2022.02.01 WS Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

3534 In this step you will… • Learn about types of development teams. • Find out what information to prepare when contacting a company. • Review suggested considerations for hiring a company and signing a contract. Types of Companies and Their Roles There are a number of ways homeowners can get the help they need to design and build their ADU. Most homeowners choose one of three types of development teams: ARCHITECT + CONTRACTOR/BUILDER: The homeowner hires an architect to complete the design of the ADU and then hires a contractor/builder to construct it. DESIGN-BUILD FIRM: The homeowner hires a design-build firm that will, as the name implies, design and build the ADU. DIY: The homeowner acts as the general contractor, coordinating the overall project and hiring subcontractors for specialized work. Remember, while being your own designer and/ or general contractor can save money, it is an involved process and will likely add to your overall timeline, especially if you cannot devote yourself to it full time. Consider, too, that professionals often bring problem-solving skills that save time and money. A homeowner may also specifically look for designers and builders who specialize in modular or prefabricated-construction methods. A homeowner typically works with an architect to revise an existing ADU design template and the builder arranges for shipment of the building components, prepares the site for delivery and completes finishing touches. What to Prepare There are a few basics you’ll want to prepare before contacting designers and builders. GOALS: First, go back to Step 1 to review your goals. Understanding your goals will help your architect create a design that’s right for you. BUDGET: Next, you’ll want an initial budget. The cost of ADU construction can vary dramatically (for example, from $10,000 to $350,000) depending on ADU type, site and finishes. Your builder or architect can help narrow the price range. The financing available to you will also help determine what you can afford (See Step 4). SUPPORTING INFORMATION: Bring along your property information, a survey and any sketches you made in Step 2 to share with potential architects or builders. Hiring a Team An ADU is a long-term personal investment for most homeowners, so it is important to have a development team that understands your vision and with whom you can communicate well. Below are key questions to help you choose a design and development team. Be sure to get bids from multiple designers and builders. COST AND SERVICES: What will the firm charge and what services are included? CREDENTIALS: Has the firm built other ADUs, or completed remodels or new construction at a similar scale? Does it have experience with your municipality’s permitting process? Always verify professional licenses and business addresses: • for contractors • for architects, designers and engineers COMMUNICATION AND PROCESS: Do you feel that you are being heard and are you receiving responses in a timely manner? Signing a Contract When you’ve decided which firm(s) you want to hire, a final contract should detail the work they will do and all costs. The contract is a legal promise by both you and the company to complete the tasks outlined within it. The contract is a foundation for good communication between you and your team. Make sure everything that you discussed is included in the contract. For example, if you are building an above-garage ADU and want to reuse your old garage door, make sure that’s noted. You have the right to add or modify elements of the contract, even after it is signed, by using a change order. TEAM SELECTIONSTEP THREE Building a team ADU it yourself? This section is primarily aimed at homeowners with little or no experience in construction or construction management. Homeowners who feel comfortable managing the development of their ADU may still find some helpful tips to keep in mind when hiring subcontractors. TIP The following is a helpful list of what your contract should include: • contractor’s license number, name and address • total project cost and payment schedule • start date and timeline • list of work to be accomplished and materials to be used • work (if any) to be subcontracted • specific terms about what constitutes substantial “completion of work” • the terms of warranties • a provision requiring the contractor to obtain lien releases from all subcontractors and suppliers (to protect the homeowner if a subcontractor claims they were not paid) • a cancellation penalty (if any) • plan for cleanup and removal of material and debris • any special requests (such as saving scrap lumber or bricks) • requirements for protecting property and landscaping • areas where materials may or may not be stored • any instructions regarding children or pets CREDIT: San Mateo County 2018