Frequently Asked Questions
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Where do I start?
Starting an ADU can be intimidating without proper guidance. First, call your local water district, fire marshal, planning & building departments to find out what requirements, restrictions and regulations your property must abide by. Different areas have different requirements, so tread lightly and double check what is necessary for your property. A common path for homeowners to discover if their property is feasible for an ADU is through a feasibility study, which allows any homeowner to bypass the headache and leave the paperwork to us. You can learn a lot more about what to expect when building your ADU here.
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
Why should I buy a factory-built ADU?
Factory-Built ADUs provide homeowners several advantages over on-site construction. Many of these advantages are second thoughts to homeowners and most wish they knew of the advantages before building their ADU. One of the biggest advantages is the amount of time and money you save with assembly-line construction; with step-by-step procedures that occur within the factory, everything is handled in a unform, repetitive fashion that ensures no one is getting in each others way and time is fully optimized. Not to mention, construction companies have to take time setting up and putting away their tools almost every day with on-site construction, but with factory-built construction, tools never leave the factory so no time is wasted setting up or putting away anything. And, did we mention no guessing on material cost or worrying when the project will be completed? Throughout the entire process all materials are in a climate-controlled environment, allowing for optimal construction and allowing you to never worry about materials sitting somewhere being damaged by the weather.
What if I have a problem now or in the future?
No problem. At Framework First, we care about our clients and the work we present – we will never leave you unsatisfied with our work. We guarantee our work now and later. Meaning, we’re just a phone call away if any problem occurs. We take pride in our customer support, if there is any problem that arises in the future, we will be there to fix it for you. If anything arises after the delivery of the ADU you can always schedule a call and get support on fixing the problem right away.
How do I know if I can build one on my property?
Almost everyone can have an ADU or at least a JADU (junior ADU) on their property depending on the size or layout of their lot or land. All properties are different though, so start by ordering a feasibility study or by calling your local water and sewer companies.
What do people use ADUs for?
You can use your ADU for a family member to live in such as a parent or adult child or as a rental home. The possibilities are endless, office or art studio, pool house or just extra living space.
Do I need to live on the property my ADU is being built on?
Actually, NO. You can rent both the main house and the ADU. With a JADU (contained within the walls of the main house), one of the units needs to be occupied by the owner.
Can I convert my garage into an ADU?
Yes, definitely. This is probably one of the least expensive ways to add on another living space by converting your garage since it already has walls and a roof.
Is Detached or Attached better?
Detached is nice because it will feel more like two separate homes, giving each occupant ‘space’. However, attached are less expensive, so that can be great and meet the budget requirements also.
How big can my ADU be?
The sizes vary by your home’s location. There will be some restrictions such as if you need a septic system or if you need water credits. Start with our Feasibility Study for a detailed analysis, or get our step-by-step book and workbook and we will guide you through the process.
Are ADUs a good investment?
YES! They are a great investment. This is the least expensive way to buy another house in California and it can be a rental too!
NOTE: We are not financial advisors and our opinions should not be mistaken for legal advice.
Can I build my own ADU?
YES, you can build your own ADU, buy it pre-built, hire a contractor or any combination of the above.
How long will the whole process take?
Now with the new California State Laws your building permits can be approved in only 60 days! Of course, it takes a little longer than that, but it’s
quick!
Why should I choose you guys?
We are a family owned and operated company with a special attention to detail, as many companies say, but we are led by a strong woman who sees to the details on each and every project. We will make sure that down to the last cabinet pull everything is installed exactly as planned. We stand behind all of our projects with honesty and integrity.
Are they earthquake safe?
At Framework First our ADUs are installed on a permanent foundation, just like a house with earthquake safety protocols.
What type of warranty/guarantee do you offer?
We stand behind all of our work 100%. If you ever have a question or concern, contact us and we help you tomorrow, next month or next year. Anytime!
Can it be delivered to my house?
YES, we will bring it to you on a truck and trailer and install it on a permanent foundation on your property. It is quick and easy!
Do you offer payment plans?
YES, we offer financing and checking your rate will not impact your credit score. Our ADUs may also qualify for standard mortgage financing since they are installed on a permanent foundation, just like your home.
How much will this improve the value of my home?
By adding an ADU to your property, you are adding a complete 2nd home. Not only is the ADU adding value, but it can also add rental income to the valuation. This is the easiest path to owning a 2nd home, without buying a new property.
Do you have to be a homeowner?
YES, the property owner needs to approve the ADU being built and there needs to be an existing home for an ADU to be built.
How do I know if this is the right fit for me?
If you need extra living space for family, ADUs are for you! If you need extra income, ADUs are for you! The time has never been better to legally add an ADU onto your property or investment property.
How do I know if it will fit on my property?
There are a couple of qualifications, but almost all properties qualify for some type of ADU. We want to help — give us a call or text for more information!
Get in Touch
Still haven’t found the answer to your question? Not too worry, we’ll get you an answer as soon as we can – that and any other questions or concerns you may have, we’re here to help!