How to verify a property is ADU-eligible before you close escrow in Los Angeles County
If you're buying a property with plans to add an ADU, you need to run a feasibility check during escrow — not after you close. Here's exactly how to do it.
Contact a reputable ADU contractor the day escrow opens
The moment you open escrow, reach out to a reputable ADU contractor. Don't wait. They'll loop in their architect and walk through a feasibility study for the specific ADU you have in mind — whether that's a detached unit, a garage conversion, or something else entirely.
A good contractor will already know the setbacks that apply to your property type and city. Under California state law, detached ADUs are generally allowed with four-foot side and rear yard setbacks — but local ordinances, lot constraints, and easements can all complicate that. That's exactly what the feasibility study is designed to catch.
If you're still in the research phase and haven't made an offer yet, check out what I look for before buying an investment property in OC or LA — ADU potential is always near the top of that list.
Get your preliminary title report and hand it to your contractor
As soon as it's available, pull your preliminary title report and send it straight to your contractor. The prelim is a property-specific document that shows a plot map of the lot along with any recorded easements, utility corridors, or other encumbrances that could eat into your buildable area. It usually comes within a few days of escrow opening.
This matters more than most buyers realize. An easement running through the back half of a lot can eliminate your setback clearance entirely and kill an ADU that looked viable from a satellite view. Corner lots tend to have more flexibility here, which is part of why they're a favorite among ADU investors.
The virtual feasibility meeting
Once your contractor has the prelim, they'll set up a virtual meeting with you. They'll use satellite imagery alongside the title report data to assess feasibility in real time — going over lot dimensions, setback clearance, access points, and whether the ADU you have in mind is actually buildable on this specific property.
In some cases they can meet you at the property in person, but heads up — some contractors do charge for site visits, so ask upfront.
If the feasibility check comes back green and you're thinking about what's next, take a look at how to finance a multi-unit ADU — because you'll want that lined up before permits even start.
