Once you have an idea of the various routes above that you plan to commit to, it is time to start building your additional dwelling unit. We will touch on the options apart from what we offer and then deep dive into our process for ADU construction and why (we think) it’s the best option available.

DIY Additional Dwelling Units

A do-it-yourself ADU build can be an excellent route if you have the toolset for accomplishment. Questions to ask yourself before diving into a DIY ADU build include:

• Do I have all the necessary equipment and tools?
• Do I have woodworking and finishing skills such as drywall and cabinetry?
• Do I have the electrical skills to complete the build?
• Do I want to navigate permitting?

You may have some or all of the skills listed, and, in that case, DIY may be a good route to take. Keep in mind the undertaking is quite courageous and will require trial and error and some frustrations. You may employ the services of contractors who can help with the skills you are lacking, but this will increase your cost associated with the build compared to doing it all yourself. We are incredibly supportive of our DIY audience and have helped people through all parts of the process.

If you do choose to build an ADU yourself, there are some ideas that can help the project go more smoothly. A build utilizing pre-existing structures can remove a lot of the engineering headaches around your additional dwelling unit. Basement ADUs and garage conversions are excellent options for our DIY crowd due to this fact. If, as a DIY builder, you choose an independent ADU, a DIY shipping container home is an excellent option. These units are pre-fit and built to inspection so you can come in and finish the interior out and barring complicated and specific placement can be dropped off with a tilt-trailer. As long as we can back our trailer into the spot, we can drop off your unit with relative ease.

If you are interested in a DIY container build, reach out to our team of container experts so we can talk through your goals and determine if a DIY build would be right for you.

Backyard Cottages and Junior ADUs

Once you get into the more advanced ADUs, such as backyard cottages and freestanding junior ADUs, you have to consider a lot more since you are not using structures that are already present. This presents its own set of challenges in the form of building a complete structure, permitting, and more. It is highly recommended to work with a general contractor if you choose either of these routes, but is possible to accomplish on your own.