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ADU construction company: what one actually does

By the HyreADU research desk. Last checked .

The short answer

An ADU construction company is a builder that focuses on accessory dwelling units. In California it still needs a B General Building license. The useful question is not the name on the van but which of the design, permit, site, utility and build steps the firm takes on, and which it leaves to you.

What one usually takes on

Most firms that market themselves for ADUs build the structure and manage the trades. Some also draw the plans and pull the permit. Others start only once you hand them approved drawings. The scope varies firm to firm, so ask for it in writing.

What is often left to you

Site surveys, soils reports, utility applications and the fees your city and water district charge are often outside the builder’s number.

Under Gov. Code § 66311.5, California waives impact fees on an ADU of 750 square feet or less, but that waiver does not cover utility connection fees or capacity charges. Ask who applies for those and who pays.

Questions that sort firms quickly

Which license number will sign the contract? How many ADUs has that license finished in this city? Who draws the plans, and who answers plan check comments? Is site work a priced line or an allowance? Who applies to the utilities? Each answer goes into the contract.

Our California ADU builders research shows which firms hold B licenses and how many appear on permits.

What to do next: read the questions to ask an ADU builder, check what decides ADU cost, then tell us about your project. Matching is not live yet, so we reply with information, not a quote.

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Questions

Is an ADU construction company cheaper than a general contractor?

There is no rule. A firm that builds the same plans often may move faster. A general contractor may price your site more closely. Compare itemized bids on the same drawings.

Do ADU construction companies pull the permit?

Many do, but not all. Put it in the contract so there is no gap.

Can a company build in any city?

A California license lets it work statewide, but each city has its own plan check and fees. Ask for ADUs it finished in your city.

Does HyreADU partner with ADU companies?

No. HyreADU has no partner builders and matching is not live.

Sources

HyreADU is a publisher. It does not design, permit or build ADUs, has no partner builders, and gives no legal, tax or engineering advice. Rules vary by state and city; California rules are labeled as such.