Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to our most asked questions, including building regulations, financial planning, construction, and more.
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How much space do I need for a Backyard Pod?
Our pods range from 120sqft - 720sqft. We will ensure that you have enough space at the site visit, including abiding by all the legally-required building setbacks for your lot.
Can I add a Backyard Pod to a property without an existing house?
While Backyard Pod is primarily designed as an "accessory" to a primary residence, it can also be permitted as a standalone single-family residence (which can be complemented with its own ADU). We'll help you determine if the cost and timeline for installing a standalone Backyard unit are the right fit for your needs.
Do I have to pay the full cost of the Pod upfront?
Absolutely not. We've spread out the milestone payments throughout the entire project timeline, with the final payment due once we’ve done a final walkthrough with you ensuring it’s built to your standards.
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How much space do I need for a Backyard Pod?
Our pods range from 120sqft - 720sqft. We include foundation and installation and ensure at the site visit that you have enough space. We abide by the legally required setbacks as well. Which usually vary between 5ft. - 20ft. from your property line.
How long does it take to get a Backyard Pod?
For our pods without bathrooms (Pod Essentials), it usually takes between 4-8 weeks which includes installation and electrical permits if needed. For our pods with bathrooms (Pod Living & Pod Home), it usually takes around seven months from start to finish. This includes getting permits, foundation, and installation on your property. Since the time it takes to get a building permit can vary, we'll provide you with a personalized timeline once you reserve your unit.
How disruptive is the installation process?
Our installation process is designed to minimize disruptions to your property and daily life. Our site preparation work typically takes 3-4 days. The most significant disruption is when we trench for utilities and ask that you uncover any sprinkler systems to avoid damage.
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Do I have to pay the full cost of the Pod upfront?
Absolutely not. We've spread out the milestone payments throughout the entire project timeline, with the final payment due once we’ve done a final walkthrough with you ensuring it’s built to your standards.
What financing options are available for a Pod?
We're partnered with HEARTH financing, a trusted provider of personal loans for home improvements. Through our partnership, you can explore financing options without affecting your credit score.
Other financing options typically include:
- Cash-out refinance
- Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
- Home equity loan
- Renovation or construction loan
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What’s included in the base price?
The base price covers a range of services to accommodate most sites, with the final installation price tailored to your specific property. The base installation scope includes:
- Full-time project management by our operations team
- General site infrastructure, including mobilization, protective work zone barriers, and required stormwater contamination prevention measures
- Standard foundation installation, designed for most sites in Austin, TX
- Touchup and final cleaning after delivery
What gets added on to the price?
- Allowances for building permits and encroachment permits necessary for installation
- Equipment, labor, and materials for utility connections, including sanitary sewer, electrical conduit and wire, and PVC water line.
What factors might increase my installation cost?
We'll help you identify potential extra costs early on. However, be aware that the following factors could lead to additional costs:
- Remote properties with significant travel for our crews (30+ miles from our PodQuarters)
- Additional permits and services required by your local jurisdiction
- Concrete or structure demolition
- Electrical service upgrades if required
- Unforeseen site conditions discovered during excavation or permitting
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Do I need a building permit for my Pod?
It varies based on where you live. In Austin, building permits are not required for structures 200 sqft or smaller without plumbing. Our team will take care of obtaining all the necessary permits to make the process as easy as possible for you.
Is it possible to expedite the building permit?
In some areas, faster permitting options are available through pre-approval processes or third-party reviewers. We'll work with you to understand your timeline and find the best option based on your property and location.
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Can I add a Pod to a property without an existing house?
While Backyard Pod is primarily designed as an "accessory" to a primary residence, it can also be permitted as a standalone single-family residence (which can be complemented with its own ADU). We'll help you determine if the cost and timeline for installing a standalone Backyard Pod unit are the right fit for your needs.
Can I have more than one ADU on my property?
The number of ADUs you can have depends on your zoning and local regulations. In Austin, most residential lots are limited to one ADU, but there is no limit to the number of accessory structures (pods with a bathroom but no full kitchen) that you can have. Our team will research your local regulations to find out what you can build on your lot!
Can I rent out my ADU?
ADUs are intended for long-term housing with average rental periods exceeding 30 days. However, local jurisdictions may allow shorter rentals. Our team can help you understand your area's rental rules based on how you plan to use your Backyard unit.
What's the maximum size of an ADU in Austin?
An ADU can be up to 1,100 square feet. It must be less than 30 feet high.
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Will a Backyard Pod affect my property taxes?
Adding an ADU may increase your property tax based on its value, but it won't trigger a re-assessment of your primary residence. This makes ADUs a tax-efficient way to add extra housing or space to your property. Depending on how you use your ADU, there may also be tax-related benefits, which we can help you understand.
Will an ADU increase my property value?
Yes, a permanent ADU can increase your property's livable square footage, bedroom and bathroom count, and overall value.
Is an ADU a smart investment?
Detached ADUs can be a fantastic investment, depending on your property and goals. They can generate extra income from renters and positively impact your property's value and long-term appreciation. While we're not financial advisors, we'll help you understand the potential long-term benefits of adding a Backyard Pod to your property.
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What is an ADU?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary living space that shares the building lot of a larger, primary home. These livable spaces have a kitchen and bathroom, and are sometimes called granny flats, in-law units, or backyard homes. They offer a quick and low-impact way to add housing and increase the value of existing properties for Texan homeowners.
What is an Accessory Structure?
An accessory structure is a secondary building on your property that shares the lot with a larger, primary home. It includes a bathroom without a kitchen. There are less requirements with these types of structures than an ADU.
Backyard Pod Permits.
Here's a video that explains the permit process with Backyard Pod and what you can expect. Our in-house team of architects, engineers, and specialists have extensive experience with Austin permits. We handle everything for you, ensuring a hassle-free construction journey. Understanding the permit process is crucial to complying with all city regulations, and we take care of it all for you!
Where To Place Your Pod.
Get ready for your Backyard Pod! The first step is finding the perfect spot in your backyard. The Backyard Pod team makes this process as simple as possible. In this video, we will help you figure out where your pod can go and the steps needed before we can start building. Plus, our team will come out for a site visit to help you find the ideal location for your pod!
To build a Backyard Pod, we must ensure that we are not potentially harming any protected trees. Depending on where you live, there are different regulations on what trees are protected. In this video, we will explain how to find out if the trees in your backyard are protected and how to find out where we can build your pod! We also offer a feasibility report on our website under Permits & Financing. A Backyard Pod team member will come and do all the measuring and calculating for you, so all you have to do is sit back and wait on your report results!
Critical Root Zones
Impervious Coverage
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Impervious cover refers to any surface that does not allow water to penetrate the ground. This includes:
- Pathways
- Flagstones
- Decks
- Permanent structures (such as your house and sheds)
- Concrete patios
- ETC.
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Impervious cover impacts water drainage and the environment. It affects how much rainwater can be absorbed into the ground, influencing stormwater runoff, erosion, and local water quality. Managing impervious cover helps maintain a balanced ecosystem and reduces the risk of flooding.
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In Austin, the amount of impervious cover allowed on a property depends on its location and area. Typically, the allowable impervious cover ranges from 45% to 50% of the total property area. These regulations are essential to ensure sustainable development and protect the environment.
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When you choose Backyard Pod, we take care of the details for you. Here's how we manage impervious cover:
1. Survey Review: We start by reviewing your property survey to assess the current impervious cover.
2. Calculation: We calculate your existing impervious cover and determine how much additional cover your new pod or structure will add.
3. Compliance Check: If your property is close to the maximum allowable impervious cover, we'll let you know. We will advise if any adjustments, such as removing existing structures, are necessary to comply with regulations.
4. Inclusion in Scope: If adjustments to impervious cover are required, we'll include this in our project scope. The cost for an impervious coverage survey typically ranges from $2,000 - $3,000. This survey is essential if your property exceeds the limit or if some cover needs to be removed to comply with city regulations. It ensures your impervious cover information is up to date.
Our goal is to ensure your project meets all local regulations while providing you with a beautiful and functional space. With over 300 pods built and 14 different models to choose from, we have the expertise to handle all aspects of your project seamlessly.
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For more information, you can visit the City of Austin's official website - Learn More About Impervious Coverage.
Utility Work
Ensuring your Backyard Pod complies with local city regulations and requirements is crucial for a smooth and successful project. Your dedicated project manager will thoroughly assess all utility aspects, and we will incorporate any necessary costs into your estimate. Prices may be subject to change. At Backyard Pod, we prioritize quality craftsmanship, which includes meticulous attention to utility work. Utility setup is as vital as the build itself, and we manage everything—from coordinating with utility companies to scheduling, planning, obtaining permits, and overseeing installation—to ensure seamless operation. Count on us to handle every detail, so your Backyard Pod not only meets but exceeds expectations in functionality and compliance. Here are some additional utility services your project may require.
