ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS HELP DOCUMENTATION
What type of foundation will I need to ensure is constructed before my ADU can be assembled?
The foundation details will be specified on the drawings we will provide and will depend on the geographic location and your preferences. However, common foundation types are concrete, gravel with cinder blocks, or helical piles.
What is included?
Our prices and scope include engineer stamped plans, admin and planning support (up to a set number of hours), delivery (in the Niagara Region), the building envelope, all interior walls and finishing, HVAC equipment, electrical, plumbing, windows, exterior and interior doors, bathroom fixtures, kitchen and countertop, lighting—basically everything typically included in a newly constructed house!
Can I install my own kitchen, or take on other areas of construction?
Absolutely! We are happy to work out an alternative price the factors in any areas you would like to complete yourself.
Do you provide drawings I can submit to the building department?
Yes! You will be provided with plans which can be included with your building permit application. Our structures are designed by a P.Eng in conformance with the CSA Z240 design standards.
What does delivery cost?
Delivery in the Niagara Region is free! Locations outside of the Niagara Region will need to be assessed to determine the best possible price.
How long from the time we order will it take for the structure to be delivered?
Approximately 4 months, factoring in time to finalize the order, production, and shipment.
How long is assembly?
Assuming that the project has been issued a building permit, the foundation construction has been completed, and that all services are available on the site (i.e. electrical and gas), approximately 1-2 months, depending on the interior finishes.
Is customizing an option?
Yes! If you are looking for a different design, we are also able to provide a customized design. Please note that this will result in longer timeframes, so any timeframes listed below do not apply.
What is the warranty you provide?
We stand behind our work. Smart Home Designs Niagara provides a competitive warranty package to ensure you are covered in the case anything may go wrong:
- Workmanship: 1 year
- Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing (MEP): 2 years
- Structural: 3 years
Do you offer financing?
Smart Home Designs Niagara does not offer financing but are here to help as you work through this process.
Does your price include siding?
It does not—but that is because siding is not needed! The Steel SIPs are finished on the exterior side, coated with a film designed to withstand the elements, and available in many different colours that you can choose from.
Will you provide help with a permit application?
Absolutely! Remember, you will already be provided with a P.Eng reviewed and stamped set of drawings that you will use for your permit application. While we won’t submit the permit for you, we are here to help answer any questions you may have on the way, and respond to questions a building department may have as well.
What services do I need to ensure are available?
Electrical, water, and sewer/septic will need to be available at the site where the ADU will be assembled and installed.
Will you help with any grants?
Yes! We are happy to help you with any grant applications. Like the permit application, while we won’t complete the grant for you, we are happy to help you through the process of applying for a grant, such as the program through the City of St. Catharines.
I don’t know where to start, can you help?
Yes! If you would like to build an ADU on your property, but have no idea where to start, happy to sit down and help you start to work through your goals and some next steps. Contact us to book a consultation.