- Tue Feb 17, 2026 8:06 am
#12738
If you’re hiring for an ADU, treat it like hiring for a full home build—because it is, just smaller. Review comparable projects and look for consistency—clean scopes, predictable timelines, and details that show good coordination across trades. Small upgrades like better insulation, air sealing, and right-sized HVAC can deliver comfort you notice every day, not just on paper. When you compare proposals, watch for hidden allowances and missing site work (trenching, drainage, restoration). A detailed scope beats a low number that’s full of blanks. If you’re building a shortlist, start with custom adu builders and turn it into questions for your contractor. When in doubt, simplify—fewer custom details often means faster progress and cleaner results. When in doubt, simplify—fewer custom details often means faster progress and cleaner results. When in doubt, simplify—fewer custom details often means faster progress and cleaner results. 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. A realistic schedule includes ordering lead times and inspection windows, not just a hopeful start date.
