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Subsidary Company of Golden
State Design & Engineering

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    Questionnaire

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • What are ADUs?
      An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is another home on your property. As the illustrations below show, it can take many forms – a separate small home, an apartment over a garage, or in a basement. It can be created by remodeling your existing home and garage or making additions to it, or it can be a separate building.
    • What is the maximum size Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) I can build on my property?
      The general guideline is 1200 square feet, but this can vary based on city regulations and other constraints, such as the size of the primary dwelling, setbacks & etc. (For example: Proposed ADU is limited to be max. 50% of primary dwelling square footage). Contact one of our ADU specialists today to schedule a site walkthrough.
    • Can my ADU have a garage attached to it?
      Yes, you can build a garage attached to your proposed ADU. The size of the garage may vary depending on city regulations, but generally, the rule is that the garage should be 50% or less of the proposed ADU's living area. Do you help with permit submittal coordination?
    • How Long does it take to build an ADU?
      Depending on the size it typically takes 3-5 months for your permit’s plans and Design and 3-4 months for construction.
    • How can I reduce my permitting/Impact fee & save thousands of dollars?
      These fees are based on the valuation of your overall project and includes fees for inspections and development impacts, such as schools and parks. Per State law, if the ADU is equal to or less than 749 square feet, the development impact fees are waived.
    • What are the benefits of build/owning an ADU?
      Learn from real homeowners like yourself who have decided to build an ADU. Link:

    • What are others in California saying about ADUs?
      Hear from local homeowners about how they started planning for their ADUs.

    • Do you provide post project support or maintenance services?
      Yes, we offer post-project support and maintenance services through our construction administration service. Each one of our project come with a 10 year structural integrity warrant and a 1 year fit and finish warranty.
    • Can you provide references or testimonials?
      Certainly! We can provide you with references or testimonials from our satisfied clients who have experienced our services firsthand. These testimonials will give you insights into their experiences and the level of satisfaction they received. Feel free to reach out, and we'll be more than happy to share the testimonials with you. Additionally, we offer previous project walk through and access to all our client review via google.
    • How do I start my ADU project with Golden State ADUs?
      All our project starts with a simple inquired and a 1 hour “initial Project walkthrough meeting” See our process page for more information.
    • What services do we offer for ADUs?
      With our in house parent company Golden State Design & Engineering company we are able to offer full service Design, Permitting and Construction of you Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
    • Can I rent my own ADU?
      Yes, you can rent out your ADU in California. State laws generally allow homeowners to rent their ADUs, either as long-term rentals or short-term rentals, depending on local regulations. Some cities may have specific requirements or restrictions, such as a minimum lease term or registration for short-term rentals. Always check with your local planning department to understand the specific rules and guidelines for renting out your ADU.
    • Are there any financing options available for building an ADU?
      Yes, there are several financing options available for building an ADU. Homeowners can explore options such as home equity loans, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), cash-out refinancing, and renovation loans. Additionally, some local governments offer incentives or grants for ADU construction. It's advisable to consult with a financial advisor to determine the best financing option for your situation.
    • Are there specific setback required for building ADUs?
      Yes, there are specific setback requirements for building an ADU, which can vary by locality. Typically, ADUs must comply with rear and side yard setbacks, which are often reduced compared to those for the primary residence. For example, some jurisdictions allow a minimum setback of 4 feet from the side and rear property lines. Always verify the specific setback requirements with your local planning department.
    • Can I build an ADU on a property with a Homeowners association (HOA)?
      Whether you can build an ADU on a property governed by an HOA depends on the HOA's rules and regulations. While California state law supports the construction of ADUs, HOAs may have specific restrictions or requirements. It's essential to review your HOA's covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) and obtain approval from the HOA before proceeding.
    • Can I build multiple ADUs on my property?
      In California, state law allows for one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) per single-family lot, provided certain conditions are met. The regulations for multiple ADUs on multi-family properties can vary, often allowing for at least two detached ADUs and additional conversions of existing non-livable spaces, such as storage rooms. Always verify with local regulations to understand what is permissible on your property.
    • Can I sell my ADU separately from my primary residence?
      Generally, an ADU cannot be sold separately from the primary residence because it is considered part of the same property. However, there are some exceptions in specific cases where an ADU can be sold as a separate property if the local jurisdiction allows for separate ownership, often through a condominium conversion process. Always check with local regulations and consult with a real estate professional. Note: not all county’s/cities have adopted the SB 36 bill yet, these conditions my vary depending on location.
    • What are the benefits of build/owning an ADU?
      Learn from real homeowners like yourself who have decided to build an ADU. Link:

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