Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s)

Shelter Solutions, LLC and Joe Robertson have specialized in building Accessory Dwelling Units in the Portland Metro area since 1998, and responsible for building more ADUs in the area than any other builder.

Accessory Dwellings have also been called “mother-in-law apartments”, garage apartments, and guest houses. They are essentially a secondary living unit usually behind the primary home.

Many municipalities in Oregon are now encouraging homeowners to build Accessory Dwellings on properties with single family homes. The City of Portland, for example, now allows Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) to be built on most* single family residential zones. There are many restrictions that apply, however; the revised zoning code has built in a reasonable amount of flexibility that allows most homeowners to add ADUs on their property. Also, in many cases, the homes do not have to be owner occupied.

Accessory Dwellings can be very advantageous, they can:

• Add value to your property
• Provide Rental Income
• Provide a home for extended family
• Provide an investment with tax benefits**

Shelter Solutions, LLC has designed and built many ADU plans including small studio apartments, one and two bedroom apartments and garage apartments. Keep in mind that most municipalities require that the exterior design and materials to match that of the primary home. We also enjoy working with homeowners that have had their own plans developed by other designers.

* For exact regulations consult the city planning bureau
** Consult with tax professional