Frequently Asked Questions
"What exactly is an ADU and why should I consider building one?
An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot that includes its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area, making it a fully independent living space. It can be a detached new build in your backyard, an attached extension to your main house, or a conversion of an existing structure like a garage. Many homeowners choose to build an ADU for passive rental income, to provide a comfortable home for aging parents or adult children, as a dedicated home office, or as a private guest suite. Beyond the immediate utility, an ADU significantly enhances your property’s value and provides long-term flexibility for your evolving needs, offering a smart investment in your property’s future.”
"What's involved in the ADU construction process, and how long does it typically take?
Our process is designed to be as seamless as possible for you, from concept to completion. It generally begins with an initial consultation to understand your vision and assess your property’s potential and local zoning requirements. From there, we move into detailed design and architectural planning, followed by the crucial phase of navigating all necessary permitting with local authorities – a step we manage entirely on your behalf. Once permits are secured, our skilled team handles all aspects of construction, from foundation to finishes. The overall timeline, including design, permitting, and construction, typically ranges from 3 to 8 months, with construction itself often taking between 3 to 9 months, depending on the ADU’s size, complexity, and specific finish selections.”
"Can my property accommodate an ADU, and what are the typical costs?
While recent zoning changes have made ADUs more widely permissible, specific requirements regarding lot size, setbacks, and existing structures vary by municipality and property. During our initial consultation, we conduct a thorough feasibility study to determine your property’s specific eligibility and discuss the most viable options for your site, ensuring compliance with all local regulations. As for cost, it can vary significantly based on square footage, design choices, and the quality of finishes. We provide detailed, transparent quotes after our initial property assessment and design discussions, ensuring you understand every aspect of the investment. Our goal is to deliver a high-quality, code-compliant ADU that meets your budget and design aspirations, providing a clear financial roadmap from the outset.”
Am I eligible to build an ADU on my property?
Most single-family properties are now eligible to build at least one ADU, thanks to recent state-level legislation promoting their construction. However, specific local zoning ordinances, lot size, setbacks, and available utilities can influence what kind of ADU you can build. Our process begins with a free site evaluation to determine your property’s exact eligibility and potential.
How much does an ADU typically cost, and what factors influence the price?
The cost of an ADU varies widely based on size, design complexity, chosen materials and finishes, site-specific challenges (e.g., utility connections, grading), and permitting fees. While it’s difficult to give an exact figure without a detailed plan, we provide transparent, itemized estimates after our initial consultation and feasibility study. We work with you to align the design with your budget.
How long does the ADU construction process take from start to finish?
The total timeline for an ADU project typically ranges from 8 to 18 months, broken down into several phases:
- Design & Planning: 1-2 months (includes architectural drawings, structural engineering).
- Permitting: 3-8 months (varies significantly by local jurisdiction).
- Construction: 3-6 months (physical build time). We streamline each phase to ensure efficiency without compromising quality.
What is your typical ADU construction process?
Our process is designed to be seamless and stress-free for you:
- Initial Consultation & Feasibility: We visit your property, discuss your vision, budget, and assess site potential.
- Design & Planning: Our partner architects create custom designs that meet your needs and local regulations.
- Permit Acquisition: We handle all necessary paperwork and navigate the permitting process with your local city or county.
- Construction: Our skilled team manages every aspect of the build, from foundation to finishes, with regular communication.
- Final Inspection & Handover: We ensure everything is up to code and deliver your beautiful, ready-to-use ADU.
Do I need to hire an architect, or do you handle the design phase?
We offer comprehensive design-build services, meaning we can handle the entire process from conceptualization to completion. We have trusted architectural partners who specialize in ADUs, ensuring your unit is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and meets all code requirements. If you already have plans, we’re happy to work with your chosen architect.
What about permits and local regulations? Do I need to worry about that?
Absolutely not! Navigating city permits and ever-evolving building codes can be complex and time-consuming. As part of our service, we meticulously prepare and submit all necessary applications, drawings, and documentation to your local planning and building departments. We act as your advocate, ensuring your project complies with all regulations and secures the necessary approvals. If you choose to work with our partner architect then we take care of it if you have your own architect then they will be submitting plans to city and making sure it gets approved.
Can I customize the design and features of my ADU?
Yes, customization is central to our approach! We believe your ADU should reflect your unique needs and style. Whether you envision a modern minimalist studio, a cozy craftsman cottage, or an accessible unit for mobility, we work closely with you on layout, finishes, fixtures, and energy-efficient options to create a space that perfectly fits your vision.
How do you minimize disruption to my property during construction?
We understand that construction can be disruptive. Our team prioritizes lean site management, maintaining a clean and organized work area, minimizing noise and dust, and respecting your property and privacy. We establish clear access points, protect existing landscaping, and keep you informed of our schedule and progress to ensure a smooth construction experience.
What makes Doza Build, Inc different from other ADU contractors?
At Doza Build, Inc we specialize exclusively in ADUs, giving us unparalleled expertise in design, permitting, and construction specific to these unique structures. Our commitment to transparent communication, meticulous project management, high-quality craftsmanship, and a seamless client experience sets us apart. We pride ourselves on delivering beautiful, functional ADUs on time and within budget, with minimal stress for you.