01
Begin with the space that legally exists
We compare available records with the rooms on site and identify which walls, doors, windows, plumbing, electrical work, and heating or ventilation may change. A converted bedroom, garage area, or addition must be understood before it becomes the basis of a plan.
The proposed entrance and relationship to the rest of the house should be clear. Household privacy, emergency egress, storage, and shared or separate facilities affect whether the arrangement works day to day.
02
Understand owner occupancy and the covenant early
Anaheim’s current submittal checklist states that JADUs require an owner-occupancy covenant. It also identifies title documentation and recording steps tied to permit issuance.
Owners should read the current City language and discuss legal or title questions with the appropriate professional. A contractor does not replace that review.
03
Compact work still touches several trades
Interior demolition, framing, fire and sound assemblies, electrical circuits, plumbing, ventilation, cabinetry, counters, finishes, doors, and windows can all be part of the work. Existing conditions determine how invasive the construction becomes.
The scope should also cover protection of occupied parts of the home, dust control, temporary shutdowns, work hours, access, and restoration outside the JADU boundary.
04
Compare the JADU with other options
A JADU may conserve yard area and keep family close. An attached or detached ADU may offer more separation and a different range of layouts.
Choose after reviewing the intended occupant, the existing floor plan, ownership plans, budget, and current City requirements.
City and state references
Public guidance used on this page
Agency instructions can change. Verify the current version when this issue reaches the plans.
Continue from here
Follow the issue into the written scope
Bring us the property
Describe the house and proposed ADU area
Call with the address, project type, and one or two concerns you want the site visit to answer.