what is an adu?
Accessory dwelling units or ADUs for short are separate dwelling units, either attached (AADU) or detached (DADU) sharing a lot with a primary residence.
can i build an adu on my property?
If you live in Seattle the answer is most likely yes. Seattle has some of the most permissive ADU regulations in the country. Building and land use codes dictate the location and size of the ADU.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT IS POSSIBLE?
Design goals, site conditions, zoning codes and construction budgets, at microhouse we can help you get the information you need to make informed decisions before you start your planning your accessory dwelling unit. We pay special attention to constraints that are most likely to make building a DADU cost prohibitive or not possible at all. City rules concerning lot coverage, environmentally critical areas, tree protection and drainage or other utility considerations all impact DADUs. Fortunately, we assist our clients understand these regulations and how they impact the potential for their property during their initial consult. Contact us to get started.
how much does it cost to build a dadu?
The first questions we usually answer for people planning to build a DADU are about feasibility, cost, and design which are all interrelated. A preliminary site assessment, which can be done via phone or email, is the first part. At that time, we can answer questions and we can discuss budget ranges for recently completed DADUs.
Can I build a DADU myself?
Yes, you can act as a general contractor for your own DADU project and many of our clients do. These folks range from homeowners building one DADU in their backyards to large developers building multiple units simultaneously.
How do I save money building a DADU?
The simple answer is by making good design decisions taking careful consideration of your budget, your goals, and your property and local regulations. The best way to avoid costly mistakes is to contact us at the beginning of the planning process.
building a dadu a good investment?
For most people building an ADU is a good investment. A good first question to ask before making that investment is how will I establish a budget for the ADU? While it may be hard to put a value on how a well designed home makes you feel or the value of having a family member living nearby, some qualities are easier to asses. If that family member is an aging parent who would otherwise be living in an assisted living facility, it is relatively easy to look at the costs of local facilities. For others building a new cottage may be less expensive than remodeling their existing house to more closely meet their needs. For example, new ADUs can incorporate universal design components to assist those with mobility impairments. Many people plan to use their cottages to generate rental income. In this case, a careful consideration of the rents in your area and anticipated costs can help you establish a budget range. Having established a realistic budget based on your needs and values will guide the many decisions that make up the design process.
At microhouse we are the Seattle experts in the design, permitting, and construction of DADUs. We are here to help our clients in creating houses that exceed their expectations. Our experience not only results in great houses, but saves our clients time and money, allowing them to allocate their resources to the things that they value most. We work with top notch consultants and home builders assuring quality and affordability in everything that we do.
Common DADU regulations in Seattle.
We helped shape the Seattle rules around ADUs. We use our extensive experience to guide homeowners and builders by evaluating the potential and limitations of their properties before they start their projects.
How big can a DADU be?
In Seattle NR zones both AADUs and DADUs can be 1,000 sq. ft. In size. The specific regulations vary by zone. In LR zones ADUs are limited to 650 sq. ft. in size.
How many ADUs are allowed?
In Seattle up to two attached ADUs or one attached ADU and one detached ADU are allowed in addition to the primary residence on a NR zoned property.
Is owner occupancy required for ADUs in Seattle?
No, ownership is not required for ADUs in Seattle. Prior to recent code changes to encourage the construction of more ADUs, the property owner was required to live in either the ADU or the primary residence.
Does Seattle charge impact fees for ADUs?
No, Seattle does not charge impact fees for the addition of an ADU to a property. The county does levy a sewer impact fee for new ADUs of around $6,500.
How will Washington State wide ADU legislation affect my Project?
Short answer is that we don’t know yet and likely won’t until 2025.
Can I sell my DADU separately?
Yes, you can sell your DADU separately from the primary residence. In NR zones DADUs can be sold separately using a condominium agreement.
How Can I Finance My ADU?
The most common ways to finance are Cash, Home Equity, or Construction loans. We can offer our clients referrals to local lenders.
is parking required for an adu?
Seattle does not require a parking space for a new ADU. Seattle requires parking for the primary residence and required parking space cannot be removed to create an ADU. Street or driveway parking (when in the required front yard) cannot be counted as required parking. Converting an existing garage to an ADU typically requires replacing that parking space elsewhere on the property.