Choosing the Best ADU Builder: 6 Important Considerations
Choosing an ADU builder is a big decision. But luckily, it doesn't have to be a difficult one! First check for a valid construction license. If a prospective builder doesn't have one, walk away. For builders who do have a license, consider the factors below. They'll help you find an ADU builder you can trust and who has plenty of experience, not just in construction but in accessory dwelling units specifically.
1. Types of ADU construction
Your first question might be, "Should I go with a prefab ADU or a stick-built ADU?" Each home builder tends to specialize in one type or the other. Here are some overall pros and cons of each type of construction.
Prefabricated ADUs
- Predictable pricing
- 80% of home is built offsite in quality-controlled setting
- Reduced onsite construction time
- Limited weather delays
- Preset floor plans with optional customizations
- Typically 11 months from contract to keys
Stick-built ADUs
- Highly variable pricing
- Built onsite under variable conditions
- Subject to labor, materials, and weather delays
- Several months of active construction on your property
- Fully customized floor plan
- Unpredictable timeline
2. Total cost
Price is paramount for many people. Prefab housing generally costs much less per square foot than stick-built. In fact, site-built homes can be twice as expensive or more per square foot than prefab. At Villa we'll give you a comprehensive estimate for other site and delivery costs associated with your property. You'll get a total project cost that covers the unit, permitting, site prep, delivery, installation, utility hookups, and inspection before you commit to your project.
3. ADU quality
An initial lower cost doesn't mean much if you'll have to shell out for lots of repairs down the road. All manufactured homes must conform to codes established by HUD (the U.S. Department of Urban Housing and Development), which ensure safety, uniformity, durability, and consistency of construction. Site-built homes must conform to codes created by HCD, the California Department of Housing and Community Development.
Learn more about HUD vs. HCD building standards.
4. Timeline
If you need a backyard home fast, prefab clearly is the way to go. Thanks to well-honed production and process efficiencies, Villa can build and install an ADU as quickly as within seven to twelve months. Other prefab ADU builders usually take longer and stick-built construction is the slowest option of all, generally taking at least a year to a year and a half.
5. Project management
Construction project hurdles can be daunting for anyone going it alone. With most prefab ADU builders, you'll have to research and get permits yourself, hire and manage a general contractor, and coordinate with the utility agencies and any vendors. With stick-built housing, you'll need to do all that plus hire an architect and possibly an engineer. But Villa's experts will take care of everything for you, from permitting to keys in hand.
6. Customer service
Some housing sellers seem to just want to turn a buck. Others may offer some help or advice after you buy, but it's not guaranteed. And anyone who's ever had work done around the home knows that general contractors vary widely in terms of capability and attitude. All Villa homes come standard with warranty.
Also ask friends and family for referrals, read reviews, and check out recommendations in online groups. Villa is known for its excellent customer service and happy customers.
Get started with a free estimate today.
The information provided here is not intended to and does not constitute legal advice. The information, content, and materials are provided for general informational purposes only. No reader, user, or browser of this site should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this site without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction and should contact their attorney to obtain legal advice. Villa expressly disclaims all claims and liability that may be based upon or related to the information provided herein.