ADU Planning Checklist

Fri, Jun 26, 2026 By: Adrienne Norris

Planning an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is exciting, but knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Whether you're dreaming of rental income, a private home office, or a comfortable space for family, preparation is the foundation of a successful project.

This checklist breaks the process into simple, manageable steps so you can move forward with confidence.

ADU Checklist

Work through these steps to set your project up for success:

Define your purpose: Decide how you'll use the space, such as a guest suite, rental, home office, or full-time living. Your goal shapes the size, layout, and features you'll need.
Set your budget: Factor in the unit itself, plus site work, foundation, permits, and utility connections. Studio Home offers fixed pricing for cost predictability.
Choose your model and size: Browse models and architectural styles to find the look that fits your home and lifestyle.
Design your space: Use Studio Home’s 3D Design Center to personalize windows, doors, finishes, and layout.
Schedule a free virtual consultation: Speak with Studio Home experts to get any questions you have answered. We’re here for you whether you are at the very beginning of researching or know exactly what you want.

Our team will then guide you through the following:

Evaluate your site: Consider access for delivery, existing utilities, and foundation needs.
Check local zoning and rules: Contact your building department about setbacks, lot coverage limits, height restrictions, and how many structures your property allows.
Confirm HOA approval: If you have a homeowners association, get written verification before moving forward.
Secure permits: Most ADUs with electrical, heating, or cooling require a permit. Studio Home provides permit-ready plans tailored to your build.
Plan utility connections: Coordinate trenching and hookups for electrical, water, and HVAC.
Schedule installation: Confirm your foundation is ready before delivery.

ADU Installation Process

Once your planning is complete, Studio Home guides you through a clear, predictable build. Our panelized system ships flat-packed from Colorado and is assembled on-site. No cranes or heavy machinery required.

Here's how the process works:

Site visit: A network contractor reviews your property and helps complete a site checklist for your estimate and permit set.
Design coordination: Your site plan, floor plan, and elevations are prepared for approval.
Permitting: Plans are submitted to your local building department, which can take 4-12 weeks.
Production: Your unit is manufactured in our factory once permits are issued.
Installation: Installation takes anywhere from a few days for smaller builds to weeks for a full ADU. Much quicker than a traditional build.

Throughout the process, Studio Home's dedicated experts are available to answer questions and keep things on schedule.

Key Considerations

A few important factors can make or break your ADU timeline and budget. Keep these in mind as you plan:

Permits take time: Building department review timelines vary widely. Engage your planning department early to avoid surprises.
Energy codes apply: Any heated or cooled space typically must meet local energy codes. In California, solar panels are required for new conditioned residential buildings.
Foundation readiness: Your foundation should be fully built, cured, and level before your unit arrives.
Site access matters: Delivery trucks need clear access to your build site.
Materials make a difference: Studio Home uses premium construction materials, including Marvin windows, James Hardie siding, and Zip System wall panels, for lasting quality and energy efficiency.

Why Choose Studio Home

Studio Home isn't one-size-fits-all, and it's not fully custom either. It's an engineered panelized system that gives you flexibility without the chaos of traditional builds. You get modern design, predictable costs, and a process managed from start to finish.

Here's what sets Studio Home apart:

Full-service support: We coordinate design, engineering, permitting, delivery, and installation.
Eco-friendly construction: FSC-certified lumber, minimal waste, and energy-efficient materials support greener living.
Endless customization: Millions of combinations of sizes, finishes, and window placements.
Proven track record: 18 years, 6,000+ completed projects, and nationwide shipping with local support.