How to Plan for an In-Law Suite: A Step-by-Step Guide

Every good home improvement project starts with a plan, especially when you're building an in-law suite. Whenever you're bringing together two separate households under one roof, and planning a remodel to make that possible, it's important to have a solid plan that everyone can agree with.

Collaborating with an experienced Connecticut contractor can make the task easier. Look for a contractor with experience building home additions and new construction homes. Your contractor can use this experience to help you avoid common mistakes and pitfalls along the way. 

1. Make Goals and a Family Plan

Sit down with your family members to plan an in-law suite. Your discussion should be wide-ranging and thorough. Here are some examples of conversations you should have before deciding to move forward with your project:

• Will the in-law suite be separate from the primary house, or will it be an addition? Will there be shared space, like a utility room?
• Will you share meals or spend structured time together?
• Is there an expectation that you will share household chores and bills?
• Will the occupant of the in-law suite need a separate entrance to the space? 

Knowing the answers to these questions is important for ensuring you and your relatives can live happily together. Having these discussions will also help you plan the space where the in-law suite occupants will live. 

2. Choose the Space

Where will the in-law suite be located? Some homeowners build an in-law suite in a separate home (called an "accessory dwelling unit"), while others build an addition on their primary home.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a space for your in-law suite:

• Avoid installing the suite in a place with stairs, especially if the occupant of the in-law suite is an older person. Older people may develop mobility problems in later years, resulting in safely issues entering and exiting the in-law suite. 
• A typical in-law suite includes space for sleeping, a sitting room or living area, a small kitchenette, and a separate bathroom. Choose a space that is large enough for occupants to be comfortable. 

3. Make a Budget

Are you paying in cash or with a loan? If you're financing your remodel, shop for the right loan. Choose a lender you trust and pay attention to the payment terms. You may need to meet with contractors while making your budget to determine an estimated cost. This can help you as you seek to get approval for the right amount. 

4. Vet Contractors and/or Architects

It's important to choose the right Connecticut contractor for your project. Some homeowners also need an architect for their project, depending on their design needs. The contractor will let you know if your project warrants an architect. 

When you're vetting contractors, take these steps:

• Vet multiple contractors before choosing a construction firm for your remodel.
• Have a list of questions prepared to ask each contractor during your meetings.
• Check references before hiring a contractor. The references should come from clients who hired the contractor to do similar work on their home. 
• Read the contract thoroughly before signing. Ask questions if there are parts of the contract that you don't understand.

5. Approve a Design

Whether your in-law suite is being designed by an architect or a design-build contractor, it's important to communicate your goals and budget to ensure that the final design will be successful. 

The more you communicate up front, the better the experience. Work with current members of your household and the future occupants of the suite to approve the design, so everyone will be happy with the outcome. 

6. Have a Plan for Life During the Remodel

Major renovations can be noisy and disruptive. Having a plan for life during the remodel can help reduce stress and frustration. Here are some tips:

• Know the timeline for your remodel, including start date, finish date, dates when loud equipment will be used, and dates when electricity or water may be shut off. Communicate with your neighbors if needed. 
• Have a plan to keep kids and pets out of the construction zone. 
• If your renovation will involve time when your kitchen or bathroom is unusable, put a plan in place for staying comfortable at home. Your contractor can help with this. 

7. Maintain Open Communication Throughout the Process

Maintain open communication with your contractor throughout the remodeling process. Your contractor may give you a single point of contact, or multiple contacts for communication on different topics. Touch base with your contractor regularly for updates on your project's progress.

8. Run Through the Punch List

Building an addition or an ADU can take several months. When the work is nearing completion, your contractor will walk you through the jobsite to make a punch list of work that still needs to be done. Include others in your household - including the future occupants of the suite. Everyone needs to be satisfied with the work that's been completed. 

Plan for an In-Law Suite With a Contractor You Trust

The contractor you choose to build your in-law suite makes a big difference in the success of your project. Selecting the best Connecticut contractor can be a challenge. Here are some tips:

• If you're on a tight timeline, don't wait to start looking for contractors. The best contractors are often booked weeks or months in advance. 
• The lowest-cost contractor is rarely the best contractor for the job. Be prepared to pay a fair price for quality work. 

For help with this project, download our free guide to Choosing a Home Remodeling Contractor in Connecticut. If you're ready to vet a contractor with experience, contact Litchfield Builders to schedule an in-home renovation.