Blogs

What an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is, the types of ADUs, what California law guarantees, and how an ADU gets built in the Bay Area.

What a junior ADU (JADU) is under California law: 500 sq ft limit, efficiency kitchen, entrance, owner occupancy, and how it compares with an ADU.

How Los Altos handles electrical service for detached ADUs: shared or separate meters, required subpanels and load calculations, underground service, and what we did on our 1,200 sq ft ADU.

Which backyard projects need a permit in Bay Area cities: pools and spas, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, retaining walls, pavers and turf.

What California requires to turn a garage into a legal ADU: parking, setbacks, ceiling height, fire separation, energy code and utilities.

Comparing a backyard ADU and a home addition: how each is permitted, how they use your lot, and which fits your plans.

The steps to build a backyard ADU in the Bay Area, from checking your lot and California ADU law to design, permits and construction.

NOAA expects a strong El Niño this winter. Here is a roof and siding checklist to get your Bay Area home ready before the storms.

Bathroom renovation on a budget begins with careful planning and budgeting. Start by setting a realistic budget that includes materials, labor, permits, and