• Do you offer financing for ADU construction?

         Yes! We are an approved contractor with Cross Country Mortgage, as they offer multiple financing options for ADU construction. An FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan allows you to finance the cost of the ADU construction in one loan during the purchase or refinance of a home. Conventional Construction Loans are available for building new ADU's on existing properties. A Cash-Out Refinance or HELOC allows homeowners to use their existing equity to fund the construction of an ADU on their current property. Contact Tobie Love at Cross Country Mortgage for more information. (951) 634-3334

 

• How much does it cost?

    ADUs detached $300-$350 a square foot build cost. Architectural plans with engineering, processing and title 24 vary but usually land at $10-$15k. City fees are calculated per project and vary based on sizing of the ADU and jurisdiction. They range from $6k-and up. All utility runs from existing are calculated per ft. There are some exclusions to this pricing such as appliances, site-work, demo. All these items vary per project and will be detailed out in each specific bid.

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• Do you handle plans and permits?

         Yes we are a one stop shop for ADUs! If you do not have plans, permits or an architect we can complete the whole process for you. We regularly work with architects, engineers and building departments. The process has many departments and requirements that we are very familiar with. 
 

• How long does the permit process take?

         Each City and County have different permitting timelines, but we typically advise at least 5 months to clear the multiple departments involved. Some time-lines are beyond our control as they tend to lack communication and promptness. We are very efficient and have been through these processes many times so rest assured we have you covered.
 

• How long does the build take?

         Smaller ADUs are typically completed in 10-12 weeks once permits are issued, and larger ADUs are typically completed in 12-16 weeks once permits are issued.
 

• Can we pick our finishes such as floors, tile, cabinets?

         Our initial estimate will have per sf. allowances for flooring, tile, etc. Any of these items can be upgraded, changed, and customized. For example we usually allot 2.75 a sq. ft. for lvp floors. If you would like something different you simply let us know. All of our adu finishes are flexible and tailored per customer.

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• What is the process for someone just getting started?

       Give us a call we will schedule a meeting and meet on-site to discuss your specific needs. At that time we  review desired location, feasibility, setbacks  & utility tie-in's. Then we provide an estimate of cost to establish feasibility of the project. Once the estimate is accepted, we write up a contract and schedule our architect to site meet with us to begin drawings which will get several iterations. From there the architect designs 3d renderings and layouts for review and approval. Once the design is approved it moves on to engineering and title 24. Final plans are submitted for review with your local land use, building and safety, waste, health and fire departments.
 

• Can the city or my HOA prevent me from building an ADU?

Thanks to a state wide laws a city or HOA cannot stop you from building an adu. There are regulations that need to met such as setbacks codes etc. but generally speaking they cannot deny you the ability to build or convert space for an adu.

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• How do utilities work for a detached unit?

         Utilities are most commonly shared with the existing residence. We run electrical from the existing panel to a new sub-panel for the ADU on the same meter. Sewer is usually tied in at the front of the home main. Water is picked up at the closest location to the ADU, and gas is usually brought from the gas meter unless a 2" line is available near the adu.

 

• Can the ADU be attached or detached?

          An adu can be attached or detached. You are generally allowed one detached unit up to 1,200 sf. or an attached unit measuring 50% of the existing residence, as well as one Junior ADU (JADU/conversion) up to 500 sf.

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• What are the setbacks for ADUs?

         4 feet setbacks are required.

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• I am on Septic can I build an ADU?

         Yes, however the existing septic tank and leach lines would need to be upgraded or a separate system would need to be installed. This is all calculated and regulated by the county health department.

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• Do I need solar on the new ADU?

         All ADUs require a solar system installed that offsets energy usage for the new square footage. We work with a great solar company regularly on all ADUs. There are instances when the existing home has solar or batteries and its possible additional panels are not required.

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• What are the deposit and payment schedules?

         We do not require a deposit, only a signed contract to get started. Our contract details payment schedules which are based on work completed milestones. Once permits are approved, payment for plans and permit processing is due. We then complete foundation and bill accordingly. All payments are performance based and no items are billed for that are not yet completed.

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• Will the ADU match my existing home?

         Yes, the ADU will be designed to match the existing home, including all exterior elements such as roofing, stucco, siding, paint, and windows.

 

• How much does it cost for permits?

         Permit cost varies depending on each municipality, project  and the departments required. Generally we recommend to allocate $10,000 - $15,000 for permitting fees. 

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• What fees can I expect to pay in addition to permit fees?

         School fees apply to any new construction over 500 sf. They are calculated per square foot, and paid directly to the school district in which you reside prior to the building permit being issued. ADUs under 500 sf. are exempt from school impact fees. 

         Development Impact Fees (DIF Fees/Mitigation Fees) are imposed on units over 750 sf. and are paid to the building department prior to final inspection and issuance of the Certificate of Occupation. ADUs under 750 sf. are exempt from DIF fees.

 

• Do I need fire sprinklers?

         If your existing residence has fire sprinklers then your new ADU will require them. There is a separate permit and fire plans for that work, which can be completed concurrently by Stephens Brothers Construction.
 

• Does your company perform the work?

         YES! We are a licensed general contractor that is on site daily from the first estimate to final inspection. We complete a majority of the work in house, and oversee the subcontractors completing the specialty trades such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC and roofing. We have a great team that has all worked together for years. Owners are on-site working daily, we are not armchair GCs. You will see us everyday and we have many references from past clients that attest to that. 

 

• How do I schedule an appointment?

         We can be reached by phone/text M-F 7am - 5pm at (951) 234-9487. Additionally, you can email a consultation request to TwoBrosBuild@gmail.com.