Attached Accessory Dwelling Units (AADUs)

An AADU is a separate living space built within or connected to the main home. It can be a basement, garage conversion, or an extension that shares a wall with the primary residence. AADUs are a great option for homeowners seeking to maximize space without altering the property's footprint. They provide flexibility for housing family members, like adult children or aging parents, while maintaining proximity and privacy.

Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs)

DADUs are separate structures built on the same lot as the main home, typically in the backyard. These freestanding units are often designed as small cottages or standalone apartments. DADUs are ideal for homeowners who want to increase their property's value, add flexible living space, or even create a rental opportunity without impacting the privacy of their primary residence.

Income-Generating ADUs

An Income-Generating ADU is an accessory dwelling unit that homeowners can rent out to tenants for additional income. These units, whether attached or detached, allow homeowners to take advantage of Seattle's high demand for rental housing. Building an ADU for income purposes not only helps offset mortgage payments but also boosts property value and provides a flexible financial opportunity in the competitive Seattle real estate market.

Mother-in-Law Suites

A Mother-in-Law Suite is a self-contained living space designed to accommodate extended family members, often aging parents. These suites can be located within the main home, attached, or in a detached structure like an ADU. Building a Mother-in-Law Suite is an excellent solution for families looking to provide care and closeness for elderly relatives while ensuring independence and privacy for both parties.

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Why Choose Us For Your Seattle accessory dwelling unit

Seattle's Top-Rated ADU Contractors

We Have an Effective Process 

We know that ADU construction can be a big undertaking, which is why we are committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team will handle all necessary permits and regulations, ensuring that your project meets all safety standards and requirements. 

Meticulous Attention to Detail

Our team is dedicated to providing superior craftsmanship and attention to detail in everything we do. From choosing the perfect materials and finishes to ensuring seamless integration with your existing home, we take every aspect of the project into consideration.

We Put Customers First 

As a family-owned business, we understand the importance of trust and communication in any remodel project. That's why we go above and beyond to provide exceptional service and put our customer's needs first. 

20+ Years of Experience

Our team has been in the remodeling and construction industry for over 20 years! Our team loves what they do and takes pride in their ability to execute projects of all scopes and sizes to the highest standards possible. 

Our Client Testimonials Speak Volumes

Experience the A-Z Construction Difference

Let's Build Your Accessory Dwelling Unit

Let's build your accessory dwelling unit in Seatle and get more space to generate extra income, accommodate a family member, or use for whatever you'd like! Contact us today and discover why homeowners across Seattle, Renton, and the Eastside trust A-Z Construction Solutions with their ADUs and DADUs.

Serving Seattle, Renton and The Greater Eastside 

Questions About Accessory Dwelling Units

What types of accessory dwelling units are there?

Thinking of building an ADU in the Seattle Area? Here are the different types to consider!

  • AADU - It stands for an attached accessory dwelling unit. It's a totally separate living space often with its own entrance that is a part of the existing home's footprint.
  • DADU - It stands for a detached accessory dwelling unit. This is a completely separate structure on your property and is often a small home in itself!
  • Mother-in-Law Suite - This can be an AADU or DADU, and it has a specific purpose of housing family - often an aging parent or parents.
  • Income-Generating ADU - this is a AADU or DADU built for the specific purpose of generating income as a rental property or through a service such as Airbnb.
  • Laneway Housing - Specific to some cities, where you build an ADU or convert a garage on a back laneway.
  • Guest House - This is for building an ADU on your property specifically for when guests visit.
  • Garden Suite - A term used in some cities for an ADU built in a yard typically surrounded by a garden or other foliage.
  • Garage Conversion - Take an existing garage and convert into a livable structure or dwelling.
  • Finished Basement - An attached ADU could be a simple as finishing the basement and adding a separate entrance!

What's the process for building ADUs in Seattle?

Our collaborative process includes two consultations, a proposal, detailed planning, pre-construction meetings, and regular updates through our BuildTrend platform.

What sets your services apart from other contractors in the area?

Our commitment to quality, value, attention to detail, and customer service sets us apart. We also offer seamless Buildertrend integration and flexible financing options.

What is the difference between a ADU & DADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit either attached to or located within the main Seattle home. It can take the form of a basement apartment, garage conversion, or an extension of the primary residence. In contrast, a Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) is a completely separate structure built on the same lot as the primary home, often in the backyard, and functions as an independent living space.

How long does an ADU or DADU take to build?

The timeline to build an ADU or DADU in Seattle typically ranges from 8 to 12 months in total. This includes the design, permitting, and construction phases. Permitting alone can take 4 to 6 months, and actual construction can last 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the project and potential site challenges.

What size lot do I need to build an ADU in Seattle?

Seattle's zoning code allows ADUs and DADUs on lots that are a minimum of 3,200 square feet. However, additional considerations like setbacks, lot coverage limits, and the size of the main home can influence whether a lot is suitable for building an ADU or DADU.

How much does an ADU or DADU cost in Seattle?

The cost of building an ADU or DADU in Seattle typically ranges from $200,000 to $400,000, depending on size, design, materials, and site conditions. Detached units (DADUs) generally cost more than attached ADUs due to the need for separate foundations, utility hookups, and standalone infrastructure.

What is the maximum size I can have for an ADU or DADU in Seattle?

In Seattle, the maximum size for an ADU is 1,000 square feet, while a DADU can be up to 1,000 square feet as well. These limits apply whether the ADU or DADU is attached or detached from the main residence. Certain zoning areas may have additional regulations or restrictions, so checking specific local codes is important.

What are the top uses for a Seattle ADU?

ADUs in Seattle are commonly used as rental properties to generate extra income, as living quarters for extended family or guests, or as home offices or studios. They are also popular for multi-generational living, offering privacy for family members like aging parents or adult children.

Do I need to live on my property to have a Seattle ADU?

Seattle got rid of the owner-occupancy requirement so you now don't need to live on your property to have an ADU.

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