BUILDING YOUR FIRST ADU: A SIMPLE CHECKLIST

Everything You Need to Know to Get Started with Confidence

WHAT IS AN ADU? 

An ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a small home built on your property. It can be a separate backyard house, a converted garage, or even a space inside your main home. ADUs are perfect for renting out, creating a home office, or giving family members their own private space. They also add value to your property. 

STEP 1: PLAN YOUR ADU 

Start by asking yourself why you're building one. Is it for extra income? A place for parents or kids? A home office? Knowing this will guide your decisions on design and cost. 

Then decide what type of ADU fits best: 

- Detached (backyard house) 

- Attached (connected to your home) 

- Conversion (like a garage or basement) 

- Junior ADU (a small unit inside your home) 

STEP 2: KNOW YOUR PROPERTY RULES 

Check what your city allows. Every city has its own rules about where and how big your ADU can be. You'll need to know: 

- Zoning and setbacks (how close to the property line you can build) 

- Size limits 

- Parking requirements 

- If you need to live on the property 

It's also smart to check with your HOA and talk to your neighbors early. 

STEP 3: SET A BUDGET 

Building an ADU costs money, so it's important to plan ahead. 

- Hard costs: construction, materials, and labor 

- Soft costs: permits, design fees, utility hookups 

Don't forget to save extra (10-20%) for surprise costs. 

You can pay with savings, use home equity, or get a loan. 

STEP 4: DESIGN & HIRE HELP 

Choose how you want to build: 

- Prefab (delivered and assembled) 

- Custom-built (built from scratch on your lot) 

Hire a professional who knows local ADU rules. A designer or design-build company will help turn your ideas into real plans. 

STEP 5: GET A PERMIT 

Once your plans are ready, you or your designer will submit them to the city for approval. This can take 2-6 months. After approval, your contractor can start building. 

READY TO BUILD? 

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