Fast Ball Talk

The fastest way to derail an ADU is to start with finishes before you’ve solved the fundamentals. Before sketches get serious, map constraints: access for crews, utility tie-ins, drainage, and how the unit will sit for sunlight and privacy. These factors often drive cost more than square footage. Weekly check-ins, written selections, and a disciplined change-order process keep momentum without constant surprises. On the build side, prioritize moisture control, insulation, ventilation, and sound separation. Those details determine whether the space feels quiet and comfortable year-round. To anchor your planning and avoid common missteps, start here: adu design build. If you’re collecting bids, ask for a written scope with exclusions listed—this prevents misunderstandings later. When in doubt, simplify—fewer custom details often means faster progress and cleaner results. Keep a short list of non-negotiables so decisions stay consistent as options multiply. A realistic schedule includes ordering lead times and inspection windows, not just a hopeful start date. A realistic schedule includes ordering lead times and inspection windows, not just a hopeful start date. Keep a short list of non-negotiables so decisions stay consistent as options multiply. A realistic schedule includes ordering lead times and inspection windows, not just a hopeful start date.