ADU Builders - Part I

Builders, builders everywhere

Tiny homes that don't compare

In your backyard ASAP

Now, who to trust, who to believe?

Frankly, I don't trust anyone, not even myself, and from the horror stories I've heard about contractors trust is not a word I would use for anyone involved in the building trades, at least not for ADUS.

A quick google search shows there are hundreds of ADU builders in California since any contractor is a viable source for those looking at constructing a backyard home.

And it's not just contractors but architects, design associates, landscapers, project managers . . . really anyone that sees opportunity in the ADU crazy! For example, the San Jose ADU Facebook group had a post from an air conditioner company that's now an ADU contractor. Hello!

So what choices do you have when it comes to hiring an ADU contractor?

Well first let's break out the network of skills you need to get an ADU built.

First, you need an architect or designer. And there is a long list of architects that are now promoting their ADU designs. But if you look at their websites they'll be partnering with builders.

For example, Inspired ADUs state they are experts in architecture, engineering, and interiors, with an emphasis on aesthetics, accessibility, functionality, and integrated design thinking for the built environment. During construction, they partner with independent, local builders.

In the case of Inspired ADUs, they have a portfolio of pre-designed plans in sizes from 341 sq st. to 1144 sq ft. which include:

• Cover Sheet

• Customized Site PlanFloor

• PlanElectrical

• PlanLighting

• PlanRoof

• PlanExterior

• Elevations

• Building Sections

• Interior Kitchen and Bath Elevations

• Construction Details

• Title 24 Energy Code

• Cal Green

• Structural Engineering

• Client Handouts and Videos

What's included in the plans is important since you will need plans that a contractor can use to build the ADU. But more importantly, you'll need plans your city will sign off on which means engineering and Title 24 calculations.

Here's a plan I like from Inspired ADUs which would fit nicely in the left rear corner of my backyard:

So I have a plan I like, now I need a builder. On to part II.