Home / Process
How an ADU gets built, start to finish
One crew from the first parcel lookup to the final inspection, with a clear next step at every stage.
- Parcel checkJurisdiction, zoning district, ADU map, flood zone, lot area and HOA documents.
- Site visitMeasurements, grade and slab heights, electrical panel, sewer or septic, trees and access.
- Design and quoteA plan that fits the setbacks and a written, itemized price.
- EngineeringWind design, flood elevation details and energy calculations.
- PermittingSubmission, review comments, HOA package if needed, approval.
- ConstructionFoundation, structure, roof, openings, utilities, finishes.
- InspectionsScheduled at each stage, with corrections handled.
- FinalFinal inspection and sign-off to occupy.
How long does review take around Tampa Bay?
It varies by office. St. Petersburg cites about 3 to 5 business days for plan review, as of October 2026. Tampa and Hillsborough County do not publish an ADU-specific timeline that we could confirm. Each round of comments adds time, so we aim for a complete first submission.
When will I see a price?
After the site visit and a design, and before any construction. The quote is itemized. If the visit uncovers a low slab, a weak panel or a failing septic system, you hear it then, not mid-build.
What should I gather before the visit?
- The address, and a survey if you have one.
- Any elevation certificate for the house.
- Your HOA declaration and architectural guidelines, if any.
- Who will live in the unit and a working budget.
How long will my project take overall?
It depends on the build type, the office and the parcel. A garage conversion above flood elevation in St. Petersburg is a short path. A two-story garage apartment on a flood-zone lot in an overlay district is a longer one. You get a schedule specific to your project with the quote.
Find out what your lot allows
The parcel check comes first. Send the address to begin.