Understand feasibility, costs, and next steps - then schedule a discovery call in under 2 minutes.
What Is a DADU?
A Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) is a standalone secondary home built on your existing property. Homeowners commonly use DADUs for long-term rental income, housing family members, home offices, or aging-in-place solutions. While DADUs are allowed in many areas, every property is different. Feasibility depends on zoning rules, lot size, access, utilities, and overall project budget. Our process is designed to help you understand what is possible before investing heavily in design or plans.
Most DADU projects succeed when we align feasibility + budget early—before design costs stack up.
FAQs
What’s the first step to building a DADU?
The first step is reaching out. Every DADU project is unique, and it starts with understanding your property, zoning, and goals. From there, we’ll help you map out next steps.
Do I need plans to start?
No — you don’t need plans to start. Most DADU projects in Nashville begin with a conversation and a zoning review. We are happy to help you understand what’s possible on your property based on zoning, overlays, and site conditions before any design work begins.
How long does a DADU take?
Most DADUs are completed in about 4-6 months, depending on zoning requirements, permitting, design complexity, and finish selections. After reviewing your property, we can provide a clearer timeline and full build schedule.
Can you help with design?
Yes! We work closely with trusted design partners to help develop DADU layouts that meet Nashville zoning requirements and fit your goals. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an idea, we’re happy to guide the design and feasibility process.
Can I use a DADU as a rental?
In many cases, yes! Depending on zoning and overlays, a DADU may be eligible for long-term or short-term rental use. Owner-occupancy rules can apply. We’ll help determine what your specific address allows and walk you through the approval process.
What else can I use a DADU for?
DADUs are extremely flexible spaces. The possibilities are endless! Common uses include:
- Guest house
- Home office or live-work space
- Music or recording studio
- Yoga, fitness, or wellness studio
- In-law suite or family housing
A DADU is a practical way to expand how your property works for you.
How will DADU Construction affect my day-to-day living?
We work to keep DADU construction as unobtrusive as possible. Temporary fencing is typically installed to separate work areas, and utility connections are coordinated to minimize interruptions. Construction will be happening on your property, but we prioritize clear communication and thoughtful site planning.
Does a DADU increase my property value?
We highly recommend talking with a realtor about this, but in most cases, yes. A permitted DADU can increase property value by adding usable square footage, rental potential, and long-term flexibility — especially in high-demand Nashville neighborhoods.
How large can my DADU be?
DADU size is determined by Nashville zoning regulations, lot size, setbacks, and any applicable overlays. A zoning review will clarify what’s allowed on your property.
Does my DADU need to match my main home?
Not always. In some historic overlay districts, there may be requirements related to roof form, eaves, or exterior materials. Outside of those areas, a DADU does not typically need to match the main house exactly, though complementary design is encouraged.
Interested in Building A DADU?
Answer a few quick questions about your property, goals, and timeline. Based on your responses, we will recommend the most realistic next step and give you the option to schedule a DADU Discovery Call.
