FAQ
Straight answers to the questions homeowners ask first.
If something’s missing, email us and we’ll add it.
Feasibility
What determines if an ADU is realistic at my address?
Four things: lot size and shape, setbacks and buildable envelope, utility and access constraints, and zoning/overlay rules specific to your parcel. ADUOS uses source-backed records where available and labels what still needs review.
What kinds of ADUs does ADUOS evaluate?
Four: detached new construction, attached addition, conversion of existing space like a garage, and Junior ADUs. Each has different rules and fits different lots. ADUOS only ranks or calls a path when the evidence supports it.
What counts as a common blocker?
Common blockers include setback conflicts, existing-structure placement, lot coverage, easements, fire access, utility capacity, drainage, trees, and crane or staging constraints. Your parcel may surface others.
Can ADUOS tell me if a basement conversion will work?
It can flag whether a below-grade or interior conversion path needs review. It cannot verify ceiling height, egress, foundation condition, moisture, drainage, or excavation risk from public data alone — those stay Needs review.
Pricing
What does the free look actually include?
An honest first read: verified facts, modeled screens, top blockers, Needs review items, and a trust chip on every fact. Not a teaser. If ADUOS cannot call the path yet, it says that clearly.
Why $49 for paid review?
It is a flat, one-time fee for ADUOS to review unresolved facts for one San Jose property. We respond with a resolved, blocked, or next-evidence step within 3 business days.
Is it a subscription?
No. One-time per property. If you own multiple properties, each is its own $49.
Can I get a refund?
Yes. If the paid review gives you no useful next step, email hello@aduos.co. We keep the bar simple: if you did not get value, you should not have paid.
Privacy
What data do you collect?
Your address (to run the lookup), and optionally your email (to save the case). We don't collect names, phone numbers, birthdays, or SSNs. We don't ask about household income.
Do you share or sell my address to builders?
No. Provider help is request-only until ADUOS has vetted inventory. Builders or plumbers do not see your address or contact info unless you explicitly share it.
How long do you keep my case?
If you sign in, your case stays in your account until you delete it or ask us to delete it. If you used ADUOS without an account, the case may not be available permanently.
Accuracy
How current is the data?
Parcel and zoning data is refreshed from county and city sources on a weekly cadence, and every claim carries a freshness timestamp. When a source is stale (> 90 days) or unknown, we say so.
What's the difference between Verified and Modeled?
Verified means a primary source says this is true today — and we link to the source. Modeled means we reasoned from source-backed facts and conservative assumptions — and the assumptions are shown next to the number as a range, not a point.
Who verifies the sources?
The system checks official/public sources first. Paid review means ADUOS reviews unresolved facts before upgrading a claim. We only call something Verified when current evidence supports it.
Still have questions?
Email us directly.
We read every email. No chatbot, no ticket queue, no “enterprise sales” funnel.