Building A Portland Accessory Dwelling Unit

The Accessory Dwelling Unit Remodeling Experience Redefined.

There is a reason accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are increasing in popularity in Portland. All families can benefit from the additional living space that an ADU provides. And, as you’re building an ADU from scratch, you can have precisely what you want from the space in terms of function and style. It’s important to get a quality accessory dwelling unit that matches or exceeds the caliber of the rest of your home. This helps add to and maintain your property’s overall value.

ReCraft has experience in building accessory dwelling units from permit to completion. You’ve probably heard how tedious the permitting and design process can be,, but we believe it shouldn’t be giving you any grey hairs. We are happy to take that burden on for you and aim to provide a much better ADU construction experience than the competition. If you’ve got the property, we have the knowledge and expertise to bring your ADU dreams to life.

Discover more about ADUs in Portland below and why you should trust the team at ReCraft Home Remodeling to build yours.

Why An Accessory Dwelling Unit?

Adding a whole new space to your home is very exciting. You’re adding square footage and, when it’s an ADU, a great deal of function. So, it is important to understand exactly what you want out of your ADU before you start thinking about style or finishes. You should be designing your ADU with an end goal in mind. Common uses for ADUs include:

Rental spaces: ADUs are ideal as rental units as they can provide your renter with every space they need, from bedrooms to bathrooms to kitchens, so that you can keep your rental space separate from the rest of your home.
Additional living space: An ADU can alternately provide the extra space that your own family needs. Additional bedrooms and bathrooms can be very useful for growing families.
Entertaining: Others choose to use their ADU as a sort of guest house. They have a dining or living space for entertaining and use the bedroom in the ADU as a guest room.
Home value: If you may be selling your home relatively soon it is a good idea to consider how to maximize the additional home value you will get from building an ADU. Most commonly, homeowners design ADUs to be rental spaces to increase the value and attractiveness of a home to a buyer.
Home office: Those who run their own business from home often find that the additional space in an ADU is great for their work. Plus, it is wise to get some separation between your work and your personal living space.
Hobby space: Do your hobbies require a lot of space? There is plenty to be found in an ADU. And we can build in special features you might need for your hobby, like additional ventilation.

Every ADU is unique. Or at least, it should be unique and take into account your needs, your existing home, your property, and your style preferences. We can give you the ADU you’re dreaming of.

The Remodeling Experience Redefined

We provide a radically different remodeling experience for all of our clients, including those who are interested in adding an ADU. We truly care about your experience throughout the remodel, especially because we’re working on a home that you’re currently living in. There is no reason for your remodel to be the frantic, stress-inducing process that it often is. We work to do better and give you peace of mind. Here’s how we do it:

Careful planning
Clear scheduling
Extreme communication
Actual care

It Was Just What I Wanted, But Better!

PATTI P.

I am very happy with the results of my remodeling project with ReCraft. It is just what I wanted, but better! I have the highest regard for the company and for every member of my team - both personally and professionally. The project was kept on schedule with quality workmanship, products, and processes. They know how to listen and communicate well. I would definitely recommend ReCraft.

ADUs For Historic Portland Home Styles

Over the years, home sizes and our expectations for the size of our home have grown. Many of the historic home styles in Portland are smaller than average and can be greatly improved with the inclusion of an ADU. But combining old and new has challenges. We are prepared to help you maintain the feeling of unity in your home while still adding a highly modern space. We have experience blending old and new to fantastic results. Here are some of the Portland home styles we love to work with:

Portland Foursquare
Craftsman
Mid-Century Modern Split Level
American Ranch
Victorian

Complex ADUs Deserve Care

ADUs are inherently complex projects, but some are more involved than others. Many require collaboration between architects, engineers, designers and other professionals. While this makes them more complicated, it also makes them more gratifying. We prefer to work on these large, transformative projects because we’re more satisfied with the end results, and so are our clients.

You should trust us with your complex ADU project. We have strong collaboration, planning and execution skills, which means we provide a high-quality finished product and create much less headache for you along the way. Worry less about the integration of your plumbing system with the ADU and spend more time daydreaming about your countertop materials.

I very much appreciate the ReCraft team's attention to detail, regular communication, friendliness to our family, and quality of work. We are thrilled with our new, much larger, much smoother screen door and the other improvements that were part of our project. In any sort of project like this issues come up - the ReCraft team was open, communicative, and collaborated as we worked through decisions. Highly recommended.

We Are Thrilled!

CHRIS H.

ADU Regulations And Considerations

There are many regulations and building codes surrounding ADUs in Portland that can be hard to interpret. Plus, there are other practical matters, such as extending your electrical system to accommodate the ADU or adding in an HVAC system to deal with the additional square footage the ADU adds. There are so many practicalities to consider, but we can guide you through them so that you’re confident you’re making the right decision for your space.

Of course, there are also more fun things to consider, like the kind of flooring, countertops and wall colors you’ll have in the space. Here, we can guide you to choose the elements you love the most but make it a cohesive style that will look great for years to come.

Your Accessory Dwelling Unit Builder In Portland

Are you just starting to think about what you might want from an accessory dwelling unit? Or, maybe you know precisely how you want your ADU to look. We can help homeowners at any stage of the ADU design and build process. Reach out to us today for a free ADU consultation.

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The cost of building an ADU in Portland can vary significantly depending on factors like size, design, materials, and permits. On average, costs range from $100,000 to $300,000. It's essential to get detailed estimates from contractors for accurate pricing.

The process for registering an ADU with the city of Portland, Oregon involves obtaining the necessary permits, ensuring compliance with building codes, submitting detailed plans for approval, and potentially undergoing inspections. It's important to follow all regulations and guidelines set forth by the city to successfully register your ADU.

Yes, it is possible to include a garage when constructing an ADU in Portland. This can offer additional functionality and value to the property, providing both living space and parking convenience for residents or potential renters. Including a garage with an ADU can be a practical and desirable feature for many homeowners.

Portland, Oregon requires a minimum lot size of at least 2,500 square feet to build an ADU. The maximum size for a detached ADU is 800 square feet or 75% of the primary dwelling's living area, whichever is smaller.

Yes, special permits are required for ADUs in Portland. The permitting process can be tedious, but with our expertise, we can navigate it smoothly for you. Our team ensures a stress-free experience while creating a custom ADU to fit your needs.

Building an ADU in Portland can affect property taxes based on the added square footage and improvements. The increase in property value from the ADU may lead to higher property taxes, but specific amounts vary based on assessments and local regulations.

Homeowners in Portland can occupy the ADU while renting out the main residence. This arrangement offers flexibility and income potential to homeowners, adhering to the city's regulations and allowing for dual usage of the property.

Legal requirements to ensure ADU compliance in Portland include adherence to zoning regulations, obtaining proper permits, meeting building codes for safety, following size restrictions, ensuring adequate parking, and adhering to design standards for the neighborhood. Consulting with local authorities or professionals is crucial for full compliance.

ADUs positively impact home values in Portland, Oregon by increasing property value and attractiveness to potential buyers. They provide additional rental income potential or extra living space, satisfying modern housing needs and trends in the area, ultimately enhancing overall property worth and marketability.

Zoning regulations that affect ADU construction typically include rules on setbacks, height restrictions, lot coverage, and whether ADUs are allowed at all in a specific area. Understanding these regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and a smooth ADU construction process.

The ADU permitting process duration can vary based on location and complexity, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months. Factors such as design revisions and city review times influence the overall timeline. It's best to consult with local authorities for precise estimates.

In Portland, prefabricated ADUs are allowed, but they must meet specific zoning and building regulations. Working with a knowledgeable team can help ensure compliance and streamline the process. Understanding city requirements is crucial for a successful prefab ADU project.

There are various financing options available for ADUs, including construction loans, home equity loans, cash-out refinancing, personal loans, and even specific ADU financing programs provided by some financial institutions. Each option has its own benefits and considerations, so it's essential to explore what works best for your financial situation. Consulting with a financial advisor can help you navigate these choices effectively to find the right fit for your ADU project.

ADUs typically have a maximum size limit based on local regulations and zoning codes. It is crucial to check with your city or county to determine the specific size restrictions for ADUs in your area. Regulations may vary, so consulting with local authorities is essential in planning your ADU project.

Yes, an ADU can be two stories high.

setbacks for ADUs are subject to local regulations, which typically include the required distances between the ADU and property lines, other structures, or the main dwelling on the property. Consult your local zoning codes or building department for specific setback requirements in your area.

Yes, utility hookup fees for ADUs are typically required as part of the overall construction process. These fees cover the cost of connecting your ADU to necessary services such as water, electricity, sewer, and gas, ensuring your new space is fully functional and compliant with regulations.

ADU construction can impact neighbors by causing potential disruptions in the neighborhood such as increased noise, construction traffic, and temporary changes in the surroundings. Additionally, it could affect property values and the overall aesthetic appeal of the area during the construction phase.

ADUs can be used as short-term rentals, providing an additional income stream. However, local regulations may dictate specific rules on short-term rentals, so it's essential to check with the relevant authorities before proceeding with such usage.

ADUs commonly feature rental spaces, separate from the main home, adding value and functionality. Ideal for hobbies or workspaces, designs can be personalized to match existing home styles and preferences, with attention to practicalities like electrical and HVAC integration for a cohesive finished space.

There are grants available for building ADUs, varying by location and eligibility criteria. Research local government programs, non-profit organizations, or financial institutions for potential funding opportunities. Contact relevant authorities for specific details on grants for ADU construction.

Energy efficiency requirements for ADUs typically include considerations like insulation, efficient windows, LED lighting, and possibly solar panels. Compliance often varies by location, so it's best to consult local building codes for specifics.

ADUs can have separate mailing addresses, but this typically requires approval from the local zoning authorities. Some areas allow ADUs to have distinct addresses, which can benefit rental situations and make it easier to identify each dwelling. It's important to check with local regulations for specifics.

In general, solar panels are not required on ADUs, but they can be a valuable addition to increase energy efficiency and sustainability. It ultimately depends on local building codes and the homeowner's preferences for renewable energy sources.

ADUs integrate with existing homes by providing extra space for various functions, like rental units or personal use. They must align with the style of the main home and handle practical considerations, such as electrical and HVAC additions. Collaboration with professionals ensures a seamless integration process.

ADUs in Portland require a minimum lot size of at least 2,500 square feet for a detached ADU and 1,000 square feet for an attached ADU. It's important to check local zoning ordinances for specific regulations.

Parking requirements for ADUs can vary depending on the location and local regulations. Some areas may require an additional parking space for the ADU, while others may not have specific parking requirements for ADUs. It's essential to check with your local zoning laws to determine the parking regulations for your ADU project.

Property tax breaks for ADUs vary by location. Some areas offer incentives or exemptions, while others may not. It's essential to check with local authorities or a tax professional to determine specific tax breaks available for ADUs in a particular area.

ADUs can be attached to the primary home, providing additional living space while maintaining a separate entrance and living area. This setup allows for flexibility and privacy for both the main residence and the ADU occupants.

Each city or jurisdiction may have specific height restrictions for ADUs. It is crucial to check with your local planning department to understand the height limitations that apply to your property before proceeding with the design or construction of your ADU.