Home Remodeling & Additions Blog

San Tan Valley is one of Arizona's most exciting growth communities — and thanks to sweeping new state law, its homeowners now have powerful new rights to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their properties.

Revival Contracting is here to help you use them.

What is an ADU — and why is San Tan Valley the perfect place to build one?
​An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a fully self-contained living space built on the same lot as your primary home. You may know it by another name: casita, guest house, in-law suite, granny flat, or backyard cottage.
Whatever you call it, an ADU comes with its own sleeping area, bathroom, kitchen, and separate entrance — making it a fully independent home that just happens to share your land.

San Tan Valley is uniquely well-suited for ADUs. Lots here tend to be larger than those in more built-out East Valley cities like Chandler or Tempe, giving homeowners the yard space to accommodate a detached casita with room to spare. The community also skews heavily toward multigenerational families — exactly the people an ADU serves best.

San Tan Valley & Pinal County ADU rules: what changed in 2025 and 2026
San Tan Valley is an unincorporated community in Pinal County, which means it falls under county zoning — not a city's. This distinction matters when it comes to ADUs, because the law that originally expanded ADU rights (HB 2720, passed in 2024) applied only to cities with populations over 75,000. San Tan Valley was not included at that time.

That changed with HB 2928, signed into law on May 23, 2025. This follow-up legislation extended essentially the same ADU rights to Arizona counties — including Pinal County. The Pinal County Board of Supervisors voted to update their Development Services Code ahead of the January 1, 2026 deadline, renaming "guest houses and casitas" as ADUs and aligning local rules with the new state standards.
PINAL COUNTY ADU RULES AT A GLANCE

• At least one attached and one detached ADU is permitted on any residentially zoned lot
• ADUs may not exceed 75% of your primary home's square footage, or 1,000 sq ft — whichever is smaller
• Minimum ADU size is 200 sq ft; must have a separate exterior entrance
• Side and rear setbacks cannot exceed 5 feet
• The county cannot require the ADU to match your home's exterior design, roof pitch, or finishing materials
• No additional parking required solely because of an ADU
• The ADU and primary home share a utility meter and a parcel address (but the ADU gets its own unit number for emergency access)
• If your ADU uses a septic system, the county may require it to be properly sized before construction begins
• Manufactured homes, mobile homes, and RVs generally cannot serve as ADUs (with limited exceptions for larger lots)
• HOA CC&Rs may still apply — check your community's governing documents

What kinds of ADUs can Revival Contracting build in San Tan Valley?
We design and construct every type of ADU for San Tan Valley homeowners. Every project is tailored to your lot, your budget, and your goals — no prefab templates, no one-size-fits-all approach.
MOST POPULAR

• Detached backyard casita
  
  • A freestanding structure in your backyard, completely separate from the main home. Perfect for multigenerational living, long-term rental income, or hosting extended guests in style.

ATTACHED ADDITION

• Home addition ADU
  
  • Expand your home's footprint with a connected suite that has its own private entrance. Ideal for aging parents who want independence without leaving the family property.

CONVERSION

• Garage conversion
  
  • Turn a seldom-used garage into a permitted, code-compliant apartment.
    
  • One of the most cost-effective ADU paths available, using existing structure and foundation.

INTERIOR

• Interior suite conversion
  
  • Repurpose large bonus rooms, over-garage spaces, or unused square footage into a fully independent living unit — no new foundation required.

The real reasons San Tan Valley homeowners are building ADUs right now
Multigenerational living. 

San Tan Valley has always attracted families who want to stay close across generations.
An ADU lets grandparents, adult children, or other relatives live right on the property with privacy and independence — no assisted living facility, no long commutes between households.

Long-term rental income. Under Arizona and Pinal County rules, your ADU can be rented to a tenant on a long-term lease (90 days or more). With demand for rental housing in the Southeast Valley consistently strong, a well-built casita can generate meaningful monthly income while adding permanent value to your home.

Property value. A permitted, professionally built ADU is a genuine asset on your property's appraisal. Buyers increasingly seek lots with ADU potential — and a finished unit means they're paying for the improvement, not the possibility.

Larger lots. San Tan Valley's acre and half-acre lots give you the room to build a proper detached casita without crowding your yard. You don't have to squeeze a tiny structure into a tight suburban lot.
Revival Contracting designs ADUs that feel like real homes — because they are.

What to watch out for: septic systems and HOAs
Two factors are particularly important for San Tan Valley ADU projects: septic systems and HOA rules.
Many properties in San Tan Valley are not connected to a municipal sewer and rely on septic systems instead. Pinal County can require that your septic system be properly evaluated and sized before an ADU is permitted. Revival Contracting works with licensed septic professionals to assess your system early in the planning process so there are no last-minute surprises.

If your neighborhood has a homeowners association, note that Arizona state law does not override HOA CC&Rs when it comes to ADUs. Your HOA may have its own rules about secondary structures, exterior appearance, or rental use. We recommend reviewing your CC&Rs before starting design — and our team is happy to help you interpret what's there.

The Revival Contracting process for San Tan Valley ADUs
We manage the full project lifecycle, so you never have to coordinate between separate designers, permit runners, and contractors.
Our team handles everything from first sketch to final inspection.

• Free on-site consultation and ADU feasibility evaluation for your specific Pinal County lot
• Custom architectural design aligned with county code and your HOA requirements
• Complete permit application, plan submission, and county coordination
• Septic system evaluation coordination when applicable
• Full licensed and insured construction: foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and finishes
• Final inspection support and certificate of occupancy

Frequently asked questions: ADUs in San Tan Valley
Can I rent my ADU in San Tan Valley?
Yes — long-term rentals are permitted under Pinal County and state law. A long-term rental is defined as a lease of 90 days or more, or a month-to-month arrangement. Short-term vacation rental rules are governed separately by state law. Check with your HOA for any additional community-level restrictions.
Does my ADU need to match my house's exterior?
No. Under HB 2928, Pinal County cannot require your ADU to match the exterior design, roof pitch, or finishing materials of your primary home. You have flexibility in how your ADU looks, as long as it meets building code requirements.
What if my property uses a septic system?
Pinal County may require your septic system to be evaluated and properly sized before your ADU permit is issued. Revival Contracting coordinates this process for you early in the project so it doesn't delay your build.
How big can my ADU be in San Tan Valley?
Up to 1,000 square feet, or 75% of your primary home's gross floor area — whichever is smaller. The minimum allowed size is 200 square feet. On parcels of one acre or more, additional ADU options may be available if one unit qualifies as affordable housing.
How long does it take to build an ADU in San Tan Valley?
Most detached casitas take 4 to 7 months from permit approval to move-in, depending on size and complexity. Garage conversions and interior conversions are often faster. Contact Revival Contracting for an estimate based on your specific project.
Do I need my HOA's permission to build an ADU?
State law does not override HOA CC&Rs. If your community has a homeowners association, review your CC&Rs before proceeding. Revival Contracting helps clients navigate HOA requirements as part of our design and permitting process.

Ready to build an ADU on your San Tan Valley property?

Revival Contracting builds casitas, guest houses, and home additions across San Tan Valley and Pinal County.

Let's talk about what's possible on your lot — no obligation.
Get a free site consultation 

If you've been thinking about adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your Gilbert or Queen Creek home, there's never been a better time.
New Arizona law has made the process easier than ever — and Revival Contracting is ready to build it.

What is an ADU?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) — also called a casita, guest house, or in-law suite — is a self-contained living space built on the same lot as your primary home.
It has its own bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, making it a fully independent unit that adds real value and real flexibility to your property.

In the East Valley, ADUs are surging in popularity. Whether you want to house an aging parent nearby, give an adult child their own space, earn rental income from a long-term tenant, or simply add versatile square footage to your property, an ADU delivers on every front.

Gilbert & Queen Creek ADU rules: what you need to know
Arizona passed landmark legislation (HB 2720 and HB 2928) that makes it easier for single-family homeowners to build ADUs. As of 2026, these "by-right" rules are fully integrated into local codes across Gilbert, Queen Creek, and the rest of the state.

Key rules for Gilbert & Queen Creek homeowners: 
You are generally entitled to build at least one attached and one detached ADU on your single-family lot. ADUs may not exceed 75% of your primary home's square footage, or 1,000 sq ft — whichever is smaller. Side and rear setbacks are a minimum of 5 feet. Your ADU can be rented long-term (90 days or more), but cannot be used as a short-term Airbnb-style rental in Gilbert. Queen Creek requires construction plans that include foundation, framing, elevations, and materials.

If your property has an HOA, their CC&Rs may still apply — Revival Contracting can help you navigate this.

Types of ADUs Revival Contracting builds
We design and build all major ADU types for East Valley homeowners. Every project starts with your goals and your lot — not a cookie-cutter floor plan.
DETACHED

• Backyard casita
  • A freestanding structure in your backyard.
  • Maximum privacy for guests, family, or renters. The most popular ADU type in Gilbert and Queen Creek.

ATTACHED

• Home addition ADU
  • Connected to your existing home with a separate entrance.
  • Ideal for multigenerational living with easy access between the units.

GARAGE CONVERSION

• Garage conversion
  • Transform an underused garage into a livable, permitted ADU.
  • A cost-effective way to add a full apartment to your existing footprint.

INTERIOR

• Interior conversion
  • Carve out a separate suite within your existing home — bonus rooms, over-garage spaces, and large floor plans are prime candidates.

Why build an ADU in the East Valley right now?
Gilbert and Queen Creek are two of the fastest-growing communities in the entire country. Land is being absorbed quickly, and both towns attract multigenerational families looking to stay close together without living under one roof.
An ADU gives you exactly that: proximity with independence.

Beyond family use, long-term rental demand in the East Valley remains extremely strong.
A well-built ADU can generate meaningful monthly income while significantly increasing your home's appraised value — often more than the construction cost itself.

And with Arizona's new by-right laws in place, you no longer need special zoning variances or neighbor approval. If your lot is zoned residential, you have the right to build.
The Revival Contracting process
We handle every phase of your ADU project in-house — from initial design and permit drawings to foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and final inspection.
Our team is deeply familiar with Gilbert's permit system and Queen Creek's building safety requirements, which means faster approvals and fewer surprises on your project.

• Free site evaluation and ADU feasibility review
• Custom design tailored to your lot, budget, and goals
• Full permit application and plan submission management
• Licensed, insured construction from ground up or gut renovation
• Final inspections and certificate of occupancy support

Frequently asked questions about ADUs in Gilbert & Queen Creek
Can I rent my ADU in Gilbert? 
Yes — long-term rentals (leases of 90 days or more) are permitted. Short-term vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb are not allowed under Gilbert's current rules.
Do I need my HOA's approval? 
State law does not override HOA CC&Rs. If your community has an HOA, we'll help you review the relevant rules before breaking ground.
How big can my ADU be? 
Up to 1,000 sq ft, or 75% of your primary home's gross floor area — whichever is smaller. On lots over one acre, additional options may be available.
How long does an ADU take to build? 
Most detached casitas take 4–7 months from permit approval to move-in, depending on size and complexity. Garage conversions and attached ADUs can be faster.
What does an ADU cost in the East Valley? 
Costs vary based on size, type, and finishes. Contact Revival Contracting for a detailed estimate specific to your property.

Ready to add an ADU to your Gilbert or Queen Creek home?

Revival Contracting specializes in home additions and ADUs across the East Valley.

Let's talk about what's possible on your lot.
Get a free consultation

Discover why spring is the smartest season to invest in high-end home renovations, and how Revival Contracting's spring savings event helps you get more for your remodeling budget.

Every year, homeowners across the country wait until summer to start their remodeling projects — and every year, they pay more, wait longer, and compete for the same overbooked contractors. Spring is the industry's best-kept secret: contractor availability is higher, material lead times are shorter, and the work gets done before the heat of summer arrives.

At Revival Contracting, we've structured our spring savings event specifically to reward homeowners who plan ahead and invest in the luxury upgrades their homes deserve.
Whether you've been dreaming of a chef's kitchen renovation, a spa-inspired primary bathroom, or a whole-home luxury refresh, now is the time to act — and we're here to make that vision a reality.

"Spring remodels finish faster, cost less, and are ready to enjoy all summer long. That's not a coincidence — it's strategy."

Why spring is the smartest season to remodel
The luxury home remodeling market has peak seasons just like any other industry.
Summer demand surges push contractor rates up and timelines out. Fall projects rush to beat winter. But spring — particularly March through May — is the window where experienced homeowners consistently get the most value from their renovation investments.
Subcontractors are available. Specialty material orders arrive on schedule. Weather conditions are ideal for exterior work, painting, and finish installations. And when your project wraps in June or July, you get to spend the entire summer in your upgraded home rather than living through a renovation during it.

Revival Contracting's spring project calendar is filling fast — limited consultation slots remain for April and May start dates.

Spring savings: what Revival Contracting is offering
This season, Revival Contracting is passing real value back to homeowners who book their luxury remodel projects during our spring savings event.

Here's what's available:

• KITCHEN & BATH BUNDLE
  • Combined project savingsBook a kitchen and primary bath remodel together this spring and receive preferred pricing on labor and project management fees.
• FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION
  • $500 value — complimentaryAll spring bookings include a full design consultation with our in-house team, at no charge — normally a $500 service.
• PRIORITY SCHEDULING
  • Guaranteed spring startSpring bookings receive guaranteed project start dates before July 1st, with dedicated project manager assignment from day one.
• MATERIAL UPGRADE

Complimentary finish upgrades
Select projects qualify for complimentary finish tier upgrades — from standard to premium fixtures, tile, or cabinetry hardware.

Luxury home remodeling projects to prioritize this spring
Not all renovations are created equal. These are the high-impact, high-return projects our clients are prioritizing this spring — and the ones that benefit most from the longer days and favorable conditions of the season:
Luxury kitchen renovation
Custom cabinetry, waterfall islands, professional appliances, and designer tile — the most-requested luxury remodel category with strong ROI.
Spa primary bathroom
Freestanding soaking tubs, walk-in steam showers, heated floors, and bespoke vanities that transform your bathroom into a private sanctuary.
Primary suite addition
Expand your master bedroom with a custom walk-in closet, built-in storage systems, and curated lighting design.
Whole-home refresh
Cohesive flooring throughout, fresh millwork and trim, updated lighting plans, and paint — a full-home transformation without structural work.
Entryway & foyer design
First impressions matter. Custom built-ins, statement lighting, wainscoting, and premium tile make an immediate impact on your home's character.
Home office & library
Floor-to-ceiling built-in bookshelves, custom desk millwork, acoustic panels, and designer lighting for a workspace that inspires.
The luxury remodeling process at Revival Contracting
One of the most common questions we hear is: "What does working with a luxury contractor actually look like?"
Here's what you can expect when you book your spring project with Revival Contracting:

• Design consultation (week 1)We meet at your home, discuss your vision, lifestyle needs, and budget parameters. Our team assesses the space and begins concept development.
• Design & material selection (weeks 2–3)We present design concepts, 3D renderings, and curated material selections. You refine and approve the plan before any work begins.
• Permitting & procurement (weeks 3–5)Revival Contracting handles all permitting, subcontractor coordination, and material ordering — so you don't have to manage a single vendor.
• Construction & installationOur crews work to a detailed project schedule with daily progress updates. Your dedicated project manager is reachable throughout the build.
• Final walkthrough & handoff
• We conduct a white-glove final walkthrough, address any punch list items, and hand you a fully completed space — on time, on budget.

What does a luxury home remodel cost in 2025?
Luxury remodeling investment ranges vary widely based on scope, materials, and project complexity.
Here's a general framework to help set expectations for high-end home renovation costs in 2025:
A luxury kitchen renovation typically ranges from $75,000–$200,000+, depending on custom cabinetry, appliance packages, and structural changes. A spa-level primary bathroom remodel runs $40,000–$120,000. A whole-home luxury refresh — covering flooring, trim, paint, lighting, and built-ins — can range from $80,000 to $250,000+ depending on square footage and finish tier.
Revival Contracting's spring savings event helps qualified projects achieve more within your budget through bundled pricing, complimentary design services, and finish upgrade opportunities. The best way to understand your project's investment is through a personalized consultation — which is currently complimentary for all spring bookings.
How to maximize your spring remodeling budget
Getting the most from your home renovation investment comes down to a few key decisions. First, prioritize projects with the highest return on investment — kitchens and primary bathrooms consistently top that list, with average ROI ranges of 60–80% at resale.
Second, bundle related projects when possible: combining a kitchen and adjacent dining room refresh, for example, reduces mobilization costs and creates a more cohesive result.
Third — and most importantly — partner with a contractor who treats your home as their own.

At Revival Contracting, every decision we recommend is grounded in what's genuinely best for your home's value, functionality, and long-term quality. That's the difference between a luxury renovation and a costly one.

Spring spots are filling — secure yours today

Book your complimentary design consultation with Revival Contracting this spring and receive $500 in design services free, plus access to exclusive spring pricing on select luxury remodeling projects.

Book a free consultation 

High-end backyard remodeling ideas, design trends, and what to expect when investing in an outdoor renovation with Revival Contracting.

Your backyard is more than just a patch of grass — it's untapped potential waiting to become your personal outdoor retreat. Whether you're dreaming of a resort-style pool, a custom outdoor kitchen, or a fully landscaped entertainment area, luxury backyard remodeling is one of the highest-return investments a homeowner can make.
At Revival Contracting, we specialize in high-end outdoor renovations that blend stunning aesthetics with lasting craftsmanship.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the most sought-after backyard remodel ideas, what separates a standard renovation from a truly luxury outdoor living space, and how to plan your project from concept to completion.
"A well-designed backyard doesn't just add curb appeal — it adds thousands in home value and years of daily enjoyment."

What Is Luxury Backyard Remodeling?

• Luxury backyard remodeling goes beyond laying new sod or adding a patio. It's a comprehensive outdoor living renovation that considers every element — from the layout and hardscaping to lighting, water features, and smart technology integration.
• High-end outdoor remodels are custom-designed around your lifestyle, your home's architecture, and your long-term vision.

Homeowners searching for custom backyard designs increasingly want spaces that feel like an extension of their interior — cohesive, functional, and beautiful year-round.
Top Luxury Backyard Features to Consider

• Here are the most popular elements our clients at Revival Contracting incorporate into their high-end backyard renovations:
• Custom Pools & Spas
  • Infinity-edge pools, heated spas, and resort-style water features that become the focal point of your outdoor space.
• Outdoor Kitchens
  • Built-in grills, pizza ovens, refrigeration, and bar seating — perfect for year-round entertaining and al fresco dining.
• Fire Features
  • Custom fire pits, linear fireplaces, and fire-and-water combination features for ambiance and warmth.
• Landscape Design
  • Mature plantings, privacy hedges, artificial turf, and professional grading to create a lush, polished environment.
• Outdoor Lighting
  • Architectural lighting, pathway illumination, and smart lighting systems that set the mood after dark.
• Pergolas & Shade Structures
  • Custom pergolas, louvered roof systems, and covered patios that extend your usable outdoor hours.

Hardscaping: The Foundation of a Luxury Outdoor Space
Luxury hardscaping is the backbone of any high-end backyard design. This includes patios, walkways, retaining walls, and outdoor flooring — all crafted from premium materials like natural travertine, large-format porcelain pavers, flagstone, or poured concrete with decorative finishes.
The best backyard patio remodels integrate seamlessly with your home's architecture.
Our team at Revival Contracting ensures every edge, joint, and surface meets the precision standards you'd expect from a luxury build. Proper grading and drainage are also built into every project — because a beautiful patio that floods isn't a luxury, it's a liability.

Outdoor Kitchens: The Heart of Backyard Entertaining
Demand for custom outdoor kitchens has surged in recent years, and it's easy to see why. A fully equipped outdoor kitchen — complete with professional-grade appliances, stone countertops, and integrated cabinetry — turns your backyard into a premier entertainment destination.
Popular upgrades include built-in smokers and pizza ovens, refrigerated drawers, outdoor-rated cabinetry in stainless steel or teak, and dedicated wet bars. When paired with a covered pergola or motorized louvered roof, your outdoor kitchen renovation becomes a true four-season investment.
Pool & Spa Additions: Resort Living in Your Own Backyard
Nothing signals luxury quite like a custom pool. Whether you're considering a sleek geometric pool with glass tile accents, a naturalistic lagoon with waterfalls and grottos, or a compact plunge pool for smaller lots, custom pool installation is one of the most transformative backyard upgrades available.
Pair your pool with a heated spa or swim-up bar seating, and you've created an experience that rivals any five-star resort. Revival Contracting coordinates the full scope — excavation, shell, tile, coping, decking, equipment, and surrounding landscape — so every element works in harmony.
Smart Outdoor Technology
Today's luxury backyard remodels increasingly incorporate smart technology. Automated irrigation systems, app-controlled lighting, motorized shade structures, outdoor audio systems, and integrated pool management apps are now standard features in premium outdoor builds.
These systems aren't just convenient — they protect your investment.
Smart irrigation prevents overwatering and runoff. Automated lighting systems extend the life of your fixtures. And remote monitoring for pool chemistry keeps your water pristine with minimal effort.

How Much Does a Luxury Backyard Remodel Cost?
The cost of a high-end backyard renovation varies significantly based on scope, materials, and lot complexity. Entry-level luxury projects — think a new patio with an outdoor kitchen and landscape lighting — typically start around $40,000–$80,000. Full-scale transformations including a custom pool, outdoor kitchen, fire features, and complete landscape design can range from $150,000 to $400,000+.
The good news? A well-executed luxury backyard remodel routinely returns 60–80% of its cost in added home value, while delivering immediate, daily lifestyle benefits that are difficult to put a price on.
Why Choose Revival Contracting for Your Backyard Remodel?
At Revival Contracting, we approach every outdoor living renovation as a long-term partnership. From your initial design consultation through the final walkthrough, our team manages every detail — permitting, subcontractors, material procurement, and quality control — so your project is completed on time, on budget, and beyond your expectations.
We serve homeowners seeking the best in backyard remodeling contractors who combine creative design with meticulous execution. Our portfolio spans resort-style pool builds, complete outdoor kitchen installations, and full backyard transformations — each one custom-designed for the client and their home.

Ready to Reimagine Your Backyard?

Schedule a free design consultation with Revival Contracting and let's bring your luxury outdoor living vision to life.
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