Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) can be a great ideaâwhether you’re looking to generate rental income, make room for extended family, or add resale value to your property. But before you call up a contractor and give the green light, there’s a lot to ask. Jumping into the process without asking the right questions can lead to delays, budget overruns, and regrets. So, if youâve searched âADU construction near meâ, hold that call until youâre fully prepared with the right questions in mind.
What Are the Local Regulations?
Start with Zoning Rules
Every city and county has its own set of zoning laws. Youâll need to ask about setbacks, maximum square footage, and how many ADUs your property can legally support. Not all residential zones allow for an ADU, so clarifying this early avoids surprises later on.
Check Permit Requirements
Permit timelines vary wildly depending on location. Ask how long it takes to get permits in your area, what fees are involved, and whether your contractor will handle the paperwork or leave it to you.
Who Will Handle the Design?
Is an Architect or Designer Involved?
Some contractors work with in-house designers, while others require you to hire one separately. Itâs important to know this ahead of time. Make sure youâre clear on whoâs drawing the plans and how much input youâll have in the layout and finish details.
Can the Design Be Customized?
Even if you’re working off a standard plan, you may want changes. Ask if adjustments can be made to suit your needsâwhether itâs expanding a bathroom or adding extra storage.
Whatâs the Full Cost Breakdown?
Ask for a Line-Item Estimate
A vague lump sum isnât enough. You should see a detailed estimate that breaks down materials, labor, permits, and any potential extras. That way, youâll know where your money is going and where you might be able to cut costs if needed.
Whatâs Not Included?
This one matters more than youâd think. Ask what isnât part of the contract. Sometimes, utility hookups, landscaping, or interior finishes fall outside the scope and cost you more later.
How Long Will It Take?
Ask for a Realistic Timeline
Most ADU projects take several months to complete. Get a schedule that outlines each major stageâfrom site prep to final inspection. Then ask what kind of delays might throw that off track, so youâre not caught off guard.
Will You Be Updated Regularly?
Ongoing communication is key. Ask how often youâll get updates and who youâll be speaking with during construction. Having one point of contact helps keep things on track and avoids confusion.
What Experience Do You Have with ADUs?
Check Previous Projects
Working with contractors whoâve built ADUs before can save you a lot of stress. Ask to see examples of past projects and talk to past clients if possible. A seasoned pro will already know how to avoid common mistakes.
Ask About Challenges Theyâve Handled
This helps you understand how your builder responds to problems. Every construction job hits a few bumpsâwhat matters is how they handle them.
Will My Home Be Disrupted?
Ask About Access Points
Construction means noise and mess. Ask how crews will access your yard, where materials will be stored, and how theyâll protect the rest of your property. If you live on-site, youâll want to know how this will affect your daily life.
How Will They Manage Clean-Up?
Some builders are better than others when it comes to clean worksites. Find out how they plan to manage debris and how often cleanup will happen during the build.
What Materials Will Be Used?
Ask for Material Details
From flooring to insulation, ask which materials are being used and why. Not all products are created equal, and some options may offer better longevity or be more cost-effective down the line.
Are There Supply Delays?
With global supply issues affecting everything from lumber to windows, you should ask whether material availability might delay your project.
What Warranties or Guarantees Are Offered?
Get Warranty Terms in Writing
Ask about warranty coverage for both labor and materials. This protects you from defects and helps you rest easier once the project is finished.
Who Handles Post-Job Issues?
Sometimes, issues pop up after the job is done. Ask whether the same crew will return to fix any problems or if a third party will be brought in.
Is Financing Available?
Ask About Payment Plans
If paying in full upfront isnât realistic, see if your builder offers financing options or payment plans. Ask what terms apply, whether there are interest fees, and how the billing schedule works during the project.
Check Whatâs Due and When
Even without financing, thereâs usually a deposit followed by milestone payments. Make sure you understand whatâs due at each stage of construction.
Can I Make Changes After We Start?
Know the Policy on Change Orders
Sometimes youâll want to change a material or layout mid-project. Ask how changes are handled, what they cost, and whether theyâll delay the job.
How Flexible Is the Contractor?
Some teams are more rigid than others. It helps to know upfront whether youâll be stuck with your original plan or if the contractor is open to adjustments.
Final Thoughts
Starting an ADU construction job is a big deal, and itâs one you shouldnât walk into blindly. Asking these questions up front can save you headaches, protect your budget, and keep your project on track. The more informed you are, the better decisions youâll makeâand the smoother everything will go from start to finish. So, before you call the first contractor you find online, make sure youâre ready with these questions. That preparation can make all the difference.
