ADU accessory dwelling unit

{{whyLabel}}: Choosing the right type (Detached, Attached, Conversion, or Junior ADU) dictates your budget and legal constraints.

{{howLabel}}:

• Evaluate a Detached ADU for maximum privacy or a JADU (under 500 sq ft) for lower fees.
• Decide if the goal is rental income, multi-generational living, or a home office.
• Read 'Backdoor Revolution' by Kol Peterson for the definitive guide on ADU development strategies.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have selected one specific ADU type for your project.

{{whyLabel}}: Zoning determines the 'legal' possibility of your build before you spend money on designs.

{{howLabel}}:

• Check for State Preemption (e.g., CA, WA, OR) which often overrides local bans on ADUs.
• Confirm 4-foot side and rear setbacks and maximum height limits (usually 16-25 ft).
• Use your city's online GIS portal to check for easements or protected zones on your lot.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a written confirmation or map showing your buildable area.

{{whyLabel}}: ADU projects take 6–18 months; planning backwards ensures you meet critical deadlines like school starts or lease endings.

{{howLabel}}:

• Set a Target Move-In Date.
• Subtract 6 months for construction and 4 months for permitting/design.
• Mark the Permit Submission as your first major 'hard' deadline.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A calendar exists with a clear start date and move-in milestone.

{{whyLabel}}: Underestimating 'Soft Costs' (permits, design) is the #1 reason ADU projects stall.

{{howLabel}}:

• Allocate 15-25% for Soft Costs ($15k–$30k for architecture and permits).
• Estimate Hard Costs at $300–$500 per sq ft for mid-range finishes.
• Include a 20% contingency fund for utility upgrades (e.g., new electrical panels).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a spreadsheet with a total estimated cost and a 20% buffer.

{{whyLabel}}: Most homeowners use home equity; securing this early prevents construction delays.

{{howLabel}}:

• Apply for a HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) for flexibility.
• Explore Construction-to-Permanent loans if you have low equity.
• Check for local ADU Grant Programs (some cities offer up to $40k for low-income rentals).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: You have a pre-approval letter or funds in a dedicated account.

{{whyLabel}}: ADUs require specialized knowledge of small-space efficiency and specific ADU building codes.

{{howLabel}}:

• Interview 3 pros who have completed at least 5 ADUs in your specific city.
• Ask for Pre-approved Plans to save $5k–$10k in design fees and weeks in permitting.
• Verify licenses via your state's Contractor State License Board (CSLB).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Signed contracts with an architect and/or general contractor.

{{whyLabel}}: Designing for accessibility (curbless showers, wide doors) increases long-term value and utility.

{{howLabel}}:

• Ensure 36-inch wide doorways for wheelchair access.
• Plan a Kitchenette with induction cooktops to avoid gas line costs.
• Use 'ADUs: The Perfect Housing Solution' by Sheri Koones for small-space design inspiration.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Completed architectural set ready for city submission.

{{whyLabel}}: This starts the official 'shot clock' (usually 60 days) for city approval.

{{howLabel}}:

• Submit Site Plans, MEP (Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing), and Title 24 energy reports.
• Confirm Impact Fee Exemptions (in CA, ADUs <750 sq ft are exempt from most impact fees).
• Track the application weekly via the city's permit portal.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A permit application number and receipt for paid fees.

{{whyLabel}}: A solid foundation prevents future structural settling and water intrusion.

{{howLabel}}:

• Clear vegetation and trench for utilities (sewer/water/electric) from the main house.
• Install Formwork and Rebar according to structural engineering specs.
• Schedule a Pre-pour Inspection with the city building official.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Cured concrete foundation with utility stubs in place.

{{whyLabel}}: Getting the structure 'dried-in' protects interior materials from weather damage.

{{howLabel}}:

• Erect Wall Studs and roof rafters.
• Install Windows and Exterior Doors with proper flashing.
• Apply Roofing Shingles or metal panels immediately after framing.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The structure is fully enclosed and weather-tight.

{{whyLabel}}: Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) must be inspected before walls are closed.

{{howLabel}}:

• Install PEX plumbing lines and electrical wiring.
• Set up a Mini-split HVAC system (most efficient for ADUs).
• Schedule the Rough-in Inspection before installing insulation.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Passed city inspection for plumbing, electrical, and mechanical.

{{whyLabel}}: Bathrooms are the most complex interior spaces; finishing them first allows for early utility testing.

{{howLabel}}:

• Install Waterproof Backer Board and tile the shower.
• Set the Low-flow Toilet and vanity.
• Install a High-CFM Exhaust Fan to prevent mold in small ADU spaces.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A fully functional, tiled, and plumbed bathroom.

{{whyLabel}}: The kitchen is the heart of the ADU and requires precise electrical/plumbing alignment.

{{howLabel}}:

• Use Space-saving Appliances (24-inch fridge, 18-inch dishwasher).
• Install Quartz Countertops for durability in rental scenarios.
• Mount Under-cabinet Lighting to make the small space feel larger.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Kitchen cabinets, counters, and appliances are installed and powered.

{{whyLabel}}: These areas require the final aesthetic touches like flooring and paint.

{{howLabel}}:

• Lay LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank) Flooring for maximum water and scratch resistance.
• Paint walls with Light, Neutral Colors (e.g., Off-white) to maximize light.
• Install Built-in Storage or Murphy beds to optimize the small footprint.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Flooring, paint, and trim are complete in all remaining areas.

{{whyLabel}}: You cannot legally occupy the ADU without a final sign-off from the building department.

{{howLabel}}:

• Ensure all Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors are installed and tested.
• Verify that Egress Windows in the bedroom meet code requirements.
• Walk the site with the inspector to address any minor 'punch list' items.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A signed-off permit card or Certificate of Occupancy.

{{whyLabel}}: Finalizing the unit with furniture and utilities completes the project.

{{howLabel}}:

• Set up Separate Trash/Recycling bins for the ADU.
• Install a Smart Lock for easy keyless entry (ideal for rentals or guests).
• Create a Home Manual explaining the mini-split, water shut-off, and Wi-Fi.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The unit is furnished, clean, and ready for the first occupant.