Questions families ask before they build

The words overlap, and the city has used different terms and rules at different times. We use ohana unit for a small second home built for family and ADU for the city's category. Which rules apply to your lot is the first thing we check.

Sometimes. It depends on the lot, the size of the unit and what the water board requires. We ask early because it runs beside plan review.

If your house is on a cesspool or septic system, a new unit or extra bedrooms may need a wastewater review or an upgrade. State rules are moving cesspools out of use. We tell you what applies to your lot.

Some lots must keep or add parking. We check yours at the lot visit and tell you in writing before you spend on drawings.

Rules for long-term and short-term rental differ and have changed. We won't plan a unit around rental income. Ask us what your lot allows, and confirm it with the city.

The permit review is the longest and least certain part, then ordering and shipping, then the build. We give a range for each in writing before any contract.

Almost never. A unit built behind the house or under it leaves the main house alone. A suite inside the house may close a room for a few weeks.

We stop, show you with a photo and give you the options and the price in writing before we go on.

If your house was built before 1978, the EPA's lead-safe rule applies to paid work that disturbs paint. Minor repairs have a narrow exception, and window replacement and demolition never do. We test or assume lead, contain the work and clean up to the rule.

Our license number is in the footer of every page, with a link to the state's license search. Check it before you sign with anyone.

No. If you plan to borrow, ask your lender early. We'll give them the scope and the schedule they ask for.

Our own workmanship, in the terms in your contract. It lists what is covered, for how long and what is not.