-compliant living areas for San Pedro homeowners. Our award-winning team specializes in designs that complement the area's diverse architectural heritage—from Victorian and Craftsman to Spanish-influenced styles that reflect the neighborhood's rich maritime history dating back to 1784.


We understand San Pedro's unique characteristics—its coastal elevation ranging from sea level to 200 feet, its 14.02 inches of annual rainfall, and the specific requirements of Los Angeles City Council District 15 regulations. Our licensed contractors use premium-grade, marine-resistant materials designed specifically for this oceanside environment.


Whether you need rental income in a community where 56.1% are renters, a home office with views of the bustling Port of Los Angeles, or additional space for family in this culturally diverse area. From initial consultation through permitting, construction, and ongoing maintenance, we deliver reliable service tailored to San Pedro's distinctive character and your specific needs.


What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?


An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a secondary housing unit located on the same property as a primary residence. It can be either attached or detached from the main house.

ADUs often include all the essentials: a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and sleeping quarters. They are designed to provide independent living space.


In San Pedro, where the median household income is approximately $57,508 and housing costs continue to rise, ADUs serve multiple purposes, such as housing family members, generating rental income, or offering affordable housing options in this historic port neighborhood.


Local regulations influence the size, placement, and type of ADU allowed. In San Pedro, California, recent updates have encouraged ADU construction to address housing needs, particularly important in a community where 56.1% of residents are renters.


Benefits of Garage Conversions


Garage conversions offer practical and efficient ways to expand your living space without the need for major construction. In San Pedro's Mediterranean climate, with average temperatures ranging from 46°F in winter to 82°F in summer, these conversions provide comfortable living spaces year-round.


Increased Usable Space


Converting a garage creates valuable, functional rooms such as guest suites, home offices, or rental units. This approach allows you to maximize the existing footprint of your home without altering your yard or property layout in this densely populated coastal community.


Cost-Effective Expansion


Garage conversions generally cost less than building a new addition. We focus on leveraging existing infrastructure like walls, roofs, and utility lines, which helps reduce material and labor expenses—particularly valuable in San Pedro where property values continue to rise.


Enhanced Property Value


A well-executed garage conversion can increase your home's market appeal and value. In San Pedro's diverse real estate market, where architectural styles reflect its rich maritime history dating back to 1784, buyers often appreciate added living space that doesn't require an entire remodel or extension.


Types of ADUs and Garage Conversions in

San Pedro


We offer a variety of ADUs and garage conversion options tailored to meet the needs of homeowners in San Pedro. Each type has specific benefits and can be customized to fit the property and local regulations.


Detached ADUs


Detached ADUs are separate structures situated within the backyard or on the same property but apart from the main house. They offer privacy for tenants or family members and can be designed as studio or multi-room units.


These units are built with premium-grade materials designed to withstand San Pedro's coastal conditions, including marine-grade finishes that resist salt air deterioration common in this seaside community.


Attached ADUs


Attached ADUs share a wall with the main house but have a separate entrance. They are a cost-effective option for expanding living space without extensive changes to the property.


Our attached ADUs use energy-efficient materials and construction methods appropriate for San Pedro's mild climate, where summer temperatures average 73°F, making passive cooling strategies highly effective.


Garage Conversions


Garage conversions transform existing garage space into livable ADUs. This option utilizes an already developed footprint, often saving time and money.


We specialize in complete garage transformation, including electrical rewiring, plumbing installation, insulation upgrades, and structural reinforcements to meet California's rigorous seismic standards—especially important given San Pedro's history with the 1929 Sunken City Disaster.


Why Choose Modern ADU Builder & Garage Conversions


We provide licensed, local ADU construction services specializing in San Pedro and Long Beach. Our team focuses on delivering trusted solutions tailored to the specific needs of these communities with detailed attention to city codes and client expectations.


Company Overview and Reputation


Our company has stellar ratings, with successfully completed projects throughout the Los Angeles Harbor region. 


Our process is transparent, from initial consultation through project completion, ensuring no hidden costs or surprises. We provide comprehensive warranties on all workmanship (5-year standard) and materials (up to 25 years depending on components).


Our staff consists of licensed ADU building contractors well-versed in both design and construction. We align our approach with client goals while adhering strictly to safety and quality standards required in this seismically active region.


Licenses, Insurance, and Certifications


We maintain all required licenses for construction in California and carry comprehensive insurance coverage, including:


  • General liability policy
  • Worker's compensation for all employees
  • Professional liability insurance for design services


These credentials ensure that your project meets all legal requirements and is protected throughout the construction process.


The ADU and Garage Conversion Process


We guide our clients through each phase of creating functional, code-compliant ADUs or garage conversions. Our approach ensures clarity, efficiency, and adherence to San Pedro regulations.


Consultation and Project Planning


Our process begins with a comprehensive consultation to understand your property's potential and goals. We evaluate zoning, lot size, and existing structures to determine the best ADU or garage conversion options.


During this stage, we discuss budget, timeline, and scope while addressing concerns relevant to San Pedro properties, including considerations for the area's consistent sea breezes and sunny climate with 267 days of sunshine annually.


Design and Engineering


We handle all aspects of ADU design and build, creating customized plans that maximize space and comply with San Pedro codes. Our in-house engineers and architects develop precise drawings and structural calculations.


We use only premium-grade materials from trusted suppliers with established track records. For coastal properties, we select specialized components including:


  • Corrosion-resistant fasteners and hardware
  • Moisture-resistant drywall and insulation
  • High-performance windows rated for coastal conditions
  • Exterior finishes tested to withstand salt air exposure


Permitting in San Pedro, CA


Navigating local regulations is critical. We manage all permits and approvals required by San Pedro and Los Angeles County, including planning, building, and environmental reviews.


Our team prepares and submits detailed applications, addressing zoning laws, setbacks, parking requirements, and utility hookups, ensuring compliance with specific Los Angeles City Council District 15 regulations that govern San Pedro.


Construction and Finishing


Once permits are in place, we initiate the ADU construction management phase. Our project managers oversee daily operations, subcontractors, and material deliveries to ensure timely progress.


We incorporate appropriate measures for San Pedro's coastal environment, where proximity to the ocean (elevation ranges from sea level to about 200 feet) can affect material durability and construction approaches.


Customization Options for Your ADU or Garage Conversion


We offer a range of options that address space, style, and sustainability. Our focus is on creating functional yet personalized living areas that meet your specific needs and preferences.


Custom Floor Plans and Layouts


We work closely with you to design floor plans tailored to your lifestyle and property constraints. Whether you want a studio setup or a multi-room layout, our custom ADU builders create efficient, comfortable spaces that maximize square footage and take advantage of San Pedro's moderate year-round climate.


Material Quality and Selection


We source materials from industry-leading suppliers, offering several tiers of quality options to match your budget and durability requirements. All products meet or exceed California building codes, with special attention to:


  • Energy efficiency ratings appropriate for climate zone 8 (coastal Southern California)
  • Low-VOC and environmentally friendly options
  • Durability ratings suitable for marine environments
  • Materials tested for earthquake resilience


Eco-Friendly Features


Our eco-friendly ADU builders integrate sustainable elements including solar power systems, rainwater collection, and energy-efficient appliances—all particularly effective in San Pedro's climate, where mild temperatures allow for significant energy savings.


Every ADU we build includes a comprehensive materials warranty package, with documentation provided upon project completion for your records.