Supposing you are looking for an ADU, a professionally built modular ADU in the Bay Area is one of the best options.
Unlike other accessory dwelling units, modular units are usually built off-site (away from your property) and only delivered to your home as a complete and out-of-box unit (assembled/finished on-site).
To understand more about modular ADUs installation in Bay Area, our design-and-build experts at Done Right Home Remodeling will help you.
The Modular ADU is different from a stick-built ADU in several ways. These include:
| Criteria | Modular ADUs | Stick-built ADUs |
| Construction Process | Built in a factory and transported to the site for assembly | Built on-site piece by piece |
| Construction Time | Shorter due to being prefabricated in a factory | Longer due to the need for on-site construction |
| Customization | Limited customization options due to factory production | More customization options are available |
| Quality Control | Built in a controlled environment with quality checks throughout the process | Quality may vary based on the experience and skill of the builders |
| Cost | May have higher upfront costs due to factory production | May have lower upfront costs due to on-site construction |
| Durability | Generally more durable due to being built to withstand transportation and being made with high-quality materials | Durability may vary based on the quality of materials used and construction methods |
| Sustainability | May have a smaller environmental impact due to the efficient use of materials and production process | Sustainability may vary based on the materials used and construction methods |
| Permitting Process | May have an easier permitting process due to being factory-built and meeting certain standards | Permitting process may vary based on location and specific requirements |
An increasing number of Bay Area homeowners are going for modular ADUs over traditional stick-built units thanks to their unique benefits, such as:
As much as they can be built quickly, cost-effectively, and in a controlled factory, another great advantage of Bay Area modular ADUs is their scope for design.
With modular ADU design-and-build services at Done Right Home Remodeling, you can create a unit that perfectly aligns with your vision and goals.
When designing modular accessory dwelling units, we evaluate the construction site properly and design your unit accordingly. We also consider clearances around the site, such as overhead wirings and underground pipelines, to ensure the unit will not interfere with them.
Designing the layout of your modular unit should revolve around its intended function and the project’s goals. Understanding these factors will help determine the best layout for the building.
As experienced modular ADU experts in the Bay Area, we recommend that you think about the design with regard to the future of your project. Questions like whether more space will be needed or if the project will expand can help guide design choices for easier modifications.
Your modular ADU will have to withstand the weather around the Bay Area; hence, you need the right materials for your unit. Similarly, the unit’s load conditions must be considered to ensure it can handle its intended use.
Is your site sloppy or flat? If your preferred site is flat, you will have an easier time installing the modular ADU. However, if it is sloppy, we must do a lot of earthworks to level it so your unit can fit well. More importantly, we ensure that the soils are not damaged and that the area is largely stable.
Although off-site construction is typically simpler than traditional building, there are benefits to choosing Done Right Home Remodeling, where you will be part of every step of the process.
The project’s first step involves collaborating with our design team to create customized plans for your modular ADU. We offer professional modular designs for exterior and interior layouts, allowing you to choose and personalize the interior finishes to meet your preferences.
Modular ADUs must be designed per the Bay Area building codes like traditional construction. Our thorough engineering review process ensures that the structure adheres to these codes, enabling us to proceed with construction.
We can help you obtain all necessary permits and approvals for the construction and installation of your modular ADU. Common permits for modular construction include building permits, plumbing permits, mechanical permits, and site plans.
While the modular units are being fabricated off-site, we prepare the installation site for their arrival. This involves surveying the land, excavating and grading it for the foundation, laying down drainage systems, and constructing the foundation on which the modules will be installed.
The module fabrication begins with a frame being loaded onto the assembly line. Base floors, walls, and ceilings, electrical and plumbing services are added. The module is insulated, and interior finishes like painting and flooring are added. Finally, windows and doors are installed, and the module is ready for transportation.
Once the modules are completed, they are transported to the installation site on trailers or tow trucks, depending on their design and intended use.
For permanent or grade foundations, a crane is used to place the modules. For temporary foundations, simpler mechanical methods may be employed.
Once the modules are in place, utility and electrical services are installed and connected, and any necessary fixes are made to ensure the module is fully functional.
To start the construction of your modular ADU in the Bay Area, the initial step is to determine if your property is eligible through our complimentary consultation. We aim to help you navigating the ADU regulations and procedural guidelines in the Bay Area.
| Regulation | Description |
| ADU Size Restrictions | The maximum size of a modular ADU in the Bay Area is 1,200 square feet for attached units and 800 square feet for detached units. |
| Lot Size Restrictions | There is no minimum lot size requirement for building an ADU; however, the total square footage of all structures on the lot cannot exceed the maximum allowed coverage for the zone. |
| Type of ADUs Allowed | Bay Area allows both attached and detached units. |
| Number of ADUs Allowed | Bay Area allows one ADU per lot and a junior ADU. |
| Setback Requirements | Modular ADUs in the Bay Area must be set back at least 5 feet from the side and rear property lines and at least 10 feet from the primary residence. |
| Parking Requirements | One off-street parking space for units not located within a half mile of public transportation. |
| Height Requirements | The height of your unit cannot exceed the height of the primary residence on the property; the maximum height is 16 feet. |
| Utility Connections | The unit must be connected to the primary residence’s water and sewer service. |
| Additional Requirements | San Jose has additional requirements for ADUs related to building codes, zoning regulations, and design standards. For example, ADUs must meet certain fire safety standards and be designed to be compatible with the primary residence and surrounding neighborhood. |
Besides guiding you through the regulations mentioned above, we will also help you obtain the necessary permits, such as:
The modular method of building ADUs in the Bay Area is not a new breakthrough. There are several benefits to this type of unit, including the accelerated building process and major cost savings.
Work with Done Right Home Remodeling, experts in modular ADU construction in the Bay Area, to take advantage of these smart, stylish, and functional units.
The design, fabrication, and installation time for modular ADUs vary based on different factors affecting the building process. Still, on-site installation generally takes between 4-8 weeks in the factory and another 2-4 weeks.
Yes, modular ADUs can be customized to fit your specific needs and preferences. You can work with our Done Right Home Remodeling designers to choose from various design options, including floor plans, finishes, and features, to create a space tailored to your needs.
Like stick-build units, your new modular ADU will last a lifetime. In reality, the lifespan of a modular ADU varies depending on the quality of materials and construction.
Yes, we can design modular ADUs to be energy-efficient, often by using sustainable building practices and materials, including energy-efficient windows and insulation, to reduce energy costs and environmental impact.
Yes, modular ADUs can be used as rental properties. Many homeowners in the Bay Area are building modular ADUs to generate rental income and increase the value of their property.
Various financing options are available for modular ADUs, including traditional mortgage loans, home equity loans, and personal loans. As contractors in the Bay Area, we will help you explore your financing options and find the best solution for your needs.
In the Bay Area, modular ADUs are considered permanent structures and can increase the value of your property. However, they can be removed or relocated if necessary, which makes them a flexible and versatile option for homeowners.
