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Custom ADU

Dream It, Then Build It With Expert ADU Contractors

The difference between the home you have and the one you want begins with an accessory dwelling unit.

What is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a self-contained living space located on the same property as a primary residence. ADUs provide independent living facilities, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, offering flexible housing solutions for families, guests, or rental purposes

Detached:
A standalone living space built separately from the main house—think cozy backyard cottage or charming granny flat. This setup offers increased square footage and a clear separation from your primary residence, providing privacy and versatility. Detached ADUs are a smart way to maximize your property’s potential while maintaining the comfort and privacy of your main home.

Basement or Garage Conversions:
Conversions offer a smart way to maximize your home’s existing footprint. By repurposing underutilized areas, you can create functional living spaces equipped with amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. This approach not only adds valuable square footage but also enhances the versatility of your home. Before starting a conversion, it’s essential to consider factors like insulation, ventilation, and compliance with local building codes. Proper planning ensures a comfortable and legal living space.

Junior ADU:
Imagine transforming that underused corner of your home into a charming little hideaway. Enter the Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU)—the pint-sized powerhouse of home additions. With a maximum of 500 sq ft, it’s like the studio apartment’s adorable cousin. Perfect for guests, in-laws, or that art studio you’ve always dreamed of. So, if you’re looking to add a dash of charm and functionality to your home, a JADU might just be your next favorite project!

ADU Design / Build Process

1. Initial Site Visit: 1 to 1 ½ hrs

Every ADU starts with a vision, and this starts with a walkthrough to see what you have and understand what you want. By listening closely to your goals, vision, questions, and budget, we help you unlock the full potential of your ADU. With so many creative ways to configure compact spaces, whether it is a rental, guest suite, or a small home, it all starts with understanding how you want to live.

Step 1 – What To Expect

On site walkthrough to evaluate the starting point and discuss the overall goals of the project.
We provide a free ballpark construction cost, which will be a significant range.
This ballpark helps us understand if a client’s budget aligns with our estimated construction cost.
To proceed, we sign our preconstruction agreement (PCA), which includes the various services you will need to design and ultimately acquire the building permits.

2. Design & Material Selection: 3 - 4 weeks

Once the vision is clear, the design process brings it to life on paper. From countertops to cabinet layout to lighting, we’ll plan each detail with precision. A thorough design phase is key to staying on budget. Also, it’s often the fun part!

Consultations for all project goals and design considerations.
Some common design goals include careful attention around kitchen and bathroom design, lighting options, fixture selections, as well as exterior hardscape and landscape. The contractor creates an all inclusive list of all project selections for client review and interaction. This single tool will be used to guide the project to the finish line.

3. Permitting: 2 - 3 months

Once the design is complete, it’s time to submit the plans to the city for approval. Approval time for an ADU can vary, but generally this will take around 2 – 3 months to get approved. The good news is that you can still keep the project moving! While most product selections will have already been considered, this is the time to actually start finalizing selections and shopping for items. Top on that list will often be key components for kitchen and bathroom, flooring, appliances, and fixtures.

4. Construction: 4 - 8 months

Finally, our team begins by carefully protecting your home and the surrounding areas. For attached ADUs, we install dust barriers with zipper doors and run HEPA air filtration to keep the air clean and the rest of your home undisturbed. Floor protection and other precautionary measures are also put in place. A dedicated team and project manager will carry out the work in coordination with the residents, with clear working hours established from the start.

5. Move In!

Upon passing our city final inspection, we will then do a thorough walkthrough, to ensure everything is just right. We will also provide and go over all of your new documentation, including manuals, warranties, etc., as well as provide a long term maintenance plan to help you make sure your ADU stays beautiful for years to come!

What’s the first step if I’m considering building an ADU or converting part of my home?

Most projects start with a consultation or feasibility review. We assess your lot, existing structures, access, and zoning to help determine what’s possible under your city’s ADU ordinances.

How long does it take to design and build an AD from start to finish?

Timelines vary based on permitting, design complexity, and construction type. On average, expect 3 to 4 months for design and permits, and another 4 to 8 months for construction.

Can I build an ADU on my property even if I have a small lot or a hillside site?

In many cases, the answer is yes, especially with new state regulations that have loosened restrictions and made ADUs easier to build. We begin with a site and zoning analysis to determine what is possible on your specific property.

What if I am not ready to build but still want to start the design process?

That is a common approach. Starting early allows you to clarify your goals, understand costs, and know exactly what you are building.

Do I need to upgrade utilities like electrical, gas and water?

Yes. PG&E now requires a dedicated electrical meter for all newly constructed ADUs, even if one already exists on the property. A new electrical service will be a significant part of your project though, so we recommend starting utility coordination early to avoid delays during permitting or construction.

New gas depends on several factors, and a new water meter is not required by EBMUD for an ADU on a single family lot.