
Create a private, comfortable living area for family, guests, or rental income with expert ADU construction.
At Upgrade Handyman Service, we build Accessory Dwelling Units for homeowners who need more usable space without leaving the home they love. An ADU can give you a private place for family, a comfortable guest suite, space for a caregiver, or a way to create rental income. We focus on well-built, code-aware projects that add function, privacy, and long-term value to your property.
We are a veteran-owned company based in Spencer, MA, and we work with residential homeowners across Worcester County and surrounding towns. Since 2017, we have built our name on professional service, honest pricing, and solid craftsmanship. We are not the cheapest option, and that is by design. ADUs are major construction projects, and they need to be planned and built the right way from the start.
An accessory dwelling unit is a separate living space located on the same property as your main home. Depending on your layout and local requirements, an ADU may be attached to the house, created within existing space, or designed as a detached structure. Many homeowners come to us because they want more flexibility from their property without the cost and stress of moving.
Every property is different, so we tailor the project to your goals, lot conditions, and budget. We can help with the construction side of the project and guide you through what the build may involve. ADU work often overlaps with full remodeling and space conversion, which fits well with our experience in larger residential projects like kitchens, bathrooms, and basement finishing.
Typical ADU work may include:
A good ADU should feel like a real home, not an afterthought. We pay close attention to layout, storage, natural light, traffic flow, and the small details that improve daily living. That includes clean finish work, practical room sizes, durable materials, and smart use of every square foot. We also understand the importance of privacy for both the main house and the new living space.
Because the owner spent about 10 years as a nurse before starting this business, we bring a practical, people-first mindset to the work. That matters on ADU projects, especially when the new space is meant for aging parents, recovering family members, caregivers, or multi-generational households. We think about comfort, access, safety, and ease of use, not just appearance.
ADUs are not simple handyman jobs. They are serious residential construction projects that need proper oversight. We hold a Massachusetts Construction Supervisor License and Massachusetts Home Improvement Contractor registration. We also bring energy and code knowledge through RESNET HERS, IECC/HERS compliance, and ICC residential energy inspection and plan review credentials. That background helps us build spaces that are more efficient, more comfortable, and more aligned with current residential standards.
Licenses include:
Most ADU projects start with an on-site estimate so we can see the property, understand your goals, and talk through the best path forward. We do on-site estimates for most projects because these larger builds need real measurements and real discussion. Once the scope is approved, we collect a 30% deposit up front, which is the Massachusetts state limit, and then schedule the job.
During the project, we focus on communication, scheduling, and respect for your home. We show up when we say we will, keep the work area as clean as possible, and aim to get the job done right the first time. If your ADU is being built as part of a larger remodel, we can also help align that work with related upgrades to kitchens, baths, windows, doors, or finished lower-level spaces.
Homeowners call us when they want more than a quick patch job. They want a contractor who takes the project seriously and treats the home with respect. We are a small, owner-led company, which means you get direct communication and accountability from start to finish. Our reputation matters because we serve our own community here in Central Massachusetts.
We proudly serve homeowners in Spencer, Worcester, Charlton, Paxton, Holden, East Brookfield, Brookfield, West Brookfield, North Brookfield, Sturbridge, Rutland, Shrewsbury, Leicester, Auburn, Millbury, Grafton, and nearby communities. If you are thinking about adding an accessory dwelling unit and want straight answers about design, construction, costs, and next steps, we are ready to talk.
If you want to create comfortable, private living space for family, guests, or rental income, call Upgrade Handyman Service at (508) 365-8151. You can also reach out through our website form to schedule an estimate. We would be glad to look at your property, discuss your goals, and help you plan an ADU that adds real value to your home.
We start with an on-site visit to review your property, talk through layout, privacy, rental goals, and utility needs, and confirm what makes sense for your home. You get clear guidance, a realistic scope, and a straightforward estimate, with a 30% deposit only after approval as required by Massachusetts law.
Next, we map out the ADU build with a focus on structure, insulation, windows, doors, egress, and energy-code compliance. As a licensed Massachusetts contractor with HIC, CSL, and energy inspection credentials, we plan the job carefully, set a practical timeline, and coordinate each phase to avoid surprises.
Once scheduled, we complete the build with steady communication, respectful jobsite practices, and close attention to finish quality. We protect your home, keep the work area clean, and finish with a final walkthrough to review details, answer questions, and make sure your new living space is ready to use.
Common questions homeowners ask us about planning, pricing, permits, and building an ADU in Worcester County.
An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a separate living space added to your property. It can be built as an in-law suite, guest space, backyard cottage, garage apartment, or attached addition, depending on your lot and local rules. Many homeowners use ADUs for aging parents, adult children, long-term guests, or rental income. We help you look at your space, goals, and budget to see if an ADU makes sense for your home.
Yes. ADUs need to meet local zoning, building code, and permit requirements, and that can feel overwhelming if you have never done this before. We guide you through the process and help make sure the work is done to current standards. Upgrade Handyman Service is licensed in Massachusetts, including a Construction Supervisor License and MA HIC registration, so you can feel confident your project is being handled professionally.
ADU cost depends on the size, layout, site conditions, utility connections, finishes, and whether the unit is attached or detached. Because every property is different, we usually need an on-site visit to give you an accurate price. We believe in fair, transparent pricing with no bait-and-switch. Once you approve the proposal, we collect a 30% deposit up front, which is the Massachusetts state limit, and then schedule the job.
Most ADU projects take time because they involve planning, permits, framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation, finishes, and inspections. The exact timeline depends on the scope of work and the approval process in your town. During your estimate, we will talk through the expected schedule and what can affect timing, so you know what to expect before work begins. We show up when we say we will and keep communication clear from start to finish.
We are a veteran-owned company based in Spencer, serving homeowners across Worcester County since 2017. Our business focuses on larger residential improvement projects like ADUs, kitchens, bathrooms, basement remodeling, decks, and windows and doors. We are not the cheapest option, and that is intentional. We focus on solid craftsmanship, honest pricing, clear communication, and respectful service. We treat your home carefully, keep the work area clean, and stand behind doing the job right the first time.
The first step is to call us at (508) 365-8151 or reach out through our website form. We handle most estimates with an on-site visit so we can understand your property, your goals, and any access or layout challenges. From there, we will talk through options, answer your questions, and provide clear next steps. If you are thinking about adding private living space to your home in Spencer or anywhere in Worcester County, contact Upgrade Handyman Service today to book your estimate.
Real feedback on quality work, clear pricing, and a job done right the first time
"Max was very responsive, arrived on time, listened to all my requests/concerns, and did a great job!!!"
"I have used Upgrade multiple times and am calling them again now for my next kitchen and bath floor, in Spencer. Work is quality, always done ontime and as promised at reasonable rates. Hire a veteran... you can trust them, I find."
"Great work and super fast response time!"
"If you need a "handyman," then Max is the guy for you. He came to our door recently and asked if we needed our dryer vents cleaned. We did and he did the job quickly for a decent price. We then asked if he could install a glass storm door for us. He went to work and, without any extra charge, did in minutes a job that takes us a frustratingly long time to complete. We plan to draw up a list of other things we need done and give Max a call. He's professional, personable and does the job right."
"Veteran owned, very professional, fair priced."
"I am very pleased with the front porch step replacement. Max did an excellent job. I will definitely call him again for repairs or replacements for the house."
"Does great work! Everything came out awesome!"
"Always provides excellent service and communication. 10/10 would recommend reaching out for your flooring/painting needs."
"Great Job, very professional, would recommend."
"Had upgrade floor and paint do a vinyl floor install, paint the walls and trim. Couldn't be happier!! The crew was very professional and completed the job in a timely manner. Highly recommended!!!"
"They do a great job!"
"I have not personally used this company but my friend that I have went to his house frequently and the change that I saw had me astonished and I asked for the company and wanted to share it."
"I can't say enough good things about Upgrade Floor & Paint! Max, the owner, is a great guy, who takes pride in everything he does. He goes above and beyond & really cares about customer service, quality work & good communication. He replaced a floor & painted a unit in our investment property & we are thrilled. The floor looks spectacular as does the color he suggested. If you're looking for an honest hard working contractor you can't go wrong with Max and Upgrade Floor & Paint!"
"Phenomenal"
"Fast responses and great to work with!"
"They did a great job and were extremely efficient"
"The Upgrade Floor & Paint crew is friendly, knowledgeable, and does great work. Would absolutely recommend!"
"I hired Upgrade Paint & Floor to lay some LVP flooring in the multi family building we manage. They were responsive, efficient, and did a 10/10 job. Max is very knowledgeable in his trade and I would trust him with any project, big or small."
"Service was great!"
"I hired Upgrade for a fix in the vinyl plank flooring when I bought my new home. He was efficient and followed the timeline we set, and the job was well done. I’d highly recommend this company."
"Upgrade floor & paint recently upgraded my basement laundry room. From the initial phone call to the final product I couldn't have asked for a better company to work with, highly recommend!!"
"Great company run by a great guy Max"
"Knowledgeable and professional! Superior results, very happy with our choice, highly recommend 👍🏼"
"Excellent experience, knowledge quality and attention to detail are top notch !"
"Great company, does great work and has fair pricing! Will call back for any future work!"
"I highly recommend Upgrade Floor and Paint for their professionalism and the quality job they performed in my home installing a new floor. Thet arrived on time, ready and prepared to start and finish the job."
"Our experience with Upgrade Floor & Paint exceeded expectations. We used them in our new build construction and would recommend them to anyone! They took the time to understand my vision for each room and recommended flooring solutions that perfectly complemented my style and practical needs."
"They do a very good job here"
"Very professional and excellent final product."
"My kitchen cabinets started to pull away from the wall and I was panicking. I messaged Max from Upgrade Floor & Paint. He got back to me in less than 5 minutes, asked for some photos of the issue and was able to come out the very next day to fix this issue. Thankfully he came so quick because they were about to fall off the wall! I mentioned a loose banister and loose step while he was here and he also fixed those for me. His work was great, he was friendly and even my kitten loved in. I’ll definitely be calling him in the future when we’re ready to repaint!"
"Very hard working and professional I would definitely use them again!!"
Add private living space with trusted craftsmanship—call today to secure your spot on our schedule.