Category · Process
Process guides.
Build quality, factory vs site-built, eligibility, and what to expect at each step.
11 guides
Process
What Foundation Does a Prefab ADU Use?
A prefab ADU from Framework First sits on a real, permanent foundation poured on-site, either a concrete slab or a raised foundation, while the home is built in parallel in the factory.
September 28, 2026 · 6 min
Process
How Does ADU Crane Delivery Work?
How Framework First delivers a finished ADU: truck transport from the Salinas factory, a same-day crane set onto your pre-poured foundation, and the site access a crane and trailer need.
September 19, 2026 · 6 min
Process
How Do ADU Utility Hookups Work?
How water, sewer or septic, electrical, and gas hookups work for a new ADU, and how Framework First decides between connecting to your home's existing service or running a new dedicated line.
September 18, 2026 · 6 min
Process
Do I Need an Architect for an ADU?
No, you generally don't need to separately hire an architect for an ADU. Plans just need to be prepared and stamped for permitting, and a factory builder like Framework First already includes that in-house.
September 15, 2026 · 6 min
Process
Does an ADU Need a Separate Utility Meter?
A separate utility meter is not required for most ADUs. Learn when a shared meter works, when a separate one makes sense, and how to decide for your project.
September 15, 2026 · 4 min
Process
ADU Electrical Panel Upgrade Requirements
Does building an ADU mean upgrading your home's electrical panel? Here's how the decision gets made, who makes it, and what to expect during planning.
August 26, 2026 · 5 min
Process
How Long Does It Take to Build an ADU? (California Timeline)
A realistic ADU build timeline for California, from first call to move-in. Why factory-built homes finish in 4 to 9 months while site-built takes 16 to 24, broken down week by week.
August 24, 2026 · 3 min
Process
Does an ADU Need Its Own Address?
Many California cities assign a separate address to a detached ADU for mail, utilities, and emergency response, but the exact rule is set locally, not by state ADU law. Here's how it works.
August 23, 2026 · 6 min
Process
How Is an ADU Built? (Factory-Built vs Site-Built, Step-by-Step)
Inside how a Framework First ADU is built, 97% in a climate-controlled Salinas factory, crane-delivered in one day. Materials, quality control, and what makes factory-built homes stronger than site-built.
August 2, 2026 · 9 min
Process
Garage Conversion to ADU in California: Costs, Permits, and Whether It's Worth It
Converting a garage to an ADU in California, typical costs ($80K to $160K), permit pathway, what you keep vs lose, and how it compares to a new factory-built ADU.
May 29, 2026 · 8 min
Process
Can I Build an ADU on My Property? (California Eligibility)
A plain-English checklist for whether you can build an ADU in California, lot size, setbacks, parking, and the state laws that make most single-family lots eligible by right.
May 26, 2026 · 3 min
Other Categories
Pricing
What an ADU actually costs, how the price is built up, and where the money goes.
Financing
HELOC, construction loans, cash-out refi, and how to fund an ADU without a $300K bank account.
Permits
California ADU law, city-by-city permit timelines, and what blocks an ADU build.
Buying Guide
Comparisons, decision frameworks, and the practical math of building an ADU.
Local Guides
City-by-city permit processes, timelines, and rules across our service area, cited to official sources.
Comparisons
Model-by-model and option-by-option comparisons to help you choose with confidence.
Ready For The Real Numbers?
Let's see what these guides mean for your lot.
Reading is great. Knowing what's actually possible on your specific property is better. Tell us a bit about it below, and a real person on our team will follow up, free, no pressure.
- A shortlist of which models actually fit your lot
- Honest flags on anything property-specific, like slope or septic
- A clear next step, whether that is a factory tour or a feasibility study
- No pressure, and no obligation
Building more than one? If you're a real estate developer or investor planning multiple units, let us know in the form. We offer better pricing at volume.
“My first telephone conversation with Cathy (Owner) was one of the best, positive and kind discussions. She was thinking outside of the box and provided a possible solution like a family member. Thank you.”
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