Sheiner Construction Gives Some Advice for ADU Construction in San Diego
Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit in San Diego sounds exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Sheiner Construction, a well-reviewed local builder specializing in ADUs and home additions, consistently shares practical advice based on real-world projects and common challenges. I expanded each tip below to give you a more complete, reader-friendly guide that helps homeowners understand exactly what to expect.
ADU tip 1 : Get Your Permits and Paperwork Ready Early
Sheiner Construction stresses that the permitting phase is one of the most important—and sometimes the longest—parts of the ADU process. Before anyone touches a hammer or lays a foundation, the city needs to approve your project. That includes site plans, zoning checks, floor plans, utility layouts, and environmental reviews.
San Diego has made it easier to build ADUs in recent years, but the paperwork can still feel like a maze. Starting early gives you breathing room and helps prevent delays later. A lot of homeowners assume permits are simple, but one missing document can set you back weeks. Sheiner Construction recommends working with a contractor or designer who regularly handles ADU permits, because they already know what the city looks for and how to avoid back-and-forth corrections.
ADU tip 2. Understand San Diego Zoning Rules, Lot Requirements, and City Restrictions
This is where many homeowners get surprised. Even though California encourages ADU construction, every city—including San Diego—has specific rules for what you can build. Lot coverage limits, setbacks from property lines, maximum square footage, and even parking requirements can affect your design.
Sheiner Construction highlights this as a critical first step. You need to make sure your property actually qualifies and that your planned ADU respects all the boundaries. For example, some lots allow two-story ADUs, while others don’t. Corner lots or hillside lots may require extra engineering. If your yard has big slopes or old retaining walls, expect extra planning and possible soil studies.
Knowing these details upfront saves you from redesigning your ADU halfway through the process.
ADU tip 3. Plan Your Budget With a Realistic Cushion
Even with a clear plan, construction always carries surprises—especially on older homes. Sheiner Construction reminds homeowners to create a budget that covers not only the build itself, but also fees, utilities, trenching, inspections, site prep, and interior finishes.
The smartest thing you can do is include a 10–20% contingency for unexpected issues. For example, old plumbing might need replacing, or you may need an upgraded electrical panel to support the new unit. San Diego’s requirements for energy efficiency can also affect material choices and overall costs.
A well-planned budget prevents “surprise panic moments” later and keeps your ADU project moving smoothly.
ADU tip 4. Design an ADU That Actually Feels Comfortable and Livable
Sheiner Construction isn’t just focused on building ADUs in San Diego—they want them to feel like real homes. That means thinking about natural light, airflow, storage, furniture layout, and how people will use the space daily.
An ADU doesn’t have to feel tiny. Smart design choices—like open floor plans, multi-purpose furniture, well-placed windows, and efficient bathrooms—can make even a small unit feel spacious. Privacy is another big topic. If the ADU will be rented out, you’ll want to separate entrances, patios, and noise-sensitive walls.
A functional, beautiful design also increases your property value and makes the space more appealing to future tenants or guests.
ADU tip 5. Choose a Contractor Who Knows ADUs and Local Regulations (San Diego)
You can hire any general contractor, but Sheiner Construction suggests choosing one with hands-on ADU experience—especially in San Diego. The city has its own quirks, requirements, and permitting habits that experienced builders already know how to navigate.
Reviews for Sheiner Construction often mention their transparency, clear communication, and professionalism, which is important during a long project. When hiring, ask contractors:
- How many ADUs they’ve built
- Whether they handle permitting
- What challenges they expect for your lot
- How they communicate progress
- Whether they use subcontractors or an in-house team
An experienced ADU builder can be the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one.
ADU tip 6. Stay Involved and Keep Communication Clear Throughout the Build
Even with a great contractor, communication keeps everything on track. Homeowners who check in regularly tend to have fewer surprises and feel more confident throughout the process.
Sheiner Construction is known for keeping clients updated, which helps projects stay aligned with the timeline and budget. A weekly or bi-weekly check-in—either in person or through messages—can help you catch issues early and make decisions quickly when needed.
Conclusion
Building an ADU in San Diego can feel like a big project, but with the right guidance, it becomes an incredibly rewarding investment. Sheiner Construction’s approach highlights exactly what homeowners need: smart planning, clear communication, and a real understanding of local regulations. When you take the time to handle permits early, study your lot’s requirements, plan a realistic budget, and design a space that feels comfortable, the entire process becomes far smoother. Pair that preparation with a contractor who truly understands ADUs, and you’re setting yourself up for success.
At the end of the day, an ADU isn’t just another building—it’s extra living space, rental income, or a comfortable place for a family to stay. With these six tips, you can move forward confidently and turn your property into something even more valuable and welcoming. If you stay patient, stay involved, and make good choices along the way, your ADU will become one of the best upgrades you’ve ever added to your home.
