Massachusetts ADU Specialists

ADU Construction in Massachusetts

Kenmore Construction Group builds accessory dwelling units across Massachusetts — from design and permitting through to a move-in-ready structure that adds lasting value to your property.

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  • MA Licensed & Fully Insured
  • We Handle All Permits & Inspections
  • Serving All of Massachusetts
  • 5-Star Rated by MA Homeowners
Why Build an ADU in Massachusetts?

The Smartest Investment You Can Make in Your Property

An accessory dwelling unit isn't just additional square footage — it's a fundamentally new way to think about your property.

Massachusetts homeowners are increasingly discovering the power of ADUs. Whether you're looking to generate consistent rental income, create a private space for aging parents, give a college student or adult child their own address, or simply expand your property's long-term value — a thoughtfully designed ADU delivers.

And Massachusetts has never been a better place to build one. Recent state legislation — including the MBTA Communities Act — has dramatically reduced zoning barriers that previously made ADU construction difficult. In most Massachusetts municipalities, you now have more options than ever.

Kenmore Construction Group specializes in navigating this landscape. We understand Massachusetts ADU regulations, local zoning bylaws, and the permitting process at a level of detail that protects your timeline and your investment.

IMAGE: Interior of completed ADU — warm lighting, modern finishes, well-furnished, showing livable quality. Natural light ideal.
Types of ADUs We Build

Every ADU Type, Built to the Highest Standard

From fully detached guest cottages to above-garage apartments and in-law suites — Kenmore builds all major ADU types across Massachusetts.

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Detached ADU

A completely separate structure on your property — fully independent with its own entrance, utilities, kitchen, and living space. Maximum privacy for tenants or family members. Ideal for properties with yard space.

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Garage Conversion ADU

Transform an underutilized garage into a fully functional living unit. One of the most cost-effective ADU types, with existing walls and a foundation already in place. Attached or detached garages both qualify.

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Attached ADU

A unit connected to your primary home but with its own separate entrance and full amenities. Often built as a side addition or rear addition. Integrates seamlessly with your home's architecture.

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Above-Garage ADU

Build living space above an existing or new garage — an efficient use of vertical space that creates a private, elevated apartment without consuming your yard. Popular in Newton, Wellesley, and other space-constrained communities.

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Basement ADU

Convert your basement into a fully permitted, legal living unit. Requires proper egress, ceiling height, and separate entrance — all elements we design and engineer as part of the project.

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In-Law Suite

A dedicated living space for a parent, in-law, or extended family member — maintaining family closeness while providing genuine independence. Can be attached to the home or built as a separate structure.

Our ADU Process

From Concept to Completion — We Handle Everything

Building an ADU involves more steps than most homeowners expect. We manage every phase — so you always know what's happening and what comes next.

01

Site Assessment & Feasibility

We review your property, confirm what your local municipality allows, assess site conditions, and provide an honest feasibility analysis. This step protects you from investing in a project your zoning won't support.

02

Design & Architecture

We work with you on the design — floor plan, layout, architectural style, materials, and finishes. The goal is a structure that complements your existing home and meets your functional requirements, whether that's a rental unit, guest house, or family space.

03

Permitting & Approvals

We prepare and submit all permit applications, respond to requests for information from the building department, and coordinate with local zoning authorities. Massachusetts permitting timelines vary by municipality — we set honest expectations from the start.

04

Construction

Our licensed team manages your build from groundbreaking to trim. You receive regular project updates, direct access to your project manager, and consistent communication about schedule, progress, and any field decisions that arise.

05

Final Inspection & Handover

We pass all required inspections, complete a comprehensive walkthrough with you, and ensure every detail is finished to standard. You receive your Certificate of Occupancy and a fully permitted, legal unit — ready for tenants or family.

Massachusetts ADU Regulations

What Massachusetts Law Means for Your Property

Massachusetts has undergone significant changes to its ADU legislation over the past several years. The MBTA Communities Act, along with amendments to Chapter 40A, has made it substantially easier for homeowners to build ADUs in most Massachusetts municipalities.

Under current Massachusetts law, most single-family zoned properties are now permitted to build at least one ADU by right — meaning you don't need a special permit or variance in many cases. This represents a major shift from the previous patchwork of local restrictions that made ADU construction difficult.

However, individual municipalities still have meaningful authority over setbacks, size limits, design standards, and owner-occupancy requirements. The rules in Newton differ from those in Wellesley, which differ from those in Worcester.

That's why our first step with every ADU client is always a property-specific feasibility review — confirming what your specific municipality allows before you invest in design or commit to a project timeline.

Kenmore Construction Group stays current on Massachusetts ADU law, local zoning bylaws, and building department requirements statewide. Our experience means fewer surprises, smoother permitting, and a project that goes from approval to move-in on schedule.

What Our ADU Clients Say

Results That Speak for Themselves

★★★★★

"Kenmore managed our entire ADU project — from checking our town's zoning bylaws to handing us the keys. Their knowledge of Massachusetts permitting requirements saved us months of confusion. The ADU is beautiful and already cash-flowing."

Sarah M.
Detached ADU — Newton, MA
★★★★★

"We converted our detached garage into a studio apartment for my mother-in-law. Kenmore handled every detail — design, permits, and construction — and the result is genuinely better than we imagined. She loves it. We love having her close."

Michael & Jennifer P.
Garage Conversion ADU — Concord, MA
ADU Investment

What Does an ADU Cost in Massachusetts?

ADU construction costs vary significantly by type, size, and municipality. Here's a general orientation:

$100K–$175K
Garage Conversion
Converting an existing garage into a studio or 1BR unit. Existing structure reduces cost.
$175K–$300K
Attached ADU
Addition to your existing home with a separate entrance. Cost varies with size and finish level.
$200K–$400K+
Detached ADU
Fully separate structure — highest cost, highest privacy, maximum flexibility. Most popular in higher-value markets.

Costs are estimates only. Actual cost depends on your specific property, municipality, design choices, and site conditions. We provide detailed project estimates during the consultation process.

Common Questions

ADU Construction in Massachusetts — FAQ

ADU construction costs in Massachusetts typically range from $100,000 for a basic garage conversion to $400,000 or more for a high-end detached unit. Key factors include size, ADU type (detached vs. attached vs. garage conversion), finish level, site conditions, and your municipality's permit fees. We provide detailed, itemized estimates during the consultation process — no vague ranges.
In most Massachusetts single-family residential zones, you are now permitted to build at least one ADU by right — without a special permit or variance — thanks to recent changes in Massachusetts law, including Chapter 40A Section 3. However, your specific municipality may still impose size limits, setback requirements, design standards, or owner-occupancy rules. We conduct a property-specific feasibility review as part of every initial consultation.
Yes. ADU construction in Massachusetts requires a building permit, and the process typically involves multiple inspections at key construction milestones. You'll need to meet all applicable building codes, energy efficiency requirements, and potentially zoning board review depending on your municipality. Kenmore Construction Group handles all permit filings, documentation, and inspection coordination on your behalf.
Total project timelines vary by type. Garage conversions typically take 4–6 months from permit approval. Attached and above-garage ADUs often run 6–8 months. Detached ADUs are typically 8–12 months, depending on size and complexity. Permitting itself can add 2–4 months depending on your municipality's review timeline. We provide a full project schedule before construction begins so you know exactly what to expect.
Yes — a properly permitted ADU can be rented to a tenant under Massachusetts landlord-tenant law. Some municipalities previously required owner-occupancy (you living on the property), but recent Massachusetts legislation has significantly reduced or eliminated this requirement in many communities. We advise on current requirements in your specific municipality as part of our feasibility consultation.
Yes. A permitted, professionally built ADU typically increases your property's appraised value — both through the addition of livable square footage and through the income-generating potential it represents. In high-demand Massachusetts markets like Newton, Wellesley, Brookline, and Lexington, ADUs with strong rental income potential can command meaningful property value premiums.
Start Your ADU Project

Let's Assess Your Property — At No Cost to You

Our complimentary ADU consultation reviews your property, confirms feasibility, and outlines a clear path forward — so you can make an informed decision before committing to anything.