Today
we are faced with many factors regarding population and space. Unfortunately as
the amount of people continues to grow, the size of our planet does not.
Thankfully, Oregon is one state that is taking measures to increase urban
density and mitigate suburban sprawl, through the gaining popularity of
allowing ADU’s, or Accessory Dwelling Units to be built on sites with an
existing “main” residence.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit can be
created on almost any single-family residential lot in any of the 25 cities in
the Metro area. It can be attached, such as over a garage, or detached, as in a
separate living unit in the same plot as your home. ADU’s are limited to be no
greater than 800 square feet, and smaller than the existing house. “Granny
flat” or “basement apartment” are also names for ADU’s. An ADU is a great way
to help reflect the changing needs of homeowners, especially with the increase
of one and two person family units. They can provide added source of income,
through renting, as well as allowing the family to be closer, if a grandparent
or other family member moves in.
According to the Department of
Environmental Quality (DEQ), reducing housing size is “the most effective way
to reduce both material and energy related impacts of residential homes.”
Smaller homes use fewer materials, less energy, create less waste, and increase
density within the city. By containing the sprawl of new construction, we can
induce more significant change in energy used per capita.
There are some simple steps to
follow if you are considering building an ADU, or are trying to figure out if
it is the right decision. Funding, of course is a major factor in any new
construction. There are new incentives offered through the Energy Trust of
Oregon (ETO), as they have allowed detached ADU’s to qualify for full home
incentives. A rebate check of up to 4,000 dollars can be obtained for highly
energy efficient homes. Talking to city planners and visiting the planning and
zoning staff at the cities Development Services Center is also important,
considering you may need an inspection of the existing structure. Acquiring an
architect to help with the design and plans is also crucial. Finding a builder
as well as various subcontractors is important; plumbing, mechanical, and
electrical are three you will definitely need. Providing the city with drawings
and subsequently obtaining a permit for construction is the final step before
building can begin.
If you think that building an ADU is
the right choice for you and your family there are a few websites that can help
you to easily analyze your decision as well as getting started. The following
are three specific to the city of Portland. Also on October 26 there is going
to be a summit called “Build Small/Live Large: A Market Revival for Single
Family Housing.” Builders, developers, designers, and real estate professionals
will be discussing many topics including; ADU’s, demographic shifts, financing,
incentives, zoning, policy, and small housing trends.
