Construction
ADU Payment Schedule: California Homeowner’s Guide 2026
In California, your contractor cannot legally ask for more than $1,000 or 10% of the project total as a down payment, whichever is less. Even for a $300,000 detached unit, that initial check remains capped at just one thousand dollars. Establishing a compliant adu contractor payment schedule is your best defense against project delays or unfinished work. We know that handing over significant funds before a shovel hits the dirt feels like a massive risk. It's natural to worry about mechanics' liens or paying for craftsmanship that doesn't meet your standards.
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