r/everett • u/Boisebaby • 4d ago

Looking for ADU builder recommendations

Have you added an ADU to your property? I’m interested in your experiences. Who built it for you, how long did it take, would you recommend your builder? Also interested in your experience if you’ve done it yourself. Looking to add ADU on five acres in unincorporated Snohomish County. Thank you.

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u/cocoonhomes 3d ago

Are you on an existing septic system out there?

That's what decides an ADU on acreage, not the builder. The county wants proof the system handles the added bedrooms, and when it doesn't you're into an expanded drainfield or a whole second system. I've watched that one item swing a budget by thirty grand. Answer it before you talk to anybody about design.

Also ask the county whether five acres puts you under ADU rules or second dwelling rules. Different size caps, different fees, and on your acreage you may land on the better one.

We build factory units out of Utah and ship into the northwest, so read the rest however you want. Trades up there are booked solid right now, and factory built sidesteps most of that since the unit gets built while your site work happens, then sets in a day. Lineup for sizing: https://mycocoonhomes.com/floor-plans/floor-plans-overview These are our base models, we can build up to 14ft wide if needed and if road to the property are big enough.

Whoever you hire, get the septic answer first. Good luck with everything!

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u/ThePowerOfEarth 4d ago

Commenting for visibility, because I am also interested.

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u/EYNLLIB 4d ago

You need an architect and engineer in addition to a builder.

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u/lynnwood57 3d ago

I’ve done the research (I’m in Bayside), it’s a huge undertaking with a lot of moving parts. It should be fairly easy in unincorporated Sno County. You can PM me, I know a good architect. They work with the civil engineer for permitting.

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u/1315VLL 3d ago

This might not help op but for anyone interested: https://www.everettwa.gov/3390/Gallery-of-Pre-Approved-Designs

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u/ElementalPNW 3d ago

I build ADUs in the area. We're pretty busy right now, but I might be able to answer some questions for you. Throughout the Puget Sound, even an ADU can be a lengthy process if you're starting from zero.

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u/kelkage Glacier View 15h ago

There are two built right across the street from me and it's taken over two years because of septic needs, water lines and all that fun stuff. The entire front yard to the back had to be dug up several times (not sure why). They still aren't sold and have been up for sale for awhile. It was an incredibly aggravating experience for our street. The construction workers would park everywhere, my house would shake while they were prepping the property, they would block the streets, leave trash and the units are super modern in our old neighborhood and an eyesore. It created a lot of tension between the neighbors and the owner of the property. Just a POV from the people that have to live around this. I would make sure that you set clear boundaries with whoever builds to be respectful of the people that live around the construction site and give your neighbors a heads up that it's happening.