Are you interested in building an ADU but are not sure where to find the best contractor to get the job done? Let us help! This quick guide will show you how to find the best ADU contractor for your unique project.
1 Ask Around
Start by asking family and friends who they used to build their ADUs. As such a popular investment to make now thanks to the CalHFA grant, chances are that you know someone who has developed an ADU.
If you don’t personally know anyone, look online for reviews in your area. Websites like Yelp can be great for finding both good and bad reviews for local ADU contractors.
2 Make Sure They Are Licensed
Once you have a list of contractors, narrow it down by only focusing on those who are licensed.
To be licensed, you have to undergo years of proper training. You will also need to be fully insured and bonded. Never work with a contractor of any type who is not fully insured. If an accident happens on your property, you want the contractor’s insurance to pay for it, not you.
3 Have Fair Pricing
If their prices seem too good to be true, they probably are. If any contractor gives you a bid way below what other contractors are bidding at, immediately cross them off your list. An ADU is a big investment that you don’t want to risk being done incorrectly.
Most people have unbelievably low prices because they lack experience, have been known to make costly mistakes, or plan on hitting you with hidden fees later on. So, you don’t want to pick someone with too high of pricing but stay away from outrageously low as well.
4 Is Easy To Communicate With
Whomever you choose, make sure they are easy to communicate with. You should feel comfortable asking them questions about your project, and they should always respond in a timely manner. If you can’t talk to them, then big mistakes could be made on your ADU project.
5 Ensure They Know ADUs
You don’t want a general contractor with no experience building ADUs. An ADU is a huge project that takes a variety of skills. You need someone who has at least 3 years of experience working on them.
