Most homeowners choose to work with some type of design professional to plan their ADU and help throughout the process. Bringing on a professional early in the process is often key to getting your ADU approved quickly, managed efficiently, and built cost-effectively. Relevant experience and fit will be critical.
There are a variety of types of designer, and they may be an architect, builder, “designer,” design/build, or a modular/prefab company. If you’re hiring a local individual or team, they’ll likely start the process by visiting your home and talking to you about your ideas and goals. If it seems like a good match, they will prepare a proposal detailing their services and fee. Professionals typically charge for an initial consultation or proposal.
Note that if you’re not using a licensed architect to design your ADU, your plans will need to be stamped by a licensed engineer.
Check our Vendor List and our Standard Plans Gallery for some design professional options. See our Exercises for a list of questions to ask a potential architect or designer, our Glossary to be clear on terms, and our Workbook for more details.
Periodic updates, stories, and resources to support your ADU project.
Produced by Community Planning Collaborative