The Complete Guide to Accessory Dwelling Units in Southwest Virginia
Quick Answer: Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are small, separate living spaces on the same property as your main home. They can be used for family members, rental income, or guest space. In southwest Virginia, more homeowners are adding ADUs to make better use of their property, provide housing for loved ones, or bring in extra income.
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An accessory dwelling unit, often called a backyard cottage, in-law suite, or guest house, is a smaller home built on the same lot as your main house. ADUs can be attached (like a basement apartment or garage apartment) or detached (like a small house in the backyard).
For homeowners in Troutville VA, Roanoke, Salem, and surrounding towns, ADUs are becoming popular because they’re flexible, affordable, and useful in many ways.
Southern Trace specializes in building custom ADUs that match your property and your needs—whether you want a cozy place for your parents, extra income through rentals, or simply more space for your growing family.
What Are the Main Features of an ADU?
ADUs can be customized to fit your lot and lifestyle. Here are the most common features:
1. Private Living Space
An ADU has its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living area. This gives privacy while still being close to the main home.
2. Multiple Size Options
Small studio ADU: Perfect for a single renter or guest.
One-bedroom ADU: Great for grandparents or college-age kids.
Two-bedroom ADU: Works well for a small family.
3. Flexible Designs
Southern Trace can build:
Attached ADUs: Built over a garage, basement, or as an addition to your home.
Detached ADUs: A small house or cottage in your backyard.
Converted spaces: Turning an existing garage or barn into a living space.
4. Energy-Efficient Construction
New ADUs are built with modern insulation, windows, and HVAC systems, which make them more affordable to heat and cool in Virginia’s changing seasons.
5. Blends with Your Property
A good contractor, like Southern Trace, makes sure your ADU matches your home’s style so it looks like it belongs.
What Are the Benefits of an ADU?
So why are so many homeowners in Troutville and across the Blue Ridge Mountains looking into ADUs? Here are the biggest benefits:
1. Extra Income from Rentals
Renting out an ADU can help cover your mortgage or bring in steady income. In Roanoke and Blacksburg, demand for rentals is high because of nearby colleges and hospitals.
2. Space for Family Members
Need a safe place for your parents? Want a private spot for your adult kids? ADUs let families stay close without losing independence.
3. Increases Property Value
Homes with an ADU usually appraise higher. It’s an investment that can pay off if you ever sell your house.
4. Multi-Use Flexibility
An ADU can serve as:
A home office
A guest house
A short-term rental (great for spots near Smith Mountain Lake)
A private retreat space
5. Supports Aging in Place
As families in southwest Virginia look for ways to care for older loved ones, ADUs provide a more affordable and personal option compared to assisted living.
Seasonal Considerations for ADUs in Southwest Virginia
Southwest Virginia has four distinct seasons, and each affects how you should design and build your ADU.
Cold winters in the Blue Ridge Mountains: Strong insulation, double-pane windows, and reliable heating systems are essential.
Hot, humid summers: Good ventilation, ceiling fans, and shaded porches make a big difference.
Rainy spring and fall: Proper grading and gutters help avoid water problems.
Storms and wind near the Parkway: Using durable roofing and siding protects your investment.
Southern Trace knows the local climate well and helps homeowners design ADUs that are comfortable year-round.
How Much Does an ADU Cost in Southwest Virginia?
Costs depend on size, design, and whether you’re converting space or building new. On average in Virginia:
Garage conversion ADU: $50,000–$80,000
Small detached ADU (studio/1-bedroom): $80,000–$150,000
Larger detached ADU (2-bedroom): $150,000–$250,000+
Factors that affect cost include:
Site prep (grading, foundation work)
Utility hookups (sewer, water, electric)
Finishing level (basic vs. upgraded kitchens/baths)
Local permits and inspections
Southern Trace works with homeowners to design a budget-friendly plan that fits your needs. You can learn more about planning your project on our Design-Build Services page.
Are ADUs Allowed in Troutville and Roanoke County?
In southwest Virginia, zoning rules vary by county and town. Many areas allow ADUs, but rules about size, height, and use can differ.
For example:
Botetourt County allows accessory apartments with certain limits.
Roanoke County requires permits and sometimes design approval.
Bedford County has rules on lot size and setbacks.
Southern Trace helps homeowners navigate local zoning laws and permits so you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Step-by-Step Process of Building an ADU with Southern Trace
Building an ADU doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here’s what the process looks like with our Troutville-based team:
Initial Consultation: We talk through your goals, budget, and site options.
Design Phase: Our design team creates plans that fit your property and match your home’s style.
Permits and Approvals: We handle the paperwork and zoning requirements with your county or town.
Construction: Our builders complete the ADU with quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Final Inspections and Walk-Through: We make sure everything is safe, up to code, and ready to enjoy.
This full-service approach saves homeowners stress and ensures the ADU project stays on schedule.
How Long Does It Take to Build an ADU?
Most ADUs take 3–6 months from design to completion, depending on size and complexity.
Planning and permits: 1–2 months
Construction: 3–4 months
Finishing and inspections: 2–4 weeks
Our team at Southern Trace handles everything—from design to final walk-through—so the process is smooth and stress-free.
Why Choose Southern Trace for Your ADU?
Southern Trace is a family-owned construction company in Troutville VA with over 30 years of combined experience. Homeowners across Roanoke, Salem, Bedford, and Franklin County trust us for:
Custom design-build services
Full project management from permits to completion
Local expertise in southwest Virginia building codes and weather needs
5-star rated service focused on quality and communication
Check out our other guides, like What to Expect When Building a Custom Home in Virginia and Planning a Home Addition in Roanoke.
FAQ: Accessory Dwelling Units in Southwest Virginia
Q: What’s the difference between an ADU and a tiny home?
A: An ADU is built on the same property as your main house and has to follow local zoning laws. A tiny home can be on wheels or a separate lot.
Q: Can I rent out my ADU on Airbnb?
A: In some areas, yes. Roanoke and other Virginia counties may require permits for short-term rentals. Always check local rules.
Q: Do I need a separate utility hookup for an ADU?
A: Not always. Many ADUs can connect to your main home’s utilities, but larger detached units might need separate hookups.
Q: Is it cheaper to build an attached or detached ADU?
A: Attached ADUs (like basement apartments) are usually less expensive because you’re using existing walls and systems. Detached ADUs cost more but offer more privacy.
