Adding an ADU to your Georgia property can provide extra income, guest space, or a flexible home office, but one of the biggest questions homeowners ask is: How long will it actually take to build? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Construction timelines can vary based on everything from permits and design choices to site conditions and material availability.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors that influence ADU build times, outline the typical stages of construction, and share tips to help your project stay on track so you can enjoy your new ADU as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Factors That Affect ADU Construction Time
The timeline for building an ADU in Georgia can vary depending on several key factors. As a full-service design-build firm, Georgia ADU helps homeowners navigate each stage efficiently, minimizing delays and ensuring a smooth process. Here’s what influences construction time:
1. Design and Customization
Your ADU’s design directly affects the build timeline. While Georgia ADU offers standard ADU models, we also provide customization options. Adjusting layouts, selecting finishes, or adding unique features may extend the design phase, but it ensures your ADU meets your specific needs and lifestyle.
2. Permits and Approvals
Local zoning laws, building codes, and permit requirements can impact how quickly construction begins. At Georgia ADU, we handle all permitting, inspections, and approvals, keeping your project on track without unnecessary delays.
3. Construction Method and Complexity
Stick-built ADUs, like the ones we specialize in, involve foundation work, framing, utilities, and interior finishes, all of which affect timelines. More complex projects or multi-bedroom units naturally take longer than smaller, simpler designs.
4. Site Conditions
The condition of your property, including grading, utility access, tree cover and existing structures, can influence how quickly construction can start. Our team assesses each site thoroughly to plan for any prep work, ensuring the project moves efficiently.
5. Material Availability and Crew Scheduling
Timely delivery of materials and coordination with skilled crews are essential for keeping your ADU on schedule. Our established relationships with suppliers and our experienced construction team help avoid common delays.
Typical ADU Timeline by Stage
Understanding the different stages of ADU construction can help you set realistic expectations and plan your project effectively. While every build is unique, here’s a general timeline for a stick-built ADU with Georgia ADU:
1. Design & Planning Your ADU (5–10 weeks)
- Obtaining a survey (many municipalities require a survey inclusive of boundary, topography, trees and impervious surface)
- Creating a site plan
- Choosing a model and customizing your ADU layout for your specific needs and site.
- Selecting finishes, fixtures, and features from our design catalog.
- Working with our design team to finalize a floorplan to be sent to the architect
- Creating architectural and engineered drawings
2. Permitting & Approvals (4–12 weeks)
- Submitting the survey, site plans and architectural drawings for zoning, building, and utility permits.
- Addressing inspections or revisions required by local authorities.
We handle the entire permitting process to keep your project moving smoothly.
3. Site Preparation & Foundation (1–3 weeks)
- Clearing and grading the site.
- Laying foundations, utility hookups, and any necessary site improvements.*
*This outdoor work is very weather dependent. In Georgia, the rain usually plays more of a factor than the cold as we need adequate time between rain showers for a concrete slab to cure.
4. Construction (8–16 weeks)
- Framing, roofing, and exterior finishes.
- Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC installation.
- Interior finishes including drywall, flooring, cabinetry, and fixtures.
5. Final Inspections & Handover (1–2 weeks)
- Passing all code inspections.
- Ensuring the ADU meets quality and safety standards.
- Handing over the keys and celebrating your new space!
Total Timeline: Most Georgia ADU projects take approximately 4 to 9 months from start to finish, depending on customization, site conditions, and complexity.
Tips to Expedite Your ADU Build
Building an ADU doesn’t have to be a slow or stressful process. At Georgia ADU, we help homeowners navigate the timeline efficiently, but there are also steps you can take to keep your project moving smoothly.
Partner with a Full-Service Design-Build Firm
Working with a team that takes care of design, permitting, and construction keeps every phase of your ADU project coordinated and stress-free. At Georgia ADU, we handle approvals, inspections, and contractor scheduling, so you don’t have to worry about the details. This means you can relax a little, enjoy watching your project come to life, and focus on planning how you’ll use your new space.
Finalize Design Decisions Early
Choosing your ADU’s layout, finishes, and fixtures before construction starts can make a big difference in keeping the project on track. Making decisions early helps the team stay on schedule while still creating a space that’s fully customized to your needs and style.
Communicate and Respond Promptly
Keeping up with timely feedback on design choices and approvals helps the project move smoothly. At Georgia ADU, we make sure communication is simple and clear, so you always know what’s happening next and can make decisions without feeling rushed.
Plan for Material Availability
Some finishes or specialty items may take longer to source. By selecting materials in advance or planning for lead times, you can avoid delays and keep your ADU on track without sacrificing quality.
By following these tips, you can help your ADU project stay organized and stress-free, without compromising on design, quality, or functionality.
Plan Your ADU Build Timeline with Georgia ADU
Adding an ADU to your property is an exciting investment, and understanding the construction timeline helps you plan effectively. While most projects in Georgia take 4 to 9 months from design through completion, factors like customization, site conditions, and permitting can influence the schedule.
At Georgia ADU, we streamline the entire process, from design and permitting to construction and handover, ensuring your ADU is built efficiently and to the highest standards. By partnering with a trusted ADU design-build firm, you can enjoy a smooth construction experience while creating a functional, beautiful, and profitable addition to your property.
Contact us today if you’re within the metro-Atlanta area to get started on your ADU project and receive a free consultation and lot assessment.
