How We Build Your ADU
Burch Contracting builds accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across Upstate South Carolina designed for independent living, family flexibility, and long-term property value. Whether you're creating guest quarters, rental income, or multi-generational housing, we handle foundation design for local clay soil, full systems integration, and permitting for Upstate SC building codes. With 35+ years of experience, we deliver ADU projects built to perform like standalone homes.
Detached ADU vs Garage Conversion
ADU construction approach comparison
| Feature | Detached New Build | Garage Conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $120-180/sqft | $80-120/sqft |
| Square Footage | 400-1200 sqft typical | Limited to existing garage size |
| Site Prep | Full foundation, utilities | Use existing foundation |
| Zoning/Setbacks | Must meet ADU setback rules | Often pre-compliant |
| Design Flexibility | Complete customization | Constrained by existing structure |
| Timeline | 6-10 months | 3-5 months |
| Best For | Long-term rental income, maximum space | Faster completion, budget-conscious |
Our Proven Process
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1
Site Planning & Permitting
We evaluate your property for setbacks, utilities, and zoning requirements. A detailed site plan is developed and submitted for permit approval with local Upstate SC building departments.
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2
Foundation & Structural Build
Foundation is engineered for local soil conditions. Framing, roofing, and exterior systems are built to code with proper moisture protection and insulation throughout.
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3
Systems Integration & Rough-In
HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and septic connections are completed professionally. All rough-in work is inspected and code-compliant before moving to interior finishes.
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4
Interior Finishes & Final Inspection
Kitchen, bathroom, and living area finishes are completed with quality materials and professional craftsmanship. We coordinate final inspections and deliver a move-in ready space.
Why this process matters in Upstate SC:
- • Proper moisture control for our humid climate
- • Reinforced foundations built for local clay soil conditions
- • 35+ years of experience with Upstate SC permitting and inspections
- • Transparent communication so there are no surprises
Get Your Instant ADU Estimate
Frequently Asked Questions: ADU in Upstate SC
How much does an ADU cost in Upstate South Carolina? +
Accessory dwelling unit construction in Upstate SC typically costs $120–180 per square foot for new detached builds and $80–120 per square foot for garage conversions. A standard 600 sqft detached ADU runs $72,000–$108,000 fully built with kitchen, bathroom, HVAC, and utilities. Garage conversions run $50,000–$75,000 for a similar 600 sqft unit. ADU costs include site planning, permits, foundation, framing, all systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, septic), and interior finishes. According to the Urban Land Institute, rental ADUs in growing Southeast metro areas like Greenville generate $900–$1,400/month gross rental income, yielding 7–12% gross annual returns.
Are ADUs allowed everywhere in Upstate South Carolina? +
ADU regulations vary by municipality and county in Upstate SC. Greenville County updated its zoning ordinance in 2022 to permit ADUs on most residential lots with minimum 10,000 sqft lot size. The City of Greenville allows ADUs in R-1 through R-4 zones. Simpsonville, Mauldin, Fountain Inn, and Laurens County each have separate ordinances with different setback and size requirements. Some areas require owner-occupancy of either the primary home or ADU. We conduct a zoning review before any design work — ADU permissibility, setback rules, and utility connection requirements must be confirmed before project planning.
How long does it take to build an ADU in Upstate SC? +
ADU construction in Upstate South Carolina typically takes 6–10 months from project start to move-in. Zoning review and initial planning take 2–4 weeks. Permit approval for a new detached ADU takes 4–8 weeks due to the complexity of site plans, utility connections, and septic permits. Foundation and framing take 4–6 weeks. Systems rough-in (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) and inspections add 3–4 weeks. Interior finishes and final inspections complete the last 4–6 weeks. Garage conversions move faster — typically 3–5 months from permits to completion.
Can an ADU be used as a rental property in South Carolina? +
Yes — ADUs in South Carolina can be rented as long-term rentals (12-month leases) in most jurisdictions. Short-term rental (Airbnb, VRBO) regulations vary by municipality: the City of Greenville requires a short-term rental license, while unincorporated Greenville County currently has fewer restrictions. Rental income from an ADU is treated as ordinary income for federal tax purposes, and the depreciation schedule on the ADU structure provides significant tax offset. We design ADUs with long-term rental function in mind — separate metered utilities, private entrance, soundproofing between units, and durable finishes that minimize maintenance costs.