An ADU builder in Florida starts with the zoning
Rules differ by municipality and by county across Central Florida, on top of the Florida Building Code. Within one jurisdiction they can differ by zoning district. The questions stay the same. Does this lot permit an ADU? What is the maximum size? Does it need a separate entrance or separate parking? Can you rent it? We check all of that before any design, because the answer is sometimes simply no.
If the lot sits in an HOA community, the association’s rules apply on top of the municipality’s. Frequently they are stricter.
Attached, detached, or a conversion
A garage conversion is usually the cheapest route. The slab, walls and roof already exist. A detached structure costs the most and gives the most separation. An attached unit sits in between and shares services more easily.
Services are the hidden cost
A second dwelling needs water, drainage, power and often its own HVAC. On a septic system, adding one can force a fresh look at the drain field. These are the items that move an ADU budget, far more than finishes do.