DO YOU NEED A PERMIT TO REMODEL A KITCHEN IN CALIFORNIA ?

 

DO YOU NEED A PERMIT TO REMODEL A KITCHEN IN CALIFORNIA

Enthusiastic about giving your dated kitchen a fresh look? We spend much of our time inside the kitchen preparing food, eating with family, or even having a cup of coffee with a friend. It is one of the loveliest places inside our home.

Hence remodeling a kitchen can be an exciting project but also a daunting prospect. Unless you are doing a simple upgrade, like repainting existing cabinets or changing a countertop, you will likely need one permit or more to make sure what you do is legal and safe.

In this blog, MDM Custom Remodeling will walk you through the kitchen activities that typically require permits and those that don’t, how to get a kitchen remodel permit, as well as the risks of not getting a permit when you should.

Kitchen remodel work that typically requires a permit

• Plumbing: Adding a new sink or removing an old one, changing sink location, adaptations to sewer lines, installing new outdoor faucets, sometimes even replacing a water heater. That is because this type of work requires changes to the water supply and drain pipes.

• Structural: If you want to alter, demolish, or add new walls, exterior doors, or skylights, you’ll have to obtain a building permit. Sometimes non-load-bearing wall removal also requires a permit. 

Also, if the wall you plan to alter conceals electrical conduits, air ducts, and pipes, you’ll require an additional electric, mechanical, or plumbing permit for the ensuing change to this infrastructure. 

• Electrical: Any time you remove, alter, or install an electrical circuit, you’ll need to get an electrical permit.

For example, you will need a permit if you are moving your electric range to a new place because it requires a dedicated 240V circuit.

Also, you cannot move your fridge or microwave to a new location where they will be sharing the current with other appliances and overload the power circuit.

• Ductwork changes: It includes new air conditioning, rerouting existing ventilation systems, installing a new range hood or moving the existing one to a new location. That is because range hoods rely on ducts to drive out the fume produced while cooking.

 

Kitchen remodel activities that may not need a permit

Simple kitchen remodeling activities that you can do yourself are usually possible without a permit if they don’t require any new plumbing, wiring, or ventilation.

• Apply new wall coverings — You can paint walls or apply wallpaper, without notifying the building authorities. 

• Repaint or change cabinets — You can sand and restrain or repaint existing cabinets without any problem. You can also take them down and install new cabinets if they are in the same location.

• Replace countertops — You won’t have to get a permit to replace an existing countertop. 

• Replace existing light fittings — You can replace an existing light fixture if the circuitry is already in place.

• Change a sink — You can install a new sink and remove the old one as long as you don’t alter the existing plumbing.

• Replace an existing faucet

• Refloor your kitchen

• Install new appliances if there is no need for additional electrical work.

• Otherwise, you will need an electrical permit.

 

How do you get a permit to remodel your kitchen?

You can apply to your local authorities for any necessary permits yourself, but MDM Custom Remodeling recommends you seek the aid of professionals in this arduous process. It may be a more expensive route, but it takes the stress out of the process.

A reputable kitchen remodelling company should be familiar with how the local building authorities process applications. It will take care of the entire permit process, including creating plans, submitting paperwork, collecting fees and attending inspections.

What happens if you don’t have a permit?

You can face multiple challenges if the building department finds out that your kitchen remodel required a permit, but you failed to apply for one. Any failure to acquire a building permit is a violation of California’s Building Code.

Any breach of Business and Professions (B&P) Code sections 7110 and 7090 subjects the violator to punitive action by CSLB, comprising civil penalty charges of up to $5,000 per violation.

Not applying for permits when you should create problems for yourself with the sale or refinancing of your home. You could also face extra fees and fines and experience delays when you apply for any permits in the future. Additionally, the authorities may ask you to rework your kitchen to comply with the local building codes.

Not applying for permits when you should create problems for yourself with the sale or refinancing of your home. You could also face extra fees and fines and experience delays when you apply for any permits in the future. Additionally, the authorities may ask you to rework your kitchen to comply with the local building codes.

Be prepared before you start the work for inspection and possible delays

Plumbing and electrical permits are sometimes issued shortly after you apply for them. While building permits for structural changes typically take around one month to 6 weeks.

You may also experience delays if there is a need for inspections. They are part of the permit approval process. The authorities visit the work site to ensure that the completed work meets all building codes.

If the inspection fails, they ask you to make more changes that will require a further visit for approval. The authorities may then visit you once the work has been completed or even during the progress of the project which may cause further delays.

What is a building permit?

A building permit has an extensive list of action items. They can be:

• Demolition Drawings
• Fundamental Drawings and Computations
• Structure Elevations
• Mechanical Drawings
• Electrical Drawings
• Site plan and/or Grading Plan
• Plumbing Line Drawings
• Technical Requirements
• Architectural Floor Plans

 

Work through the permit process with help from the professionals

Take the stress out of your kitchen remodel project. Consult with a professional contractor or home renovation company that saves you time and money and avoids your frustrations by ensuring that you have all the proper building permits. 

Step every day into a place that you love, into a spectacular kitchen where you can share special moments with your family and friends.

TIPS ON HOW TO FIND A HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR NEAR ME

 

TIPS ON HOW TO FIND A HOME IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR NEAR ME

Home improvement projects can be a great way to improve the functionality, aesthetic, and value of your home. However, finding the right contractor to handle your project can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the process. In this post, we’ll be sharing some tips on how to find a home improvement contractor near you that you can trust, and providing more detailed explanations to ensure you are well informed about the process. 

Ask for Recommendations: One of the best ways to find a reputable contractor is through word-of-mouth recommendations. Ask your friends, family, and neighbours if they have any experience with local contractors and if they’d recommend them. Not only can they give you a first-hand account of their experience working with a particular contractor, but they can also provide valuable insight into the quality of workmanship, communication, and overall professionalism. If you’re a member of a local business community or homeowners association, you can also ask for recommendations from your fellow members. These groups often have a list of preferred and trustworthy contractors that they have worked with in the past. 

Research and Check Reviews: Once you have a list of potential contractors, it’s important to do your own research to find out more about their work, reputation, and customer satisfaction. Check online review sites like Yelp, Angie’s List, and the Better Business Bureau to see what previous customers have said about the contractors you’re considering. It’s important to read both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded perspective on their work. It’s also important to keep in mind that just because a contractor has only positive reviews, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are the best choice. You should always investigate and verify the information found in online reviews. 

Verify Licensing and Insurance: Make sure that any contractor you’re considering is licensed and insured. A licensed contractor should have a current contractor’s license number and be able to provide proof of insurance. This is important to ensure that they are legal and authorized to do the job, and that they carry liability insurance to protect you from any possible accidents or injuries that may occur during the project. You can check the contractor’s license on the website of the professional licensing board of your state, or by contacting the board directly. 

Get Multiple Bids: When it comes to home improvement projects, it’s always a good idea to get multiple bids from different contractors. This will give you an idea of what to expect in terms of cost and timeline for your project, and it will also help you compare different contractors’ qualifications, experience, and communication styles. This will provide you with a clear understanding of what your project will cost, and give you the opportunity to negotiate the price and terms with the contractor you choose. It also gives you the chance to identify if any estimates are too high or too low, and to look out for any red flags.

Ask for references: Ask the contractors you are considering for references from previous clients. Contact them and ask them about their experience with the contractor you are considering. This can give you a good idea of the contractor’s work ethic, professionalism, and attention to detail. This can also be an opportunity to ask the references any questions you may have, and to get a sense of the contractor’s communication style and how well they work with their clients. 

Get everything in Writing: Once you’ve selected a contractor, make sure to get everything in writing. A written contract should include details about the project, payment schedule, and timelines. This will help to protect both you and the contractor, and will ensure that everyone is on the same page about the work that needs to be done. This will also provide clear and written proof in case of any disputes or misunderstandings that may arise during the project. Not only does it ensure that you both agree about the scope of work, but it also provides legal protection if the work is not performed as agreed or if any damage or accidents happen during the project. 

Check for certifications and awards: When looking for a home improvement contractor, it’s important to not only check for licensing and insurance but also for certifications and awards. These can give you an idea of the contractor’s level of expertise and knowledge in specific areas of home improvement. For example, if you’re planning a kitchen remodel, look for a contractor with a certification in kitchen design or remodeling. If you’re looking for a contractor to do energy-efficient upgrades, look for a contractor who is certified in energy-efficient construction and has received awards for their work in this area. 

Look into their experience and portfolio: When you meet with a contractor, be sure to ask about their experience in the field. Find out how long they have been in business, and ask to see their portfolio of completed projects. This will give you an idea of the scope of their work and the quality of their craftsmanship. A good contractor will be happy to provide references and examples of their work, and should be able to provide pictures of their completed projects, both before and after. 

Check for communication and responsiveness: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a contractor is their level of communication and responsiveness. A good contractor will be easy to reach and will respond promptly to your calls and emails. They will also be able to explain the process and answer any questions you may have in a clear and concise manner. A contractor who is difficult to reach or who takes a long time to return calls or emails is likely to be unreliable and may be a source of stress during your home improvement project. 

In conclusion, finding a home improvement contractor near you doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By asking for recommendations, researching and checking reviews, verifying licensing and insurance, getting multiple bids, asking for references, and getting everything in writing, you can increase your chances of finding a trustworthy and reliable contractor who will do a great job on your project. Remember, take your time and don’t rush into hiring a contractor, this could lead to a costly mistake.

WORKING WITH A TRUSTWORTHY CONTRACTOR FOR YOUR NEXT HOME PROJECT

 

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a home improvement project is choosing the right contractor. Finding a trustworthy contractor can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the industry. The last thing you want is to hire a contractor who cuts corners or leaves the project unfinished. In this article, we’ll provide some helpful tips on how to find a trustworthy contractor for your next home project, and we'll give you access to a trustworthy remodelling contractor in Los Angeles for do-it-yourself home improvement tasks.

Determine your project needs: Before you start looking for a contractor, it’s important to determine your project needs. This includes the scope of the project, the materials you want to use, and your budget. Make a list of the specific features or changes you want to make to your home and prioritize them. This will help you communicate your needs clearly to potential contractors and ensure that you receive accurate estimates. Be realistic about your budget and to factor in additional costs such as permits and unexpected expenses. By having a clear idea of your project needs and budget, you’ll be better equipped to find a contractor who can meet your expectations. Take Sarah’s kitchen project for example:

Sarah and her husband have decided that it’s time to remodel their outdated kitchen.

They have a general idea of what they want to accomplish with the project but need to determine their specific needs before starting the search for a contractor.

First, they discuss their must-haves for the new kitchen. Sarah loves to cook and wants a larger stove and a more functional layout, while her husband wants more counter space and modern appliances. They also want to update the cabinets, flooring, and lighting.

Next, they research different kitchen styles and designs to get inspiration for their project. They save pictures of kitchens they like and make note of the specific features they want to include in their new kitchen.

After determining their project goals and preferences, they set a budget for the project. They decide on a maximum budget of $40,000, which includes the cost of materials, labor, and any unexpected expenses.

To get a better idea of the cost of the project, they visit home improvement stores to get estimates for the materials they want to use. They also research the cost of similar kitchen remodels in their area to ensure that their budget is realistic.

Finally, they create a prioritized list of the features they want to include in their new kitchen, with their must-haves at the top of the list. This will help them communicate their needs clearly to potential contractors and ensure that they receive accurate estimates.

By taking the time to determine their project needs, budget, and priorities, Sarah and her husband are able to start their search for a contractor with a clear idea of what they want to accomplish with their kitchen remodeling project.

Seek out recommendations: Word of mouth is one of the most effective ways to find a trustworthy contractor. Ask friends, family, and neighbors if they have any recommendations for contractors they’ve worked with in the past. You can also check with your local home builders’ association or other professional organizations for referrals. When asking for recommendations, be sure to inquire about the quality of the contractor’s work, their communication skills, and their reliability. It’s also a good idea to ask to see the completed projects of the contractors that are recommended to you. This can give you a sense of their style and skill level. By gathering recommendations from trusted sources, you can narrow down your search for a contractor and feel confident in your choice.

With their project needs and budget in mind, Sarah and her husband begin asking for recommendations for contractors who specialize in kitchen remodels. They reach out to friends and family who have recently had kitchen remodels and ask about their experiences with their contractors.

One of Sarah’s coworkers highly recommends a contractor who recently completed a kitchen remodeling project for her. She shares photos of the finished kitchen and raves about the contractor’s attention to detail and communication skills.

Feeling confident in the recommendation, Sarah and her husband reach out to the contractor to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, they discuss their project needs and budget, and the contractor provides them with an estimate for the project.

However, Sarah and her husband decide to reach out to a few more contractors before making their final decision. They ask for additional recommendations from their home builders’ association and search online for highly rated kitchen remodeling contractors in their area.

After gathering several estimates and meeting with multiple contractors, they ultimately decide to go with the contractor recommended by Sarah’s co-worker. They feel that the contractor has the experience, communication skills, and attention to detail they’re looking for and that their project needs align well with the contractor’s expertise.

By gathering recommendations from trusted sources and meeting with multiple contractors, Sarah and her husband are able to find a trustworthy contractor for their kitchen remodelling project.

Meet with the contractor in person: It’s important to meet with the contractor you’re considering in person before hiring them. This will give you a chance to discuss your project in detail and get a sense of their communication skills and professionalism. During the meeting, ask the contractor about their experience with similar projects, their availability, and their approach to the project. Be sure to communicate your project needs and budget clearly and ask any questions you have about the process. The contractor should be able to provide you with references from previous clients, as well as a detailed estimate for the project. Take note of the contractor’s communication style and overall demeanor during the meeting. You want to work with someone who is responsive, communicative, and professional. After meeting with multiple contractors, you should have a clear sense of who you feel comfortable working with and who is the best fit for your project needs.

Sarah and her husband arranged to meet with the contractor in person to discuss their project needs and goals in more detail. During the meeting, they went over the plans they had created with their designer and discussed the specifics of the project, including the materials they wanted to use and their timeline for completion.

The contractor was professional, communicative, and attentive to their needs throughout the meeting. He took the time to listen to their ideas and provided them with valuable feedback and suggestions. He also offered them a detailed estimate that aligned with their budget.

Feeling confident in their choice, Sarah and her husband officially hired the contractor for their kitchen remodeling project. Throughout the project, the contractor kept them updated on the progress and communicated any unexpected delays or issues promptly. He also stayed within their budget and completed the project on time.

Thanks to the recommendation from Sarah’s coworker and their careful research, Sarah and her husband were able to find a trustworthy contractor who was able to bring their vision for their kitchen to life.

Stay involved in the project: Once the project begins, it’s important to stay involved and communicate regularly with your contractor. Make sure you understand what is happening at each stage of the project and ask any questions you may have. If issues arise or changes need to be made, don’t hesitate to communicate with your contractor right away. This will help ensure that the project stays on track and that everyone is on the same page. Additionally, make sure to be available for any necessary site visits or inspections. This will allow you to stay informed about the progress of the project and ensure that it meets your expectations.

Sarah and her husband made a point to stay involved in their kitchen remodeling project from start to finish. They communicated regularly with their contractor, asking questions and discussing any concerns that came up along the way.

At each stage of the project, they made sure to review the progress and offer feedback. They were careful to be available for site visits and inspections, making sure that the work was being done to their satisfaction.

By staying involved in the project, Sarah and her husband were able to catch a few minor issues before they became major problems. They were also able to offer suggestions and ideas that ultimately improved the outcome of the project.

Thanks to their involvement and communication with their contractor, Sarah and her husband were able to ensure that their kitchen remodeling project was completed on time, within budget, and to their satisfaction. They were thrilled with the end result and felt that their involvement throughout the process had played a key role in its success.

Working with a trustworthy contractor is essential to the success of your home improvement project. By following these tips and taking the time to research potential contractors, you can ensure that your project is completed with peace of mind and a job well done!

KITCHEN REMODELING – HOW TO UPDATE THIS SPACE ON A BUDGET!

 

So, you want to update your outdated kitchen to make it look stunning and functional. But you are on a tight budget! In Los Angeles, you will find many reliable contractors who have the expertise to handle kitchen remodeling projects within your budget. The ideas they suggest can change the overall look of your kitchen without putting a dent in your pocket. Want to explore some of these? Read the entire blog!

A Few Low-Cost Ideas for Kitchen Remodeling

Are you on a limited budget? But you wish to have a modern kitchen! Listed below are some clever ideas for affordable updates.

 

Stick to Existing Kitchen Layout

Changing the current kitchen layout can consume a considerable amount of your kitchen remodeling budget. Moving plumbing, walls, cupboards, electrics, and so on may take this home improvement project into big money. And doing this task involves a lot of hassles. The timeline of this project may increase. Hence, if you are satisfied with your kitchen layout, it’s better to stick to it.

Add a Backsplash

Adding a backsplash can do wonders to amp up the personality of a kitchen. You can go for a simple backsplash, such as white subway tiles with oak cabinets. If you have a small kitchen, patterned ceramic tiles can also make a big impact. These are inexpensive but beautiful. Visit Yelp to know more in this regard.

Upgrade Lighting

Update the lighting can refresh the look of your kitchen and make it easier for you to work in your cooking space. So, look for modern but inexpensive light fixtures. You can add pendants over the kitchen island. Also, opt for tiny white lights underneath the cabinet, which will illuminate the counter. 

Open Up the Space

Removing some of the upper cabinetry can transform the look of a kitchen. Most importantly, it can make your kitchen more functional. Open shelving is an excellent way to display the kitchen essentials you use along with some items, such as cookbooks, herbs, etc. Visit our kitchen gallery page to witness how it looks.

Paint Your Kitchen

A simple way for a budget-friendly kitchen remodel is to paint. You can lighten up a tired and gloomy space by applying a fresh coat of paint with bright colors. This idea works best to make your kitchen feel spacious.

We hope, these guidelines will point you in the right direction. But you can also explore more about kitchen remodeling ideas as well as kitchen remodeling contractors in Los Angeles, California by reading our other blogs. Keep in touch!

SMART TIPS TO PICK NEW TILES FOR A BATHROOM REMODEL

 

The tiles in a bathroom are undoubtedly a key feature. They can be used in colorful and decorative ways to add style to this space. But when it comes to choosing tiles for a bathroom remodel by the bathroom remodeling contractor Los Angeles, panning is essential. In Los Angeles, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with numerous tiling options. That is why we have highlighted a few guidelines in this blog, which will help you choose the right ones for your bathroom. Keep reading!

How to Choose the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom Remodel advised by the bathroom remodeling contractor, Los Angeles

Opt for Light Colors

Do you want to have a light and airy bathroom? Then it’s best to choose the light colors of tiles. Go for the tiles of off-white, white and other light colors, which will make you feel about your bathroom is spacious. But make sure you choose grout colors that don’t contrast sharply with the tiles.

Make Sure the Tiles Are Easy to Clean

Bathroom cleaning is truly a big hassle for homeowners, especially if you are busy with your hectic schedules. Hence, it’s wise to go for tiles that are easy to clean. Porcelain or ceramic tiles are easy to clean. Besides, less grouts in between tiles also result in easier cleaning. Explore our more traditional bathroom designs to know more in this regard.

Choose the Tiles That Are Slip-Resistant

It’s one of the vital facts for choosing bathroom tiles. Slate can be a sound choice if you prefer a darker tone in your bathroom. Besides, having more grouts in between tiles can make a bathroom slip-resistant. In this regard, it’s also best to add small tiles to the floor of a walk-in shower and larger tiles for the remaining parts. But remember, glass bathroom tiles can be extremely slippery.

 

Consider the Style of Your Bathroom

Before choosing bathroom tiles, consider the overall style of this space. Make sure you choose the option that suits your bathroom design, which can increase the aesthetic appeal of this space. Otherwise, the overall look of your bathroom may be spoiled.

Also, you need to know what services are provided by bathroom remodeling companies in Los Angeles.

HOW TO BUILD AN ADU ABOVE YOUR GARAGE IN LOS ANGELES?

Do you have a wonderful little space above your garage in Los Angeles that could make an exceptional accessory dwelling unit? You’re in luck! The California state government recently relaxed the formerly strict laws about creating an accessory dwelling unit above a garage. If you don’t currently have a finished space that can be converted to an ADU above your garage in Los Angeles, you can certainly create one. It’s a great idea to take advantage of the unused space and enjoy the revenue from another income stream or expand your living area to include the benefits an ADU can bring.

 

Why an ADU Over Your Garage is a Good Idea?

A garage space is fantastic for your vehicles and extra storage options, but what about the space above? As space is at such a premium in Los Angeles and southern California, it makes sense to build up. A garage with an ADU above that contains a bedroom, living space, kitchen, and bathroom can bring in nice rental income from either long-term or short-term tenants. In addition, the ADU adds square footage to your property, which can boost your property value.

 

But there’s also the bonus of having an extra space you can use for family or friends. As multi-generational households become more common, an ADU above the garage can provide the additional dwelling area and privacy necessary to ensure harmony in the home. If you already have space for everyone but that leaves privacy, and quiet time at a premium, you can use that newly-finished space as a home art studio or recording space, a workout area, an office, or a cozy getaway.

 

If you ever choose to sell the home, the ADU can be pretty appealing to potential buyers; Forbes reports that many homeowners are willing to pay more for homes that have a garage with an ADU above, as it provides them with flexibility in using the space for whatever they might want – a home gym, an office, or just an excellent place for grandma to visit.

 

If you are planning to use your ADU to generate rental income from tenants, get up to speed with the rules set forth by the City of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Housing Department offers in-depth information on renting out accessory dwelling units. Make sure you can stay compliant with the rules before you make the decision to turn your ADU above the garage in Los Angeles into a money-making rental property.

 

Digging Into the Finances: ADU Above the Garage Costs

Building an ADU over the garage in Los Angeles means adding an additional story over the existing space, which qualifies as significant construction.

Regardless of the work required, the costs of an ADU above your garage can vary widely depending on the contractor you choose to work on the property. Those costs also depend upon the following:

 

• Any refinishing required for the exterior of the building
• The materials you choose for the ADU
• Aligning the ADU above an attached garage with the second floor of the home
• Reinforcing the garage foundation to accommodate the added weight
• Reconfiguring or installing utilities
• Adding a new roof and interior and/or exterior stairs
• The age of the house and how much work must be done to bring it up to modern code
• The overall design: for instance, an outdoor staircase might cost less than an indoor one

 

So what are the ballpark figures? The average cost of detached new construction above a garage runs from $260,000 and up, depending on design and size. That’s assuming approximately 400 square feet of a two-car garage plus a 400 square foot ADU above, including the stairway.

That might seem like a lot of money, but keep in mind that you can create additional income with that space, which can eventually offset the costs of your investment. When it comes time to sell the property, a well-constructed ADU can increase your selling price.

 

Building an ADU Above the Garage in Los Angeles

When you start to consider building an ADU, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with all the things you’ll need to do from the start of the project to the completed space. Breaking it down into small, manageable steps is the key to getting the job done without compromising your sanity.

 

1.Start with ADU Concept Design

 

Begin by asking yourself some fundamental questions about how you intend to use the ADU. Are you looking for income by making your ADU a short-term or long-term rental property? Do you want a cozy home office or gym? Is this intended to be a getaway space for you or the whole family, perhaps a game room or a den dedicated to watching sports or movies? Will the ADU eventually become a home recording studio? Or will you be creating the space for a family member, such as a mother-in-law suite?

 

Once you know your intention for the space, you can move on to creating the Concept Design. You could hire MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. to create the Architectural Concept Design, which will include the floor plan, interior, and exterior view design, 3D rendering, and 360 degrees panoramas with a virtual walk-through. This lets you experience walking through your finished ADU project virtually before you invest even one dollar in construction or blueprints. This Concept Design Service by MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. includes searching city and county records to verify what the local zoning and building code allow in your area. This Concept Design also includes an accurate budget plan, which provides you with an accurate cost of the project before you commit to the high cost of construction. Your contractor will use these guidelines to build the ADU to the proper specifications.

 

2. Clear the Plans with the City of Los Angeles

 

The ADU Concept Design you get from MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. will comply with the regulations for Los Angeles. This will be the foundation of the complete set of blueprints MDM Custom Remodeling Inc. will create for you to ensure the project is approved by the city. The plans must be officially approved by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety. This step is vitally important to ensure that you are in compliance with all the laws and regulations. After approval, you can start the process of applying for a construction permit.

 

3. Consider the Funding

 

There are numerous options for financing an ADU, including your current cash on hand, a loan or line of credit based on your home equity, a renovation or construction loan, a cash-out refinance of your home, and more. Take your time in choosing the right option before you move into the construction of your ADU.

 

4. Get a Reliable Contractor

 

When hiring a contractor, look for one that has significant experience in building ADUs, especially those that are built over a garage in Los Angeles. Not only does seasoned contractor understand what it takes to build a safe ADU over your garage, but they also know their way around the permit process and the new regulations and rules regarding accessory dwelling units in Los Angeles and southern California.

 

You don't need to worry; we will select a reliable contractor for your garage. You may build a strong and secure garage with the help of an ADU contractor in Los Angeles.

5. Be Involved in Selecting Finishing Materials

 

While construction of your new ADU is in progress, you’ll need to select the finishing materials you’d like to install. This can include windows, doors, roofing materials, interior, and exterior finishing, plumbing and electrical fixtures, AC system, tiles, flooring, paint colors, and more. Use your contractor’s help to get these materials at discount prices to save money.

 

6. Finishing Tips

 

Select colors to paint the space in a way that not only makes it look bigger but makes it more appealing to potential tenants. Grey and white have dominated the painting space in recent years, but now the colors that get attention are light-intensity earth tones, blues, and, yes, the ever-present greys. Choose those for your wall and look for furniture that complements them.

 

7. Cast Your Eye Toward Potential Storage

 

Make furniture work double-duty by opting for smart storage solutions, such as ottomans that open to create space for blankets and drawers hidden away underneath the bed. Just as you built upward with your ADU over the garage, consider going up with storage – tall armoires, high cabinets, and even racks dropped a foot or so below the ceiling can be great to tuck away small items and keep the rooms looking light and airy.

 

8. Timing

 

Make sure you can trust your contractor to commit to the completion date. Check the contractor’s background with previous customers who had a project of a similar size to yours. Ask those customers how long it took to complete their project. Did the contractor complete the work right on time or even ahead of schedule?

 

When you choose to build your ADU over the garage at your Los Angeles home, the keys to success include good planning, a smart architect, following all the rules and regulations set forth by the state and local governments concerning ADUs, and finding the right contractor for the job. It might seem like a lot to handle, but the end result is worth doing the right way.