Don't Get Burned: How to Hire the Right ADU Contractor
So, you're thinking about adding an ADU to your Chula Vista property. Smart move, really. Whether it's for family, rental income, or just some much-needed extra space, an ADU can totally change things for the better. But here's the kicker: finding the right contractor isn't like ordering a pizza online. You can't just pick one and expect everything to be perfect. I've seen way too many homeowners get stuck with crummy work, endless delays, or budgets that just explode. I really don't want that to happen to you.
This isn't about slick sales pitches or fancy websites. It's about finding a solid, dependable contractor who'll get the job done right. Here's what you need to know, straight from someone who's been around the block a few times.
What to Ask Before They Even Look at Your Plans
Remember, you're interviewing them, not the other way around. Don't be shy with your questions. Here are the ones I'd absolutely ask if I were in your shoes:
- Are you licensed and insured? Can I see proof of that? (And always, always check the CSLB website yourself, too. Don't just take their word for it, trust me.)
- How many ADUs have you actually built right here in Chula Vista? I'm not talking about just 'residential projects,' but ADUs specifically. What was the average size of those?
- Can you give me at least three references from recent ADU clients? I mean people whose projects you wrapped up in the last year or so.
- What's your typical project timeline for an ADU of this size? And what happens if you don't hit that deadline?
- How do you handle change orders? What's the process for approving them, and how will they affect both the budget and the schedule?
- Which permits will you be responsible for getting? Will you handle all the back-and-forth with the City of Chula Vista planning department?
- Who will be my main contact person throughout the whole project? And how often can I expect to hear updates?
- How do you manage your subcontractors? Do you use the same crews all the time, or do you get bids for every trade on every job?
- What does your payment schedule look like? I'm looking for clear milestones, not a huge chunk of money upfront.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For (and What to Run From)
Getting a quote isn't just about that final number at the bottom. It's about really understanding what you're paying for. A good quote is detailed; a bad one is vague and leaves way too much up in the air.
- Line-Item Detail: A good quote breaks down costs, plain and simple. You should see separate lines for things like demolition, foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, roofing, drywall, flooring, cabinets, paint, fixtures, permits, and so on. If it's just one big number for ---