Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about an Elbow Room?
An Elbow Room is a traditionally constructed, climate-controlled detached structure, setting us apart from other accessory structure and dwelling builders with our superior quality and service. Each Elbow Room is built to municipal codes specific to your lot. We undertake a formal process, ensuring our customers are well-informed and can anticipate each step, resulting in consistently high-quality buildings.
Furthermore, Elbow Room manages the entire project, so you don't have to worry about permitting fees or the submittal and revision process. Rest assured that Elbow Room will handle scheduling and responding to all inspections, including our own third-party inspections. The end product not only adds value to your property but also respects your most precious commodity—your time. We take care of all construction nuances, from planning and vetting to scheduling, permitting, building, and quality control, making the process as seamless and enjoyable for you as possible, right up to handing over the keys to your new Elbow Room.
Additionally, our pricing is straightforward and fair. The price of an Elbow Room plus utility connections equals the true cost.
How long does it take?
Building an Elbow Room can range from as little as 4 weeks to as much as 12 weeks of on-site construction. The process prior to construction can sometimes take longer, primarily due to permitting requirements. Fortunately, all permitting fees, submissions, and revisions are managed by Elbow Room, streamlining the process and minimizing delays. This ensures that the focus remains on efficiently creating your new space.
How much does it cost?
The cost is the listed price of the Elbow Room. Sewer and water connections are priced separately.
Do I need a permit?
The requirements vary by location. Many municipalities allow the construction of small structures without needing a permit. For instance, in San Antonio, accessory structures can be up to 300 square feet without a permit, while in Austin, the limit is 200 square feet. However, water and sewage hook-ups typically require a permit, regardless of the structure's size. Elbow Room will ensure clear communication of updates and timelines throughout the permitting process.
How do I get a utility quote?
During your initial site visit, we will take measurements and ask some general questions. Based on this information, we can provide our best estimate of the costs. Once an agreement is signed, we will arrange for utility companies to visit your site and give a formal estimate, which may adjust up or down depending on the specifics of your lot.
What kind of foundation comes with it?
Home Rooms are constructed with an engineered in-ground pier and beam foundation, which is ideal for larger buildings due to its strength and accessibility. Wiggle Rooms, on the other hand, utilize a 4-inch slab-on-grade foundation.
How do I buy one?
Give us a call at 210-854-4023 or design your own Elbow Room using our 'Design & Price' tab. We'll address all your questions, schedule a site visit, and arrange a showing of a current build. When you're ready to proceed, inform your sales representative. We will then send you a Sales Agreement along with an invoice for $1,000. This payment secures your spot on our calendar and sets up an appointment to confirm your selections and upgrades. Following this, you'll receive a final contract that details your personalized purchase.
How does your payment plan work?
We process payment according to milestones at a 30/30/30/10 plan. After an initial deposit of $1000 which is used to secure a spot and cover any expenses determining feasibility, we implement the plan. The deposit is refundable less expenses if you choose not to move forward. Otherwise, it is applied to the remainder of the balance. Once the contract is signed, there is an invoice for 30% of the balance. Completion of the foundation marks the next 30% payment. Prior to electrical and plumbing rough-in, you'll receive a third invoice for 30% of the contract price. Once construction is complete and all inspections are passed, the final 10% of the balance is due. Should you decide to take ownership of the structure during the build process, 100% of the balance is incurred.
Do you offer financing?
We accept payments from third-party lenders.
Can I just buy the shell?
Elbow Room only builds completely finished structures.
Explain why permitting is important?
Permitting is necessary for structures exceeding certain square footage or designed for habitation. Permitted structures are formally recognized as added square footage to your property. The process, which includes structurally engineered foundations, architecturally stamped plans, and multiple inspections, must be completed to obtain a permit allowing construction to start or progress. This process can be costly and time-consuming. Elbow Room covers all associated fees and service costs for permits, handling document submissions, revisions, and coordination of inspections needed to secure permits for your build. Upon passing the final inspection, a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completeness is issued. Non-permitted accessory structures will still undergo third-party inspections to meet Elbow Room's quality standards.
What comes with a kitchen?
Every kitchen or kitchenette in our units meets specific electrical and plumbing rough-in requirements. For kitchens, we provide an L-shaped configuration with lower cabinets along two walls, complemented by upper cabinets. They are equipped with a full-sized refrigerator, an oven with stove-top, a microwave, a deep-set sink with a faucet, and a dishwasher. Kitchenettes feature lower cabinets along one wall and include either a mini-fridge or a wine fridge, along with a deep-set sink and faucet.
What comes with a Bathroom?
Elbow Room full-sized bathrooms come with a walk-in shower, vanity with sink and mirror, and an elongated toilet. They are prepared for plumbing connections.
What's the difference between a Home Room and a Wiggle Room?
The main difference between the Home Rooms and Wiggle Rooms are plumbing, permitting, foundation type, and available options. Wiggle Rooms do not require any permitting and have a 4" slab on grade base that is perfect for smaller buildings. Home Rooms require permitting, have a structurally engineered in-ground pier and beam foundation, and architecturally stamped plans. Several options such as bathrooms, kitchens are available in Home Rooms. James Hardie lap siding is standard in all models.
Can I add plumbing to a Wiggle Room?
Wiggle Rooms do not accommodate plumbing due to their small size. Since they are designed to fall under the size threshold for non-permitted structures in most municipalities, they typically do not require permits. However, any installation involving plumbing invariably requires a permit and will take longer to build, which is why plumbing is not included in Wiggle Rooms.
How is it built?
Elbow Rooms are "stick-built" like traditional home construction. They are not pre-fabricated or modular in nature.
Is there a warranty?
There is a one-year warranty on craftsmanship. All manufacturers warranties are transferrable. Engineered foundations have a 10-year warranty.
Can I use it for a short term rental?
You can use it for a short term rental, so long as you are in compliance with your municipal codes.
Are ADUs good investments?
ADUs are fantastic investments. They can add as much as 35% to property value and can be an excellent source for passive income. The purposeful use of accessory structures are often invaluable in themselves.
Can I live in my Elbow Room?
Home Rooms are built with living in mind. They include the options for kitchens and baths, as well as being built to livable codes. Wiggle Rooms are built on block foundations and do not offer options such as kitchens and baths.
What upgrades are available?
We offer upgraded siding, flooring, decks, roofing, and options such as kitchens and baths. Slab foundations are available on a case by case basis for an additional price. Raised rooflines and lofts are available on the Home Rooms. We also offer upgraded folding and stacking glass doors. Consideration will be given to special requests, although they are not guaranteed and may incur additional costs.