ADU Craft Houston

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How we build your ADU, step by step

Research before design, design before price, price before construction. Here is each stage and who does what.

  1. Lot checkYou send the address. We pull deed restrictions, the plat, the flood map and historic status.
  2. Site visitWe measure, look at any garage, and find the sewer, water and electrical service.
  3. Design and quoteA plan sized to your lot and budget, and a written, itemized price.
  4. EngineeringFoundation and framing design, energy compliance and flood elevation details.
  5. ApprovalsHOA review, historic or CUP hearings where needed, then the building permit.
  6. ConstructionFoundation, framing, roof, rough-ins, insulation and finishes.
  7. InspectionsWe schedule city inspections at each stage and close out any items.
  8. HandoverFinal approval, a walkthrough, and manuals and warranties for the equipment.

Why does the lot check come first in Houston?

Because the things most likely to stop an ADU here are on paper. A deed restriction, a plat note, a floodplain elevation or a historic district can each change what you can build. Finding them before design keeps you from paying for plans you cannot use.

When do I get a price?

After the site visit and a design you have reviewed, before construction. The quote is written and itemized, so you can see the foundation, utilities, structure and finishes as separate lines. If research finds something that changes the scope, such as a required elevation, we tell you before you sign.

How long do approvals take?

It varies by city and by lot. A Houston lot with no restrictions issue and no historic review moves straight to the building permit. A Heights lot in a historic district adds a commission review, and a Pearland ADU adds a conditional use hearing and a council vote. We give you a schedule with the quote.

What should I have ready?

  • The property address and, if you have them, the survey and title policy.
  • Your HOA's name and any architectural guidelines.
  • Any past permits for the house or garage.
  • How you plan to use the unit, and a budget range.

How long will the whole project take?

It depends on approvals, foundation type and how quickly decisions are made. A garage conversion on an unrestricted lot is usually the shortest path; a new garage apartment in a historic district is among the longest. Your schedule comes with your quote.

Check what your lot allows

Step one is the lot check. Send your address to start.