Frequently Asked Questions

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary residential unit located on the same property as a primary home. It typically includes living, sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities. ADUs can provide additional living space for family members, guests, or potential rental use.

ADU Specialist focuses on helping homeowners create additional living spaces through ADU construction and related projects. Depending on the property and project requirements, options may include detached ADUs, attached ADUs, and garage conversions.

An ADU can provide additional living space, accommodate extended family, create a more private guest space, or offer potential rental income. It may also increase a property's appeal, although added value and rental potential are not guaranteed.

Eligibility depends on your property's location, zoning, site conditions, applicable regulations, and proposed design. We can help you understand the next steps for evaluating your property and planning your project.

Our advertised starting price is $275 per square foot. Your final project price depends on factors such as size, layout, site conditions, materials, utility requirements, and the agreed construction scope. Contact us for a project-specific estimate.

The exact inclusions depend on the qualifying project and the agreed scope of work. Your written estimate will identify the construction work, materials, services, allowances, and fees included in your price, along with any exclusions or additional costs.

These costs should be confirmed in your project estimate. Depending on the project, architectural services, structural engineering, permit fees, utility connections, and other expenses may be additional.

Yes. Layouts, fixtures, cabinetry, flooring, appliances, and other design features can be discussed during planning. Custom selections and design changes may affect the final project cost.

Your written agreement should establish the project scope and pricing terms. Changes to the design, unforeseen site conditions, or additional work may affect the cost. Any applicable changes should be addressed through the agreed change-order process.

Most ADU construction projects require applicable building permits and approvals. Specific requirements depend on your property's jurisdiction and the proposed project. We help coordinate the permitting process and applicable approvals as outlined in your agreement.

Yes. We coordinate the applicable permitting process as part of our start-to-finish project approach, based on the agreed scope of services. Required approvals remain subject to the relevant authorities.

Many ADU projects require architectural drawings, structural engineering, and other documentation. The specific requirements depend on the project design, site conditions, and applicable regulations.

We can discuss your goals, available space, and proposed layout to help identify potential options. Final feasibility depends on property conditions, applicable regulations, and the required technical review.

ADU Specialist offers a start-to-finish approach, coordinating the process from planning and permitting through construction and finishing, according to the services outlined in your project agreement.

The process typically includes:

1. Initial consultation and project planning.
2. Design and engineering coordination.
3. Permit applications and approvals.
4. Site preparation and foundation work.
5. Framing, utilities, and building systems.
6. Interior and exterior finishes.
7. Required final inspections and project handover.

The exact sequence and requirements vary by project.

The overall timeline depends on design development, permitting, site preparation, construction complexity, inspections, and material availability. We discuss project-specific timelines as more information becomes available.

In many cases, homeowners can remain in their primary residence during ADU construction. However, noise, dust, utility interruptions, access limitations, and site safety requirements may affect daily life during certain stages.

Project communication and progress updates should be established during the planning process. We aim to maintain clear communication about project progress, upcoming stages, and issues that may affect the schedule or scope.

Financing availability depends on the programs and providers currently available to homeowners. Contact us to discuss your project budget and any financing resources we can direct you toward.

Payment terms depend on your written construction agreement. Your proposal should clearly outline the payment schedule, applicable milestones, and contract terms before work begins.

Some projects may allow certain planning or construction activities to be separated, but the feasibility and cost implications depend on the design, permitting requirements, financing, and construction scope. Discuss your goals with us before finalizing your plans.

We discuss your goals, intended use for the ADU, preferred size, property location, and budget. This helps establish the next steps for evaluating the project and preparing an estimate.

It is helpful to know your property location, preferred ADU size, intended layout, project type, and approximate budget. Existing surveys, architectural plans, or other property documents can also be useful if available.

Service availability depends on the project location and current company coverage. Contact us with your property address or city to confirm whether your project is within our service area.

ADU Specialist is a brand of Golden Horizon Builders, focused on ADU construction and related residential projects. The responsible contracting business and applicable licensing information should be confirmed in your construction agreement and the company's official disclosures.