Start any new home improvement project with trepidation. From landscape to kitchen remodeling, there are numerous questions. One of the hardest parts is choosing a contractor. Adding an ADU to your house is similar. From material, placement, construction, and hiring a contractor, the process may seem overwhelming. Consider adding an auxiliary living unit. Check out these Golden State ADUs builder qualities before hiring. Some of the factors to consider when building ADUs are covered in this article.
ADUs—What Are They?
Granny flats, in-law suites, and garage apartments are examples. An ancillary dwelling unit is an additional living space on the same lot as a bigger house. The ADU can be attached or separated from the main house. An ADU needs a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. It will share electricity and municipal water with the main property. ADUs are gaining popularity nationwide. In cities, they provide cheaper rentals. People everywhere find ADUs useful for caring for aged parents or other family members.
ADU Building Benefits
Many homeowners and localities benefit from accessory housing units. These are some of the main reasons to create an ADU.
- Aging Parent Housing: You probably know people live longer. You may be taking care of an aging relative. ADUs can be tailored to seniors. Located near your house, they offer privacy and convenience for visiting your loved one.
- Special Needs Space: If you have a special-needs loved one, consider an ADU. You can customize an ADU for accessibility and discrimination prevention.
- Conserving Land: ADUs benefit your community. Accessory residences are much smaller than typical homes. Building an ADU is less disruptive than building a larger home because electrical and water services are already in place.
- Affordable Housing Supply Growth: Rentals are rising, especially in popular cities. An inexpensive ADU can enhance housing availability and provide a long-term investment for your home and family.
Top ADU Builder Qualities
After deciding on building an ADU, choose a builder. Take your time and make this decision right. Your contractor will make or break ADU construction.
- Experience in ADUs: Many contractors claim experience, but are they? What portfolio do they have? Have they erected many ADUs? Ask these questions and get significant replies. ADU construction is complicated and requires a unique permit process. ADU construction is unlike remodeling.
- Excellent Reviews: Beginning your list online is ideal. Ask your realtor, neighbors, and friends about their experiences.
- Responsiveness: One of the biggest concerns about builders is their sluggish response time. This is noticeable immediately. Do they answer calls? Are your emails answered? If a builder takes a week to react to your review request, beware. Yes, running a firm and building well is difficult. Builders with responsive communication should be your first choice because it's part of the process.
- Ready to guide: Describe your vision. Does the contractor listen and respond? Do they intervene to guide the planning discussion? The ADU will be part of your property for years and you must ensure it meets your needs. Building experience and advice should assist your vision, not eliminate it. A professional ADU builder like Golden State Design & Engineering will listen and assist you realize your vision.
- Excellent References: Talk to a contractor's past clients. Yes, they'll give you top jobs. You should still ask former clients what they wish had gone better.
- Valid License and Insurance: They may cost more, but a licensed and insured builder will give you peace of mind and remedy if something goes wrong. Contact your municipality to verify their licensing and insurance. Ask the local Building or Planning Department for the best ADU firms.
- Local Knowledge: Municipalities like Golden State have various ADU construction laws. Find an ADU builder who has worked in your region or a specialist who can ensure your project is compliant.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ADU builder is a crucial step in completing a successful ADU or prefab home project. Here are some tips to help you find a trustworthy builder who can help you realize your project: look up local builders, read online reviews, get recommendations, check for insurance and license, request a consultation, and get several quotes to make an informed choice.
