ADU Design & Drafting Services
Universal Drafting & Design creates high-quality, permit-ready Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) plans tailored to your property, goals, and code requirements. Whether you’re building a detached ADU, adding an attached suite, or converting an existing garage or interior space, we deliver designs that maximize livability, functionality, and long-term value.
Our team handles every step — from layout concepts and structural coordination to energy compliance and final drafting — ensuring your ADU is designed for efficiency, comfort, and approval on the first submission.
ADUs are one of the smartest investments for expanding living space, generating rental income, or creating housing flexibility for family members. We make the entire process simple, accurate, and fully aligned with building department standards.
What’s Included in Every ADU Design
A detailed set of architectural plans, including floor layouts, elevations, sections, and details that clearly communicate every element of your design. These drawings form the foundation of your build and ensure accuracy during construction.
A required document for energy code compliance, the Title 24 report confirms that your home design meets modern energy efficiency standards. Our in-house team prepares this report with precision to streamline the approval process.
Detailed HVAC load, duct, and system sizing calculations that ensure your home’s heating and cooling systems are both efficient and properly designed for comfort and code compliance.
An essential environmental compliance document outlining proper material disposal and recycling practices during construction.
Structural specifications that define the proper concrete strength and mix ratios to ensure durable foundations, slabs, and structural elements.
A braced wall system is a code-prescribed method of resisting lateral loads, such as wind and earthquake forces, in light-frame construction by using designated wall segments reinforced with approved bracing materials. These braced wall segments are strategically located and tied together by floor and roof diaphragms to transfer lateral forces safely to the foundation. This system is a prescriptive design approach defined by the building code and does not rely on project-specific engineering calculations when constructed within code limits.
Complete truss and framing details that guarantee proper roof support, load distribution, and code-approved materials.
Coordination with building departments to address and resolve any plan review comments, guaranteeing your plans are approved as efficiently as possible.
A site-specific geotechnical analysis that evaluates soil conditions, bearing capacity, and drainage characteristics for safe and stable construction.
A detailed survey and plot plan that maps your property boundaries, grading, and existing site features to ensure accurate placement and design alignment.
Documentation confirming compliance with floodplain regulations for properties within designated flood zones.
Grading, drainage, and utility plans tailored to your site’s topography, ensuring proper runoff control and long-term structural integrity.
A shear wall system is an engineered lateral force–resisting system designed to resist wind and seismic loads through continuous vertical wall elements that act as vertical cantilevers. Shear walls are specifically sized and detailed by a licensed engineer using calculated design forces, material strengths, and load paths to transfer lateral loads from diaphragms through the wall elements and into the foundation. This system relies on project-specific engineering analysis rather than prescriptive code provisions.
Additional Services Required in Specific Cases
- Structural Engineering – For non-standard framing, complex rooflines, or added loads, a structural engineer may be required to review and stamp the plans.
- Topographic Survey – Needed for properties with slope, tight setbacks, utility conflicts, or site-specific elevation requirements.