Question 1

Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Los Angeles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and we handle all of it. California state law requires cities to approve compliant ADUs within 60 days; in practice our submissions to LADBS are approved in about 6 weeks because we design to the code from day one and pre-clear the tricky items (setbacks, fire separation, utilities) before filing.

Question 2

How long does the whole thing take?

Accepted Answer

From first site visit to keys: typically 6 to 9 months. Design takes 4–6 weeks, permits about 6, and construction 12–26 weeks depending on size. We give you the full calendar before you sign, and we build to it.

Question 3

What does an ADU cost?

Accepted Answer

Our detached ADUs run from roughly $185,000 for a compact studio to $420,000+ for a two-bedroom with premium finishes. The number we give you after the site assessment is a fixed price, not a range: it includes design, permits, utilities, finishes and landscaping.

Question 4

Can you help with financing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Most of our clients use a HELOC, a cash-out refinance or a construction-to-permanent loan. We work with two local lenders who understand ADU appraisals and can walk you through the options before design starts.

Question 5

How close to the property line can it go?

Accepted Answer

State law allows a 4-foot rear and side setback for ADUs up to 16 feet tall, regardless of the underlying zoning. Conversions of existing structures can often sit right on the line. We confirm your exact setbacks, easements and fire-separation distances during the feasibility visit.

Question 6

What about water, sewer and electricity?

Accepted Answer

Every ADU we build has its own connections and, where it makes sense, its own meter. We trench and connect to the existing sewer lateral, upsize the main panel if needed, and pre-wire for solar and EV. Utility work is in the fixed price.

Question 7

What warranty do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Ten years structural, two years on systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) and one year on everything else, all in writing. Beyond the warranty, we come back: most of our projects get a courtesy check at the 12-month mark.

Question 8

Can I stay in my house during construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The build happens in your backyard, not your home. We fence the site, protect the access path, keep hours to 7:30–4:30, and clean up daily. Most clients say the hardest part was the two days the trench crossed the driveway.

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