As fall settles into Union City, homeowners are starting to think about how to make their space more livable. Many of us want more room without the hassle of moving. That’s where ADUs come in. Accessory dwelling units, or backyard cottages, offer extra space for guests, aging parents, or even a home office.
We’ve noticed a lot of talk around town about ADU companies and what they do. Some of it’s helpful, but some just isn’t true. If you’re thinking about adding an ADU, misreading the process can slow things down or steer you in the wrong direction. Let’s take a closer look at a few common myths, so you can better understand what working with ADU companies really involves here in Union City.
Myth: All ADU Companies Are the Same
Not all ADU companies offer the same level of planning, service, or knowledge about local requirements. Some might design buildings but leave out help with permits. Others may focus on building but skip over things like space planning or making sure the design flows with your home.
- Each company brings its own way of working, which can affect how smooth (or stressful) your project becomes
- In Union City, zoning laws and permit steps can take time, working with someone who knows the process can save you headaches
- Choosing a company based on low costs or fast promises can sometimes lead to poor planning, lost time, or surprise fees later on
Local knowledge matters. Rules in Union City are different from places nearby. Picking someone who speaks the city’s language and understands where delays can happen helps keep your project from stalling out halfway through.
Decor Builders Inc handles both attached and detached ADUs, working through city-required permit steps, and customizes projects to fit your property and neighborhood guidelines.
Myth: Building an ADU Always Takes Forever
We hear this one a lot, and it’s easy to believe when someone shares a bad experience. But the truth is, the amount of time an ADU takes can depend on more than just who’s doing the actual building.
- Delays often come before the first nail is even hammered, planning, design choices, permit approvals, and inspections all play a part
- Clear decisions and consistent planning keep things moving faster
- Union City’s fall weather helps too, it’s mild and predictable, making it one of the better times of year to get construction started
If you start in the fall, there’s a good chance the project hits big milestones before winter weather causes delays. And when your paperwork is ready and your layout decisions are made ahead of time, builders can work without pauses or confusion.
Our experienced team at Decor Builders Inc streamlines the planning and design process by managing everything from city submittals to materials selections, keeping your timeline on track without missed steps.
Myth: ADUs Are Only for Rentals
Some people think of ADUs only as units to rent out. That’s certainly a popular use, but it’s not the only one. Many homeowners use their ADUs in personal ways that add value and comfort to daily life.
- ADUs can be guest houses, home offices, playrooms, art studios, or even a quiet space for older relatives
- You don’t have to lock into one use, some homeowners keep the space flexible to change as their needs do
- A well-used ADU improves how your property functions, even if no one outside your family lives there
We’ve seen ADUs used for remote work, tutoring sessions, exercise rooms, and quiet getaways just steps from the main house. You choose what works best for you now and have options left open for down the road.
Myth: You Can Skip Permits if the Space Is Small
Some people think a small structure means you can skip permits. That’s not the case, especially here in Union City where nearly all ADU builds require approval from the city.
- Even a smaller guesthouse needs permits to keep everything safe and legal
- Skipping permits can lead to stop-work orders, fines, or issues when you try to sell the property
- A good ADU company won’t just build, they’ll help you follow all the city steps from beginning to end
Permits might sound like a hassle, but they’re there for reasons like safety, fire access, and zoning. Getting them right upfront keeps you from having to undo finished work later. And when everything’s up to code, your home’s value improves, not just its size.
Myth: ADUs Lower Privacy for the Main Home
Some homeowners worry that an ADU means giving up privacy. But design makes a big difference here. When done with care, ADUs can blend in without being intrusive.
- Smart layouts place entrances and windows to avoid overlapping sightlines
- Using fencing, hedges, or driveway separation creates more than just visual space
- In some cases, an ADU can even give more privacy, especially if it replaces a space that used to be shared, like a crowded guest room
Privacy comes down to how the new unit fits with the main home. Builders who understand common lot sizes in Union City can suggest layouts that protect quiet zones, keep walkways clear, and respect both sets of residents.
Union City ADU Planning Is Smoother When You Get the Facts First
Believing the wrong things about ADU companies can lead to missteps, delays, or skipped steps you’ll end up fixing later. But when you understand the process clearly, you feel more in control.
Right now, as Union City heads into fall, it’s a smart time to think through changes while schedules are steady and weather supports safe building conditions. Clearing up what’s real and what isn’t helps you make stronger choices you’ll feel confident in from the start. Whether you’re adding space for family, work, or future plans, having the facts lets your project move forward with a lot less guessing.
Homeowners in Union City who want to add space that combines comfort with long-term value can benefit from learning how different ADU companies manage design, permitting, and local building requirements. We understand the importance of feeling prepared before making major changes to your home. At Decor Builders Inc, our team is here to guide you through your options, minimize surprises, and help you plan your ADU with confidence, contact us today to get started.