Company Research

GetADU / J. Kretschmer in San Jose: what homeowners should ask

GetADU by J. Kretschmer Architect appears on San Jose's approved preapproved ADU list. It may help if you want architect-led plans and a clearer permit path.

Published August 14, 2026

This is a homeowner research profile. It is not a paid placement, review, or recommendation.

San Jose lists J. Kretschmer Architect in its approved preapproved ADU plan section. The city lists GetADU.com as the website.

What to verify first

  • Is the exact plan still approved by San Jose today?
  • Does your lot qualify for the preapproved path?
  • Are you buying plans, site planning, construction help, or construction management?
  • Who finds and manages the contractor?
  • What happens if your lot cannot use the expedited path?

Why this company belongs on your first screen

GetADU is useful to compare because it is architect-led. That makes it different from a prefab seller or a general contractor.

The company says it provides ready-to-build plans, can help with approvals, and can help homeowners find qualified general building contractors.

The listed San Jose plans

San Jose lists two J. Kretschmer Architect plans:

  • 748 sq. ft. 2 bedroom, 1 bath ADU.
  • 476 sq. ft. 1 bedroom, 1 bath ADU.

GetADU says its preapproved plan package includes architectural and structural plans already approved by San Jose. It also recommends site planning services because every lot is different.

The key risk is lot fit

GetADU says preapproved ADUs are not available for every San Jose lot. A property may fail the fast path because of geohazard, flood, historic, easement, or other site limits.

That does not always mean you cannot build an ADU. It may mean the project needs more services and regular review.

Start with this overview: San Jose preapproved ADU plans.

Questions to ask GetADU

  • Which plan is the best fit for my lot?
  • Is my property eligible for the San Jose preapproved path?
  • What is included in the plan package?
  • What does site planning cost?
  • Who submits the package to the city?
  • Who answers city comments?
  • Do you help me get contractor bids?
  • Can you stay involved during construction?
  • What have similar ADUs cost to build?

Best fit

GetADU may be a good first call if you want an architect-led plan and you are comfortable comparing contractors for construction.

It may be a poor fit if you want one company to sell, permit, build, and manage every part of the project under one contract.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Is GetADU listed by the City of San Jose?
Yes. San Jose lists J. Kretschmer Architect with GetADU.com as the website for approved preapproved ADU plans.
What GetADU plans are listed by San Jose?
San Jose lists a 748 sq. ft. 2 bedroom, 1 bath ADU and a 476 sq. ft. 1 bedroom, 1 bath ADU.
Does GetADU build the ADU?
GetADU public pages say they can help homeowners find qualified general building contractors. Ask who will build and who will manage construction.
Does a GetADU preapproved plan work on every San Jose lot?
No. GetADU says preapproved ADUs are not available for every San Jose lot. Site rules still matter.

Comparing GetADU with builders?

Send the plan name, site notes, and builder quote. I will help you see what still needs to be checked.

Send your ADU details