An ADU Planning Checklist Before You Request a Construction Estimate

Define how the space will be used

Start with the people and activities the ADU needs to accommodate. Consider the desired bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, storage, and access. Be clear about the preferred size and whether it is an early concept or a developed design.

Those priorities help the project team compare options. Keep assumptions about rental income or property value separate from the construction estimate; they are different questions and should be evaluated independently.

Gather the property information you already have

Share existing plans, a site survey if available, property photos, and information about the current garage or other structures. Point out driveways, narrow access routes, slopes, mature trees, and areas that need to remain available during construction.

Do not assume an existing garage is ready to become living space. Its foundation, framing, roof, and other conditions need appropriate assessment when developing a conversion scope.

Identify the plan and review status

Tell the contractor whether you have a concept, submitted plans, correction comments, or an approved construction set. Provide the latest documents together and identify anything still being revised.

Property-specific eligibility, design limits, and approval requirements should be confirmed with the appropriate professionals and local authority. A construction discussion should not be mistaken for confirmation that a particular design is approved.

Ask about utility and site work

Water, sewer, electrical service, drainage, and access can materially affect an ADU scope. Share known utility locations and any previous evaluations, while allowing for verification rather than treating sketches as confirmed conditions.

Ask whether the estimate includes trenching, connections, service modifications, surface restoration, and work outside the proposed unit. These items can be easy to overlook when attention is focused on the floor plan.

Make inclusions and exclusions visible

Confirm how the proposal treats demolition, site preparation, building work, finishes, appliances, permits, professional services, and landscaping or hardscape restoration. Identify allowances and any items supplied by the owner.

EPIC can discuss detached ADUs and garage conversions around your property information and stage of planning. Bringing the latest documents helps make that first discussion specific.

Explore EPIC ADU construction ↗Start an ADU project conversation ↗