Starting Construction on ADU in LA - things to be aware of?

[Anthony Denaro]

I'm about to start construction of a two story ADU, 800 soft, in my backyard in the city of LA on the east side of the city. Permits are ready to issue and GC is in place. I'm cautiously optimistic. It's an a relatively dense R2 zone, and most of my neighbors are single family or duplexes.

Curious if anyone has recent experiences with Los Angles Dept of Building & Safety and what you've been experiencing - wait times for calling inspections, delays with utilities/DWP?  Also any good pointers or tips on how to manage neighbors etc would be welcome.

[Rick Albert]

Every location in LA is different because they are different inspectors. Last I heard they are still short staffed so be prepared to have some delays.

In terms of playing nice with the neighbors, just make sure your GC keeps the area as clean as possible. Neighbors are going to get pissed no matter what. I had my neighbor claim that the bobcat for the sewer line shook her house and caused foundation damage. Be prepared to push back.