Pre-design service only — AI concept packages are not permit-ready plans. Need permit-ready drawings? See Design Services →
ADU & In-Law Suite
Zoning check, concept plan, permit filing, and contractor matching — all for your ADU.
All onsite installation and build work is performed by your contractor of record. Kealee provides AI design, final design packages, permit filing, advisory, and contractor matching services only.
Package includes
- Lot setback and ADU eligibility check
- AI-generated ADU concept floor plan
- Zoning overlay and FAR analysis
- Permit path identification (by-right vs. variance)
- Utility connection requirements
- Cost band estimate for your ADU scope
- ADU-specific permit preparation (bundle option)
Your Project Journey
AI Concept Package
Start here. See your project before anything is built.
Starting at $395Contractor Match
Optional. Match with verified contractors who bid on your scope.
See contractor network →Unused garage or lot space → Finished permitted ADU
Before
AfterChoose your package
All packages start with AI concept. Upgrade or add services at any step.
AI ADU Concept
1 feedback round · 5–7 business days
Lot eligibility check, 2–3 ADU concept layouts, and permit path.
- Lot eligibility check
- 2–3 ADU layout options
- FAR + zoning analysis
- Permit path ID
- Cost band estimate
ADU Concept + Permit
2 feedback rounds · 2–3 weeks
AI concept plus full permit preparation and filing — bundled for ADU projects.
- Everything in AI Concept
- Full permit preparation
- ADU permit forms + drawings
- Submission + tracking
- Comment response (2 rounds)
Full ADU Design
Up to 5 rounds · 4–6 weeks
Permit-ready architectural drawings, structural coordination, and full contractor package.
- Everything in Bundle
- Permit-ready arch. drawings
- Structural coordination
- Full spec package
- Contractor bid documents
How it works
Lot eligibility check
We verify setbacks, lot coverage, FAR limits, and jurisdiction-specific ADU allowances for your specific parcel.
Concept delivered (5–7 days)
2–3 ADU layout options sized for your lot constraints, with cost direction and permit path.
Permits filed (required)
ADUs require permits in all DMV jurisdictions. We prepare and file your complete ADU permit package.
Contractor match
Matched with verified contractors with ADU experience. Payments held in escrow at milestones.
About this service
ADUs are one of the highest-value additions in the DMV. Before you invest in designs or hire a contractor, we check your lot's eligibility, generate a concept layout, and identify your exact permit path. Then we file the permit and match you with ADU-experienced contractors.
Who this is for
Homeowners planning a detached ADU, garage conversion, basement apartment, or in-law suite in the DC/Maryland/Virginia metro area.
Common questions
Is my lot eligible for an ADU?
Most residential lots in DMV jurisdictions allow at least one ADU type. Eligibility depends on lot size, setbacks, existing coverage, and water/sewer availability.
Do ADUs increase property value?
Yes. DMV appraisers typically add $100K–$250K+ to property value for a finished, permitted ADU, depending on size and finish level.
Can I rent my ADU?
Yes, in all DMV jurisdictions. Some require owner-occupancy of the primary residence. We include this in your concept report.
How long does an ADU permit take?
By-right ADU permits: 4–8 weeks in most DMV jurisdictions. Projects requiring a variance: 3–6 months.
Ready to get started?
No commitment beyond this order. Every service is separate and optional. Stop at any step.
Starting at $395 · one-time · bundle available