I am not yet ready to build, how much time should I allow for plans, permits, building, etc.?
This is a really important question.
If you have never been through this process before it is easy to underestimate how long it will take to get everything ready to build and get your project completed.
Every single project has its own timeline as each client is different, the home is usually different, the property is always unique, and the local jurisdictions each have their own way of doing things. Delays will happen and it’s not possible to predict which delay while set a project back. To give you an example of a delay that made no sense but set a project back three months, the Building Department had everything done and they said that the only thing left was for the Fire Department to assign an address to the ADU.
We contacted the Fire Department multiple times by phone and by email, both the client and I. After a 3 month delay on that, the Building Department finally chose to come up with a solution in that it’s just something that the Fire Department needs to provide before the Certificate Of Occupancy is issued.
In our humble opinion, it shouldn’t even take 3 months to permit an ADU, let alone have the client wait 3 months for something which has little to do with the actual building of the ADU.
It is for this reason that we always recommend that our clients start their plans long before they want to build. The brand new 2025 building code just came out on January 1, 2026 so we won’t have major building code changes for the next three years. And if you are officially submitted to the building department then you are allowed to build under that code, even if the code does change.
We want to know as much as you can share with us so we can put together a strategy to assist you in accomplishing your goals. We ask that you provide us some basic information about your project by signing up on the web-site and then we can talk on the phone, exchange emails, or set up a GoogleMeet to discuss things more personally.
Here are some of the first things often discussed:
Property Details
Design Ideas
Goals
Budgets
Permitting
All other things being considered, we recommend that you start your plans at least 6-12 months before you want to build.
If things magically happen faster than anticipated, the building permits don’t have to be picked up right away, or you can also later file for an extension.
If the plans are started late and issues do come up (which they almost certainly will) then there is no way to make up for that time lost in the beginning.
Please note that we are not encouraging you to rush into something you aren’t fully comfortable with, take the time to do your research, get your questions answered, and then make the decision to start on your plans long before you want to have the home occupancy ready. While we of course would like for you to build with us, this is just good general advice in whatever direction you choose to take in building your home.
Steps to Build a Modular Home in California
Check out our FAQ page read more in-depth answers to the most commonly asked questions about modular homes.
Step 1:
Secure Land
Having a property is usually the first step in building your dream home.
Without land, it is hard to choose a home model or determine what the balance of your budget for building is.
Step 2:
Modular Feasibility Study
This is where one of us comes out to meet you at the property and determine what size modules can be delivered.
There is a fee for this service but it’s a credit on the price of the home.
Step 3:
Choose Home Model
We now know what size modules can be delivered. You can choose a home model that meets your requirements. Start with the smallest one you will consider and work your way up to your dream home.
More detailed info about building California
Check out our Modular Steps to Building page for more detailed information about building a modular home throughout the state of California.
Step 4:
Working on Plans
This is where you start working with us on the plans for your Factory Built Home (Modular).
There are costs involved in the modular home plans but they are a credit on the price of the home.
Step 5:
On-Site Pans
You will needs some plans for the on-site portion of the project:
Topographical Survey
Civil Engineered Site Plans
Soils Report
Foundation Plans, etc.
Step 6:
Permitting
Now that your plans are completed it is time for submission. We have an Optional Permitting Service or we can introduce you to someone to help you.
Expect plan check revisions, rarely do plans get approved on the first or second submission.
Home Floor Plans & Pictures to Review
Take a look at hundreds and hundreds of images and floor plans of our homes. Your home can look exactly how you want it, you are only limited by your imagination & budget.
Step 7:
Contractor Interviews
We do know a few General Building Contractors that we can introduce you to. They are familiar with modular home and can certainly help you.
Sometimes though you may have a qualified local contractor you’d like to work with, this is also your decision to make.
This is one of the most exciting parts of building a modular home. You get to see all of your hard work being delivered to your property.
You get to sit back, take pictures, and watch the show.
Then you get to walk through your house!!!
Step 8:
Modular Home Delivery & Set
Step 9:
Completion of Modular
Your General Contractor will work to secure the modules to the foundation, connect the cross-overs, finish whatever on-site work there is, etc..
From there, the City/County will review and provide your Certificate of Occupancy. Time to move into your dream home!
Congratulations!!!
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