About American Builder

Building better ADUs in Los Angeles since 2014

A licensed general contractor focused entirely on ADU design, permits, and construction.

Our Story

A team that lives and works in LA

American Builder Construction Company was founded in 2014 by Michael Vargas with a simple goal: make ADU construction in Los Angeles transparent, predictable, and high quality. After a decade in residential construction across the LA basin, Michael saw too many homeowners burned by vague estimates, permit delays, and uneven workmanship.

Today we’re a team of 15 — project managers, a licensed architect, superintendents, and trusted subcontractor crews — building 25–35 ADUs per year. We work exclusively on ADUs, JADUs, garage conversions, and the design/permit work that makes them possible.

Our mission is straightforward: every ADU we hand over should add real value to the property, pass inspection cleanly, and look great a decade from now.

Licenses & Certifications

Fully licensed, bonded, and insured

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Projects Completed

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Years in Business

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Sq.Ft. Built

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Permits Obtained

Our Team

The people who'll build your ADU

Michael founded American Builder in 2014 after a decade in residential construction across Los Angeles. With a background in structural engineering and hands-on site management, he oversees every project from initial consultation to final handover. Michael is a licensed General Contractor (CSLB) and a recognized advocate for ADU-friendly policy in the city of Los Angeles. Outside of work, he’s a lifelong Eagles fan and a weekend hiker in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Michael Vargas

Founder & General Contractor · CSLB Licensed

Rachel brings eight years of construction project management to every build she oversees. She coordinates schedules, subcontractors, and city inspections with a precision her clients appreciate — and keeps communication clear and consistent from day one. Rachel has managed over 60 ADU projects across LA County and hasn’t missed a final inspection yet.

Rachel Nguyen

Project Manager

Alex handles all architectural drawings, energy compliance reports (Title 24), and permit submissions for American Builder. A licensed architect with over 12 years of residential design experience in California, he knows exactly what the city wants — and how to get approvals done right the first time. Alex specializes in maximizing livable space within ADU size limits.

Alex Kim, AIA

Licensed Architect · Design & Permits

Danny runs day-to-day operations on every active job site. With 15 years of hands-on construction experience — framing, plumbing rough-in, drywall, finish work — he’s the person making sure the crew stays on schedule and the quality stays high. Clients often mention Danny by name in their reviews; he takes personal pride in every unit that gets built.

Danny Flores

Lead Superintendent

Jennifer is usually the first voice you hear when you contact American Builder. She handles initial consultations, prepares detailed written estimates, and guides homeowners through the early decisions — budget, timeline, ADU type. With a background in real estate and interior design, she helps clients see the full picture of what their project can become.

Jennifer Santos

Client Relations & Estimating

(818) 335-5500