Serving CA, WA, OR, and GA.
Schedule a free appointment with one of our ADU experts.
Book a callAn Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. ADUs can be detached, attached, or even converted spaces within the main home, like a basement or garage. They offer flexibility in living arrangements, making them an attractive option for homeowners.
Renting out your ADU can provide a steady stream of passive income.
An ADU can significantly increase the overall value of your property.
Whether for aging parents, adult children, or guests, ADUs offer versatile housing solutions.
With the rising demand for affordable housing, ADUs have gained traction as a viable solution. They allow homeowners to maximize their property's potential while contributing to the local housing supply.
Building an ADU involves several stages, each with its own set of tasks and timelines. Let's break down the process into manageable steps:
The first step is to consult with a designer who will assess your site, identify any challenges, and create a floor plan for your ADU. This phase includes measuring the site, structural calculations, and preparing permit application documents.
Discuss your vision, budget, and timeline with a professional.
Evaluate the property's topography, soil conditions, and existing structures.
Create detailed drawings and structural calculations.
This phase may take longer if your property requires a soil report or clarification of property lines.
Once the design is finalized, the next step is to obtain the necessary permits. This can be a time-consuming process, especially in areas with stringent regulations.
Submit the required documents to local authorities.
The city will review your plans and may request revisions.
Once approved, you can proceed to the next stage.
Factors affecting this timeline include the complexity of the project and the availability of city resources.
After obtaining permits, the site must be prepared for construction. This involves clearing obstructions, excavating, and installing the foundation.
Remove any debris, trees, or existing structures.
Lay the groundwork for your ADU's structure.
Connect water, electricity, and sewage lines.
The duration of this phase depends on the site's conditions and topography.
The construction phase is the most time-intensive part of the process. It involves building the ADU from the ground up, including framing, roofing, and interior work.
Build the ADU's structure and install the roof.
Complete plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
Install fixtures, flooring, and appliances.
Various factors, such as weather conditions and availability of materials, can impact this timeline.
If you opt for a prefabricated ADU, the installation process is quick and efficient.
Deliver the prefabricated unit to your site.
Hook up the ADU to existing utility lines.
Ensure everything is up to code and ready for occupancy.
Installation is typically completed within a day, minimizing disruption.
Several variables can influence how long it takes to build an ADU. Understanding these factors can help you plan more effectively.
The complexity of your ADU's design plays a significant role in determining the timeline. Custom designs with unique features or advanced technology will take longer to complete than standard plans.
Custom designs require more time for planning and approval.
Challenging topography or soil conditions may extend the design phase.
Working with an experienced design team can help streamline this process.
Different cities and regions have varying regulations for ADU construction. Understanding these rules is crucial for a smooth project.
Some areas have strict zoning laws that can delay the process.
Multiple permits may be required, adding to the timeline.
Homeowners Associations may have additional requirements.
Starting the review process early can help mitigate delays.
Your property's existing utilities may need upgrades to support the new ADU. This can add time and cost to the project.
Ensure your septic system can handle the additional load.
Older systems may need to be upgraded.
Necessary for public property work like repaving driveways or installing power lines.
Researching utility requirements upfront can save time.
Availability of materials can significantly impact your construction timeline. Ordering materials early can help avoid delays.
Custom materials take longer to source.
Global supply chain disruptions can cause delays.
Using local suppliers can speed up delivery times.
Consulting with your designer about material availability can help plan accordingly.
Real-life examples can provide valuable insights into the ADU construction process. Let's look at a couple of case studies to understand the timeline, challenges, and solutions.
A detached ADU in Los Angeles with a custom design.
Design (4 months), Permitting (6 months), Construction (8 months)
Complex site conditions and multiple permit requirements.
Engaged an experienced design team and started the permitting process early.
A prefabricated ADU in San Francisco with a standard design.
Design (2 months), Permitting (4 months), Construction (5 months)
Limited space and utility upgrades.
Used local suppliers for materials and planned utility upgrades early.
These case studies highlight the importance of planning and working with experienced professionals to ensure a smooth ADU construction process.
Speeding up the ADU construction process without compromising quality is possible with the right approach. Here are some actionable tips:
Having a clear vision and maintaining open communication with your designer can prevent delays.
Clearly outline your expectations and requirements.
Keep in touch with your designer and contractor to stay informed.
Make decisions promptly to avoid delays.
Researching early can help you anticipate and address potential issues.
Understand your property's utility needs and plan upgrades.
Know what permits you'll need and start the process early.
Consult with your designer about material lead times.
Opting for standard designs and using local suppliers can speed up the process.
Choose designs that are pre-approved by local authorities.
Source materials locally to reduce delivery times.
Stick to standard sizes and materials to avoid delays.
Building an ADU is a rewarding but complex process that requires careful planning and coordination. Understanding the timeline and factors that can affect construction time is crucial for a successful project.
By following the steps outlined in this blog post and considering the tips for faster construction, you can streamline your ADU project and enjoy the benefits sooner.
For those looking to get started, consulting with experienced professionals can make a significant difference. Get a quote for your ADU project
Not sure where to start with your ADU project?
Explore your ADU possibilities with Gather.
