ADUs: How We Can Assist You
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have gained significant popularity in recent years.
This trend correlates with the growing affordable housing issue and the need for property owners to maximize their space. An ADU is a small and fully independent unit on a property that offers numerous possibilities.
Recent legislation passed has made the permitting process more efficient in Washington state. By reducing barriers to construction and use, ADUs have become more accessible.
Here are some key facts:
Size: ADUs are limited to 1,000 square feet.
Quantity: Qualifying lots can add up to two ADUs.
Land Use: Land cannot be subdivided between the primary structure and the ADU.
Types of ADUs:
Attached: Connects to the main home, usually attached to the side or rear.
Detached: A standalone structure separate from the primary residence.
Garage Conversion: Converts an existing garage into a living space.
Basement Conversion: Converted basement with its own entrance.
Junior ADU: Less than 500 square feet.
ADUs help alleviate the housing shortage by promoting well-designed infill housing. They allow people to live independently yet close to family or friends, often in established communities at a lower cost than buying a property in the area. This multifunctional investment takes advantage of existing property resources and offers flexible design options.
Benefits of ADUs include:
Increased housing opportunities
Potential rental income
Additional office or studio space
Enhanced property value
Pre-Construction Planning Services We Offer:
Boundary Survey: Visualizes ownership boundaries and determines whether or not property size requirements are met.
Site Plan: Ensures setback standards are met.
Utility Locate: Identifies existing utilities on site and helps plan for new utility connections.
Construction Staking: Layout of structure and other improvements.
Building Permit Guidance: Assists with navigating the permitting process with the applicable jurisdiction agency.
Hiring a professional land surveyor plays an important role in protecting your investments and supporting your success in your project goals.
Below are ADU resources by regional jurisdiction:
Island County / Island County Application
Case Studies:
In the Sehome neighborhood, we helped this client with their detached ADU project by locating the boundary lines in relation to the alley and existing structures.
Boundary survey being performed
In the Columbia neighborhood, we helped this client with their detached ADU project by performing a boundary and topographic survey.
Completed ADU project
In the Roosevelt neighborhood, we helped this client with their attached ADU by performing a boundary survey for line verification and setback details.
Boundary survey being performed