Accessory Dwelling Units Seattle - Evergreen Remodelers

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Seattle

Maximize Your Space with Evergreen Remodelers

Looking to add more living space to your property? Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are the ideal solution. Whether you’re interested in a backyard cottage, a guest house, or a separate suite, an ADU can provide extra living space that enhances both your home’s value and functionality. At Evergreen Remodelers, we specialize in the design and construction of ADUs in Seattle, ensuring that your new space blends seamlessly with your property and meets all local building codes.

Our ADU Projects

Why Choose Evergreen Remodelers for Your ADU Construction?

With years of experience designing and building ADUs, we offer a full range of services to bring your vision to life. Here’s why Evergreen Remodelers is the best choice for your ADU project in Seattle:

Comprehensive ADU Services: From managing permits and ensuring compliance with local ADU regulations to providing financing guidance, we’re with you every step of the way.
Sustainable Design Solutions: We focus on eco-friendly ADU designs, incorporating energy-efficient features and sustainable materials to reduce your environmental footprint.
Sustainable Design Solutions: We focus on eco-friendly ADU designs, incorporating energy-efficient features and sustainable materials to reduce your environmental footprint.
Expert ADU Design and Construction: We create custom ADU floor plans tailored to your needs, whether you’re building a detached ADU, an attached unit, or converting existing space.

Seattle ADU Laws and Regulations

In July 2019, Seattle’s City Council passed a set of updated rules designed to encourage the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), including both attached and detached types (DADUs). This legislative shift aimed to increase housing options throughout the city and help address the growing demand for more affordable living spaces.

These changes made it significantly easier for homeowners to add ADUs to their properties. Key updates included removing the requirement for an off-street parking space, eliminating the owner-occupancy rule for newly built units, and increasing the allowable size and height of detached ADUs. In certain zones, homeowners can now build both an attached and a detached unit on the same lot. These adjustments opened the door for more flexible living arrangements, rental opportunities, and multigenerational housing, offering a practical response to Seattle’s growing need for affordable housing.

Our ADUs Services

Attached ADUs

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) that is attached to the primary residence on a single-family lot is known as an attached ADU. These units, like DADUs, are commonly used for rental purposes or to house an elderly family member. They are typically compact homes with essential amenities, such as a kitchenette and a small bathroom.

Basement ADUs

Many homeowners are opting to transform their basements into independent living units. Basement ADUs offer an affordable and convenient rental option without the need to construct a new building, making them an increasingly popular choice.

Detached ADUs (DADUs)

Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs), also known as backyard cottages, are separate from the main residence. These structures are often used as rental properties, such as Airbnbs, but can also function as guest suites, home offices, or versatile living spaces.

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Benefits of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

ADUs offer numerous advantages, making them a highly desirable option for homeowners in Seattle:

Increased Property Value: Adding an ADU to your property can significantly boost its value, making it more attractive to potential buyers.
Additional Living Space: Need more space for guests, a home office, or extra family members? An ADU provides versatile living solutions.
Rental Income Potential: ADUs can serve as rental units, offering a steady income stream that helps offset property costs.
Legal and Sustainable: We ensure your ADU meets all local regulations, complies with zoning laws, and uses sustainable, eco-friendly materials.

SEATTLE ADU FAQs

Yes, permits are required. Any accessory dwelling unit in Seattle must comply with local regulations, including residential, building, electrical, mechanical, energy, land use, and environmental codes. The specific permits you’ll need depend on the type of ADU you plan to construct. More details are available through the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections (SDCI) website.

In Seattle, ADUs are allowed on properties zoned as Single-Family (SF5000, SF7200, SF9600), Residential Small Lot (RSL), and Lowrise (LR). In certain cases, they may also be permitted in neighborhood residential or commercial zones. Zoning rules and requirements differ by area, so it’s best to check the city’s official resources or zoning map for the most accurate information.

Yes, converting a garage into an accessory dwelling unit is a popular option. Whether it’s a detached garage or one connected to the main home, both can be transformed into livable space. Some homeowners also choose to build a unit above the garage, making use of the existing structure. This setup can offer flexibility for future use and maximize space on the property.

The size of an ADU or DADU depends on the size of your primary residence. According to Seattle’s current regulations, an accessory unit can’t be larger than 50% of the main home’s total square footage. So, if your house is 1,500 square feet, the ADU can be up to 750 square feet.

Seattle generally allows a combined total of 8 to 12 people to live across the main home and any ADUs on the property. The exact limit depends on the lot size and how many accessory units are present. Exceptions may apply for family members.

Accessory non-dwelling units include structures like sheds, workshops, and garages that can be added to your property alongside your main home. These buildings aren’t meant for living purposes, so they don’t need to meet the same standards as housing such as having a kitchen or bathroom.

All of these are alternative names commonly used for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). “Backyard cottage” and “carriage house” usually refer to detached units and may vary by region. On the other hand, “She Shed” and “Man Cave” are more casual terms for personalized spaces,often designed as private retreats,that fall under the broader category of ADUs or DADUs when they include features like electricity or plumbing.

The cost of an ADU depends on various factors, including size, design, and materials. Contact us for a personalized estimate tailored to your specific needs.

Get Started with Your ADU Project Today

Ready to add an Accessory Dwelling Unit to your property? Contact Evergreen Remodelers for a free consultation and receive a custom ADU construction estimate. Whether you’re looking for a backyard cottage, granny flat, or in-law suite, we’re here to help you create the perfect living space.