Design/Build Process for Accessory Dwelling Units

The first step is to find out if your property qualifies for an ADU. Contact your city or county planning department to find out if you can add an ADU to your property, the maximum square footage allowed, and the property setbacks in place that will influence where you can place an ADU.

The next step is a free initial consultation from Backyard Unlimited. During this step, our team will review a satellite view of your address, conduct a rough feasibility analysis, and provide you a ballpark quote.

To receive your free initial consultation, simply fill out our ADU quote form.

• Cost: Free
• Time: 1 Hour

To continue planning your ADU, we will create a 3D design of your ADU. This involves an on-site property visit to take detailed measurements. Once we have those, our designer will create a full 3D model of your ADU, with a round of revisions. If you like the model, we will provide a detailed quote for your project.

• Cost: $500
• Time: 2-4 weeks

The next step is to transform that 3D model into the drafts and engineer-approved drawings we will need for the permitting process. This step includes engineering analysis & stamp, Title 24 energy analysis & certification, and solar design & plans. At the end of this step, you will have a finalized contract with final pricing.

• Cost: $3,000
• Time: 8-12 weeks

After the drafts have been completed and the final contract signed, our team will apply for building permits with your local planning office. Each project varies with the amount of time it takes to receive permits, but you can generally plan for 10-16 weeks before we receive approval.

• Cost: Included in Contract
• Time: 10-16 weeks

Once we get the permits in hand, we can schedule your installation. Your ADU will arrive in prefabricated sections, which we will assemble and finish. Backyard Unlimited schedules and manages all subcontractors, as well as scheduling all inspections.

• Cost: Included in Contract
• Time: 12-20 weeks