Keep The Family Together: Complete Guide to Planning In-Law Suites

The first step in planning your in-law suite is to determine its layout. Consider the essentials, such as a bedroom, living area, kitchenette, and bathroom. Think about your loved ones’ needs and the flow of the space. It’s worth noting that electrical and plumbing work tend to be some of the most expensive aspects of additions, so cutting out adding a kitchen or bathroom to your new space can save tons of money.

Ensure that the in-law suite maintains a level of privacy and independence for its occupants. Separate entrances and a distinct living area can help achieve this balance. Other options to consider are soundproofing adjoining walls, or adding smart technology to enable easier, more convenient use of the space.

Consult your local zoning regulations to determine if in-law suites are permitted in your area. Some regions may require special permits or adhere to specific guidelines.

Some regions have specific regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units, which can include non-attached in-law suites. Familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure compliance.

Select a reputable contractor with experience in building additions and in-law suites. A few key points:

• Ensure your contractor is licensed and insured using the State of CT License Portal. 
• Ask for past customer reviews, photos of past projects, and even to speak with their previous customers.
• Check reviews online: Good websites include Angi HomeAdvisor, Houzz, Yelp, Google My Business, and Better Business Bureau.
• Ensure your contractor has all the in-house tools you need: Do you need an architect? An interior designer? Adding these on separately can heavily increase costs.
• Make sure your personality is a good fit: You want someone you trust and feel comfortable with in your home.

Discuss the construction timeline with your contractor. Understand the estimated duration of the project and any potential delays.

Maintain open and regular communication with your contractor throughout the construction process. Asking how your contractor handles communication before starting a job can give you plenty of insight into how they run their company: Is there one consistent point of contact for any issues that arise? Do they have a communication software or project management platform to track issues? Do you have a designated project manager or customer rep that you feel comfortable bringing issues to? Address any of these concerns promptly to ensure a smooth construction process, and to know you’ll be consistently kept up to date on the state of your project.