Thinking about adding an ADU to your property? That's a smart move, especially with how housing is going in Beaverton. But I've seen plenty of folks make some pretty basic mistakes right out of the gate, usually during the design phase or before they even talk to a builder. These aren't just minor hiccups; they can cost you big money, time, and a whole lot of headaches down the line.
Ignoring Zoning & Permitting Realities Early On
This is probably the biggest one. People get excited, they look at Pinterest, they sketch out their dream ADU, and then they find out it's not even possible on their lot. Beaverton has specific rules about setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, and even how much impervious surface you can have. You might love the idea of a two-story ADU, but if your lot's zoned for single-story or has a strict height cap, you're dead in the water. Or maybe you want to put it right up against your fence, but the setback requires 5 feet. You've just spent money on a design that won't get approved.
Before you even think about hiring an architect or designer, get familiar with the City of Beaverton's ADU guidelines. Seriously, read them. Or, better yet, have a contractor like Coastal ADU do a preliminary site visit and feasibility study. We can tell you pretty quickly what's realistic for your specific property based on zoning, easements, and existing utilities. Don't design in a vacuum; design with the rules firmly in mind.
Underestimating Utility Connections & Site Prep
Another area where people get blindsided is utilities. They assume,