Free Washington Homeowner's Guide

Can you build an ADU on your Washington property?

Thinking about adding a second home to your property? Washington has expanded opportunities for ADUs, but zoning, utilities, site conditions, and construction costs still determine what's possible. This free guide walks you through what to consider before moving forward.

  • Understand Washington's ADU regulations and local requirements
  • Learn what to check before investing in plans or construction
  • Explore the eight steps from property evaluation to move-in
Get the free guide
Free download. Takes about 20 seconds.
Hilson Homes

Building an ADU
in Washington

2026 Edition
9 pages · free

Eight steps. Feasibility first.

From evaluating your property to final inspections, building an ADU involves several important steps. Here's what to expect along the way.

01Evaluate the Property
Zoning, site, and utilities
02Set Goals and Budget
Size, use, and financing
03Select a Design
A plan that fits your property
04Site Planning and Engineering
Surveys, drainage, structural plans
05Apply for Permits
Plan review and approvals
06Prepare the Site
Clearing, grading, utilities
07Build the ADU
Foundation to finishes
08
Final Inspections
Approvals and occupancy
Steps from feasibility to occupancy
8 total

What's inside the 9 pages

  • 1
    Washington ADU Regulations

    Understand what state law allows, how local requirements differ, and what that means for your property.

  • 2
    Five Things to Check First

    Learn how zoning, available space, environmental restrictions, utilities, and site access affect what you can build.

  • 3
    Costs and Utilities

    Understand what drives construction costs, why smaller homes can cost more per square foot, and which utility questions to ask early.

  • 4
    Design and the Building Process

    Explore common ADU layouts, pre-approved plans, and the steps involved from planning through construction.

  • 5
    Financing and Readiness Checklist

    Review financing options, potential tax considerations, common challenges, and a practical checklist to help you plan your next steps.

Who this guide is for

Homeowners Exploring an ADU

You have space on your property and want to understand whether building an additional home is possible.

Families Planning Ahead

You're considering a separate living space for parents, adult children, or extended family while keeping everyone close.

Homeowners Considering Rental Income

You want to understand the costs, requirements, and practical considerations before investing in a rental ADU.

Get the Washington ADU Guide

Find out what goes into building an ADU in Washington. Get the free nine-page guide covering property requirements, construction costs, utilities, permits, financing, and the steps from planning to completion.

Hilson Homes builds custom and semi-custom homes throughout Washington. If you're considering an ADU and want to discuss what's possible on your property, we'd welcome the opportunity to learn more about your project.

Send me the guide

Free, nine-page guide delivered to your inbox.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

We'll email you the guide and may follow up about your project. No spam, ever.

Get the Free Guide