Choosing an ADU building company is a big decision you’ll make. But fortunately, it doesn’t have to be a difficult one. During the initial research do check for a valid construction license. If a potential builder fails to produce one, walk away. For ADU companies who possess a valid license, consider some of the typical factors mentioned in the guest post. Taking these points into consideration means you will easily find the right ADU builder you can trust.
This builder will boast of a long experience, not just in construction but also in accessory dwelling units specifically. Means, they will be specialized ADU builders with experience in these types of construction services.
Well, let’s step into the world of home construction and accessory dwelling units.
Types of ADU Construction
You will most probably ask yourself, “Should I go with a prefab ADU or a stick-built ADU?” Each home builder will generally specialize in one type or the other. Check up some of the pros and cons of both types of ADU construction.
Prefabricated ADUs
- Normally economically costing ($300-$450 per square foot).
- No charges of architect or engineering to be paid.
- Controlled building conditions offsite.
- Thorough inspections.
- Expected timeline (without weather delays).
- Overall efficient process.
- Minor customization.
- Tolerable noise and/or disruption.
Stick-built ADUs
- Normally expensively costing ($700–$900 per square foot)
- Hiring architect and a general contractor, is a requirement.
- Onsite build with inspections of differing consistency.
- Uncertain timeline (possibility of weather delays).
- Full customization.
- Increased level of onsite noise and/or disruption.
Total Cost
Price is a primary concern for most people. Prefab housing normally costs lesser per square foot, opposed to stick built. The fact is site-built homes can be double expensive or more per square foot than prefab. Prefab ADU models may carry a starting price tag of $119,000 for the unit. The accessory dwelling unit builders you talk to will come up with a comprehensive estimate for additional site and delivery costs associated with your property. You should ask for a total project cost that encompasses the unit, permitting, site preparation, delivery, installation, utility hookups, and inspection before you decide to go on with your project.
ADU Quality
The starting lower cost doesn’t hold any meaning if you’ll have to pay out for lots of repairs down the line. All manufactured homes should adhere to codes established by HUD – the U.S. Department of Urban Housing and Development – that guarantee safety, uniformity, durability, and persistency of construction. The ADU construction exceed HUDs building standards so are strong, durable, and of a high quality. Moreover, they come with a 7-year warranty on more than 30 items. Site-built homes should comply with the established codes. For example, a prefab ADU will have a higher roof load, robust interior walls, and well-insulated floors.
Timeline
If you want a backyard home fast, prefab obviously is the way to go. Due to the well-honed production and process efficiencies, the reputable accessory dwelling unit builders can build and install an ADU as fast as within seven to twelve months. An ordinary prefab ADU builder on the opposite side usually takes longer. While the stick-built construction is the slowest choice of all, normally taking at least a year to a year and a half.
Project Management
Construction project obstacles can be daunting if you are doing it alone. With a majority of prefab ADU builders, you’ll probably be researching and getting permits yourself. Moreover, you will need to hire and manage a general contractor, and coordinate with the utility agencies and the vendors. When it comes to stick-built housing, you’ll have to do everything including hire an architect and probably an engineer. But the ADU building experts will handle everything for you, right from permitting to delivering you the keys.
Comer Services
Many housing sellers are always looking to make a quick buck. Others would offer a little help or advice after you purchase, but there is no guarantee. And anyone who has ever had work done around the home knows that home construction services Portland vary widely when it comes to capability and attitude. Always, ask friends and family for referrals, check-up reviews, and read into recommendations in online groups and/or forums. A good general contractor would be known for its excellent customer service and happy customers.
Here are some typical examples of ADUs:
- A living area over a car garage.
- A living area in the basement of a house.
- A small addition to the main dwelling.
- A manufactured house – that is classified as real property by law.
The Bottom Line
Keep all these factors in mind and you will end up finding the right ADU residential construction service that comes with the desired expertise in building accessory dwelling units.
