100% custom tailored to your site, setting, & vision.
Why you might consider an ADU:
- Aging Parents
- College Student/Graduate
- Office Space
- Guest Suite/Pool House
- Increase Your Property Value (and add some cash to your pocket!)
What is an ADU? A JADU? What's the difference?
Explore the differences between ADU types and the rules and regulations that govern their construction.
Your first steps (you have Homework!):
- Download (and read) the California ADU Handbook from California Housing & Community Development (governing board for ADU's). Navigate to the search bar and enter: "ADU Handbook". Why not a direct link? The ADU handbook is constantly updated and we don't want to provide an outdated link.
- Download the ADU Handbook from your local Building or Planning department. Once at your local site, navigate to the search bar and enter: "ADU Handbook". This handbook will contain ADU information, rules, and regulations specific to the area in which you live.
- Obtain a copy of your title report. This report would have been included in your home purchase documents, or can be purchased from any one of the numerous online sources. A simple title report including any easements is all that is required.
- Request or apply for a copy of your existing building plans from your local Building or Planning department (including septic system plans, if applicable). This can be a lengthily process involving release forms that must be signed by the homeowner (you) and the Architect of record.
- Have a Feasibility Study performed. Why you should consider this.
- To Survey or Not to Survey? If your property has irregular shape, challenging terrain, unclear boundaries, a slope, or substantial vegetation, landscaping, or hardscaping, a survey may be necessary to provide an accurate site plan. Most municipalities now require a survey as part of the ADU application process to ensure precise placement within the permitted area. The cost of a survey typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000 and may take several weeks to months to schedule.
- Have the existing condition of your sewer line or septic system assessed. You don't want to discover that serious (and expensive) sewer or septic repairs are required after your project has begun. We will use data discovered during these assessments in our feasibility report to determine where the ADU sewer lateral will connect to the house lateral, if the house sewer lateral is of a sufficient depth to accommodate the ADU (if not, a pump will be required), and use the information provided in the septic evaluation to provide an estimated line item cost to expand the existing septic system or install a new independent septic system for the ADU if necessary.
- Information that must be included in these reports:
- Depth of sewer lateral at back of sidewalk, back of curb, or edge of pavement.
- Sewer lateral size and material.
- Condition and expected service life of existing sewer lateral
- Septic system condition, capacity, & expected service life.
- A copy of your HOA Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions will be required (if applicable).
What is a Feasibility Study and why is it important to have one?
A great ADU design is awesome, however, it's awesomeness doesn't matter if the ADU's cost to build is more than you have in your budget. Conducting a Feasibility Study is essential to identify potential financial constraints early in the process. Without this step, you may find yourself committed to a design and engineering investment that later requires costly and challenging modifications. Building an ADU involves more than simply constructing a small structure in your backyard; it involves complying with numerous specific rules and regulations unique to ADUs. Failing to consider these requirements during the early design phase can result in unexpected delays, increased costs, and unnecessary complications. Addressing these details upfront promotes a smoother permitting process, reduces change orders, and facilitates an efficient construction experience.
A great ADU design is awesome, however, it's awesomeness doesn't matter if the ADU's cost to build is more than you have in your budget. Conducting a Feasibility Study is essential to identify potential financial constraints early in the process. Without this step, you may find yourself committed to a design and engineering investment that later requires costly and challenging modifications. Building an ADU involves more than simply constructing a small structure in your backyard; it involves complying with numerous specific rules and regulations unique to ADUs. Failing to consider these requirements during the early design phase can result in unexpected delays, increased costs, and unnecessary complications. Addressing these details upfront promotes a smoother permitting process, reduces change orders, and facilitates an efficient construction experience.
Contact:
Office: Napa, CA
Hours: Weekdays 8:00AM to 5:00PM
Office: Napa, CA
Hours: Weekdays 8:00AM to 5:00PM