Building a ADU in backyard

[Darian Sanayei]

I'm trying to build a ADU in my backyard. I am doing owner builder so hiring subs for each job. I have been struggling finding fair priced reliable contractors in my area. If anyone knows a good go to in Temecula California. I am building ground up so any contractors that do framing, plumbing, electrical, roofing, etc. Helps!

Thank you

Murrieta Menifee Winchester Temecula Riverside

[Sean Walton]

I haven't done this ground up but I have done 2 interior remodels. The first I hired a separate framer and subs. On the 2nd I hired all licensed trades but separately. I would check with your insurance agent and the city. A lot of cities require you to get a work comp policy if you are an owner builder unless you hire all people with their own policies. Some contractors are licensed but have no staff just them so they are exempt from work comp so if they injure themselves you could be on the hook. Your homeowner policy may cover minor repair work but probably not a large construction project. 

I ended up having to get a state fund work comp policy for $5000 which I think is the minimum amount regardless of scope. If you have no track record that would probably what you would have to do. Factor it into your cost and decision. 

It is cheaper, in general, to sub out like you say but if you have no experience sequencing the work and talking to subs you may be scarring them off. They don't want you saying to start in 2 weeks but your framer takes longer and now they can't start for 4 weeks. If your project takes 4 months instead of 2 by hiring a GC it may end up costing more in the long run.