When building an ADU in Los Angeles, there are a few things you need to know. From how much it is going to cost to what you need to make it happen, we have you covered.
What is An ADU?
Before even considering the construction process, you should understand what an ADU is.
Accessory Dwelling Units are just small homes that share property with a larger home. Once you understand the different types and regulations surrounding them, you will be good to start your planning.
Choose A Reputable Contractor
When constructing an ADU in Los Angeles, or anywhere really, you should always work with a reputable contractor.
The contractor you choose should:
- Be completely licensed and insured
- Have experience building ADU’s in your area
- Have reputable reviews from past clients that you can double check
The last thing you want is a cheap contractor who doesn’t know the regulations for your area and ends up costing you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Always Make A Budget First
A good ADU contractor will let you know that you should always budget out your entire project first. In your budget, you should include things like:
- Cost of contractor
- Cost of permits
- Cost of raw materials
If you don’t budget everything out from the beginning, you could end up realizing halfway through the process that you can’t afford to complete it.
Understand Feasibility
You need to look into the regulations of the ADU you wish to build. Understanding what is possible and what is not is important before attempting to get your building permit.
Acquiring a permit can be a costly and lengthy project. To speed up the process and save you money, make sure you consult with a professional about the laws for your specific area before falling in love with a design that is not feasible to build.
Constructing Your ADU
Once you are finally able to begin the construction phase, it is important to note that even the most well planned projects almost always have little hiccups to them. That is okay. Plan in your budget for potential unforeseen problems and you will be able to get past them in no time.
