Question 1

What is Buildoly?

Accepted Answer

Buildoly is a design-build company that builds accessory dwelling units across Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and the Inland Empire. We are a licensed general contractor, CSLB #1134744, with architects, engineers, and construction staff in house. We build a standard set of models, which is what allows us to commit to an all-in price before you sign rather than an estimate that moves during construction.

Question 2

What sets Buildoly apart from other ADU builders?

Accepted Answer

Buildoly's design system allows you to customize your ADU and get upfront, all-in pricing with a guaranteed timeline. We handle everything from design and permits to move in so that you'll be ready to move into your new home in as little as 8 months.

Question 3

Where does Buildoly build ADUs?

Accepted Answer

We build across Southern California: Los Angeles, Orange County, the Inland Empire, and San Diego.

Question 4

How long does it take to build a Buildoly ADU?

Accepted Answer

Our typical timeline from start to finish is 8-12 months. This breaks down to about 1 month for design, 2-4 months for permitting, and 3-5 months for construction. Timelines are shorter for our City of Los Angeles pre-approved models, where the plan check process is significantly faster.

Question 5

Can I customize my Buildoly ADU?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer a range of layouts, finishes, and features. If you're looking for something more custom, book a free consultation and we'll talk through your project.

Question 6

Are your ADUs built on site or prefab?

Accepted Answer

Our ADUs are built on site using traditional wood-framed structures. This handles a wide range of site conditions and design preferences, and makes future renovations easy.

Question 7

Do you offer a 2 story ADU?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer 2 story ADU models. Book a free consultation to discuss them.

Question 8

Can I add a Buildoly ADU to a property without an existing house?

Accepted Answer

We typically build on properties with an existing primary residence, however our units can also be permitted as a single-family residence. Book a free consultation to walk through your specific situation.

Question 9

Do you handle the permitting process entirely?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we handle the entire permitting process from start to finish.

Question 10

How do I get started with building an ADU?

Accepted Answer

Start by customizing your Buildoly ADU or book a free consultation directly. We'll discuss your goals, assess your property, and provide a guaranteed all-in price for your build.

Question 11

Is Buildoly more expensive than hiring a general contractor directly?

Accepted Answer

Most general contractor bids are based on a rough per-square-foot rate that assumes entry-level finishes. That figure is produced before the project has been designed, so it typically increases as finish selections are made, the layout is revised, and site requirements are identified. We issue our price after the site assessment is complete, at which point all of those items have already been determined. For that reason, the most useful comparison is our price against a contractor's final cost rather than their initial bid.

Question 12

Why not just hire my own architect and general contractor?

Accepted Answer

Hiring separately makes sense if you want a fully custom design and you are prepared to manage the project yourself. The main difference between the two approaches is where the cost risk sits. When you hire separately, your starting figure is based on a design that is not yet complete, so any increase from that point is yours to absorb. Because we build the same models repeatedly, we are able to commit to a fixed price before you sign.

Question 13

Does Buildoly use subcontractors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and so do most other builders. Buildoly holds its own general contractor license, CSLB #1134744. Some projects are executed by our in-house team and others by general contractor partners we have worked with previously, in both cases under our contract and our supervision. Your agreement is with Buildoly either way, and any cost overrun from a trade partner is absorbed by us rather than passed on to you.

Question 14

How does Buildoly compare to a prefab ADU?

Accepted Answer

Prefab units are manufactured off site and craned into position. Two factors determine whether that approach will work on your property: whether a delivery truck and crane can reach the build area, and whether one of the manufacturer's standard sizes suits your needs. Because we build on site, a narrow side yard or an irregular lot shape does not disqualify the project, and the layout can be adjusted to fit. A foundation and utility connections are required in either case.

Question 15

How much does a Buildoly ADU cost?

Accepted Answer

Buildoly ADUs start at $165,000 for our Model S (studio), $195,000 for our Model 1 (1 bedroom), $270,000 for our Model 2 (2 bedrooms), and $360,000 for our Model 3 (3 bedrooms). These are guaranteed all-in starting prices covering design, permitting, and construction. Site-specific costs depend on your lot conditions and are added after our on-site assessment.

Question 16

What's included in the base price?

Accepted Answer

Stamped architectural plans, structural plans, and T24 energy reports; standard finish materials (with optional upgrades); slab on grade foundation; equipment, labor, and materials for typical utility connections; licensed contractor labor and construction including framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation, roofing, and finish installation.

Question 17

What's included in the site work price?

Accepted Answer

The site work price is determined after the on-site assessment and includes: utility upgrades (electric service upgrade, water line upgrade, etc.), unique foundation requirements, demolition of existing structures, site clearing, and landscaping.

Question 18

Do I have to pay the full price upfront?

Accepted Answer

No, we offer a pay-as-you-go schedule so that you're only making payments as work is being completed.

Question 19

What financing options do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a variety of financing options including HELOCs, HELOANs, and renovation loans. For more information and to get your estimated rates, fill out our 1 minute form.

Question 20

Do I need a building permit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all ADUs require a permit from your local building department before you can begin construction.

Question 21

Are your ADUs pre-approved by the City of Los Angeles?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our Model 1 and Model 2 are pre-approved through the City of Los Angeles Standard Plan Program. Pre-approved plans skip the full plan check process, which can save weeks or months on your permitting timeline if you're building in the city of LA.

Question 22

What are ADU setbacks and height restrictions?

Accepted Answer

ADUs typically have a height limit of 16-18 feet and 4 foot rear yard and side setbacks. The exact height depends on factors like proximity to transit and whether the ADU is single or multi-story. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Book a free consultation to determine your project requirements.

Question 23

How much are plan check, permit, and impact fees?

Accepted Answer

Plan check fees are due when you submit your drawings to the city and typically range from $1,000-$2,500. Permit issuance fees are due after plan approval and typically range from $1,500-$4,000. Impact fees on ADUs exceeding 750 sq ft may range between $5,000-$10,000+.

Question 24

Do I have to live in the main house to build an ADU?

Accepted Answer

No. California state law does not require owner-occupancy for a new ADU. You can build one as an investment property and rent both the main home and the ADU. California ADU law is codified at Government Code sections 66310 through 66342.

Question 25

Can I build an ADU with power lines on my property?

Accepted Answer

Yes, however building an ADU on a property with power lines may require additional approvals that we would obtain for you. ADUs typically need to maintain a minimum of 5 feet in horizontal distance from existing power lines.

Question 26

Do I need parking for my ADU?

Accepted Answer

Some ADUs do require parking to be added, however this requirement is waived if the property is located within a half mile of public transportation.

Question 27

Are solar panels required?

Accepted Answer

Newly built detached ADUs are generally required to include solar under the California Energy Code. Garage conversions, attached ADUs, and JADUs are treated as alterations rather than new construction, so the requirement does not apply to them. The system size is calculated from the unit's floor area and climate zone, and small units can fall below the threshold where no system is required at all. Existing solar on the main house does not by itself satisfy the requirement. Your Title 24 energy report confirms exactly what your project needs.

Question 28

Can I build multiple ADUs on one lot?

Accepted Answer

You can build one ADU and one JADU on any lot zoned for a single family residence. On multi-unit properties you may be able to build 2 or more detached ADUs.

Question 29

Can I put an ADU in my front yard?

Accepted Answer

Detached ADUs are typically required to be located in the backyard, however in unique circumstances we've been able to get waivers to build in the front yard. You can build an attached ADU in the front yard as long as you meet front yard setback requirements.

Question 30

What's the maximum size of an ADU in California?

Accepted Answer

In California, the "statewide exemption" ensures that any property can build at least 800 square feet and 16 feet in height. Most jurisdictions allow ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft however may have additional requirements.

Question 31

Can you build an ADU on a sloped or hillside lot?

Accepted Answer

We can build on sloped lots. What we generally do not take on is extreme slope or a true hillside site, where the grading, retaining work, and equipment access change the project enough that a specialist contractor is a better fit. If your lot has meaningful grade, the site assessment is where we confirm whether it works and what the additional site work will cost. Mention the slope early and we can usually tell you quickly whether it is a fit.

Question 32

Can I build an ADU on a property with septic instead of a sewer connection?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can tie the ADU into an existing septic system. What sits outside our scope is the septic work itself. You will need a capacity evaluation to confirm the system can carry the additional load, and any required upgrade to the system is arranged and paid for separately by you. It is worth starting that evaluation early, because the result can affect both your permit timeline and your budget.

Question 33

Will my ADU have a new address?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in most cases an ADU will require its own address separate from the primary home which facilitates the connection of utilities, mail delivery, and distinguishes the ADU as a separate living space for rental or resale purposes.

Question 34

How will my ADU utilities be billed?

Accepted Answer

Electric and water sub-meters come standard with our ADUs, which allows you to use an app to see how much water and power the ADU is using and split your utility bill if desired. We also offer an option to upgrade to separate meters which allows you to get a separate bill from the utility company.

Question 35

Will my electric panel need an upgrade?

Accepted Answer

Most homes are built with a 100 amp electric panel, which needs to be upgraded to 200 amps to support both the main home and ADU. We'll help you determine what upgrades are necessary during our on-site assessment.

Question 36

Are Buildoly ADUs fully electric?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our ADUs are 100% electric as part of our dedication to reducing our carbon footprint and a sustainable future.

Question 37

Will an ADU increase my property taxes?

Accepted Answer

Adding an ADU will increase your property tax by about 1 percent of the ADU's assessed value, however it won't trigger a re-assessment of your primary residence.

Question 38

How much will an ADU increase my property value?

Accepted Answer

ADUs can meaningfully increase the value of your home, though the exact lift depends on your property, neighborhood, and the ADU size and finish. Get a property-specific estimate using our financing tool.

Question 39

How much rent can I get for an ADU?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your city, the size of the unit, and the finish level, so a general figure is not much use for a specific property. On a free consultation we run the numbers for your address and give you a feasibility report with the financial metrics for your project. You can book one at buildoly.com/book.

Question 40

Can I sell my ADU separate from my main home?

Accepted Answer

In some cities. Assembly Bill 1033, codified at Government Code section 66342, lets a city or county opt in by ordinance to allow an ADU to be sold separately as a condominium. It is not statewide, and most jurisdictions have not opted in. In the areas we build, it has been adopted in Santa Monica, Culver City, the City of San Diego, and unincorporated San Diego County. No city in Orange County or the Inland Empire has adopted it. Two things to plan for if you go this route: your lender has to consent before the condominium plan can be recorded, and the condominium is created under the Davis-Stirling Act, which means an HOA is formed over the property.

Question 41

What is an ADU?

Accepted Answer

An ADU (accessory dwelling unit), sometimes called a granny flat or in-law unit, is an attached or detached secondary living space that shares the building lot with a primary home. These spaces have a kitchen and bathroom and offer a simple way to add more space and increase the value of existing properties.

Question 42

What's the difference between an ADU and a JADU?

Accepted Answer

An ADU is an independent dwelling with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entry. It can be detached or attached to the main home. A JADU (Junior ADU) is a smaller, attached unit built within the existing walls of the primary home. JADUs are capped at 500 square feet, require the owner to live in either the main house or the JADU, and can share a bathroom with the primary home.

Question 43

What is SB9?

Accepted Answer

SB9 is a California state law allowing the subdivision of a parcel in a single-family zone into two parcels, and allows you to build up to 2 single family homes and 2 detached ADUs on a single property.

Question 44

Can I rent out my ADU?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ADUs in California can be rented for terms of 30 days or longer. Both the primary home and the ADU can be rented simultaneously.

Question 45

Can I use my ADU as a short-term rental?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your city. California allows local governments to restrict short-term rentals (less than 30 days), and most cities in our service area have strict short-term rental rules. If short-term rental income is your goal, check with your city before you commit to a build.

Question 46

Why should I consider building an ADU?

Accepted Answer

The three common reasons are housing family, generating rental income, and adding value to the property. Which one is driving the decision changes what you should build. A rental usually wants a separate entrance and its own meter, while housing a parent usually wants a single story and accessible fixtures. Whether the numbers work depends on your lot, local rents, and how you finance the build.

Everything we get asked about ADUs.

Getting Started

Buildoly vs. Hiring Your Own Team

Payment & Financing

Permitting Requirements

Utilities

Property Taxes & Value

ADU Basics

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