Clear answers before you commit.

Massachusetts law has reduced many local zoning barriers to accessory dwelling units, but a specific project still has to satisfy building code, health, utility, access, environmental, and permit requirements. Lumara begins with a property review rather than treating statewide eligibility as automatic site approval. Read the Massachusetts ADU guide.

We look at the address, lot configuration, likely setbacks, possible placement, delivery and construction access, utility routes, septic or sewer conditions, and the owner’s intended use. That early screen helps identify obvious constraints before detailed design begins.

There is no responsible single price without reviewing the property. The home is only one part of the project; design, engineering, permitting, foundation, utilities, site work, delivery, installation, and finishes also matter. See our Massachusetts ADU cost guide for the full budget structure.

Permit-ready projects need reliable site information and coordinated drawings. Septic, survey or wetland investigations may need an early scope before full plans. Preconstruction can be one phase or two, depending on the property. Our plans guide explains the difference between concept layouts and property-specific architectural and structural documents.

320 and 640 identify approximate footprints, not measured net interior area. Footprint is only the starting point. Placement also depends on setbacks, usable yard area, trees, grade, fire access, delivery path, crane or equipment access, utilities, and privacy. Use the feasibility guide and ADU Explorer to compare options.

Water, power, sewer or septic, drainage, and sometimes gas or all-electric service must be reviewed against the proposed placement. Distance, capacity, trenching, ledge, paving, and landscaping restoration can materially affect cost.

The plans and engineering must address structure, openings, insulation, air and moisture control, foundation, snow and wind loads, mechanical systems and exterior assemblies for the property. These specifications are confirmed through the project design.

Timing varies with survey and design work, municipal review, revisions, utility coordination, fabrication, site preparation, inspections, and seasonal conditions. Lumara uses a staged process so decisions are made in the right order. See our process.

The construction method, production partners and site logistics are selected and coordinated through project planning. Any off-site work is considered alongside the foundation, utility connections and access. Learn more about our construction and experience.

Send the Massachusetts property address and a short description of the intended use. Lumara can then review likely fit, access, utilities, placement, and early budget drivers before recommending the next paid scope.