Start with the purpose.
Decide who will use the space and how. A home for a parent may call for different access and storage than a rental. Make a short list of essentials and a separate list of nice-to-haves.
Gather the property information.
Bring your address, available plans, a simple sketch of the lot, and photos of existing structures. Identify the construction access route and any known utility or drainage concerns.
Choose a planning path.
Compare a custom design with your jurisdiction’s standard or preapproved plan options. A standard design does not replace property-specific review. Confirm the current requirements with the city.
Compare complete proposals.
Ask what is included in design, engineering, permitting, demolition, utilities, finishes, and cleanup. Discuss allowances, exclusions, payment stages, change orders, and the requirements before work begins.
Planning resource: Los Angeles ADU Standard Plan Program. Confirm current requirements for your address.