Menu
With its scenic views of the Tualatin River and proximity to Oregon’s rolling hills, Tigard, Oregon, is an appealing location for homeowners interested in adding a tiny home, modular ADU, or guest house to their property.
However, the process of adding a tiny home to your property can feel overwhelming. Each area, including Tigard, has its own unique set of requirements for permits, construction, and the installation of a modular accessory dwelling unit. The challenges you may encounter can vary from simple to complex, depending on local regulations and site-specific factors.
Fortunately, we’re here to help. Check out our guide below on how to make adding a tiny home or modular ADU to your property easy.Determining whether a tiny home is the right fit depends on your specific goals and lifestyle. For homeowners with existing property, adding a modular tiny home can be a smart way to expand your living space without the disruption of traditional construction. Whether you’re creating a private guest house, a retreat for family, or an income-generating rental, tiny homes offer flexibility and affordability. For those purchasing new property, a tiny home provides a quicker, more affordable path to homeownership while allowing for customization to fit your needs.
Tiny homes are also a great solution for multigenerational living, offering independence for a relative while keeping family members close. Additionally, they present a valuable opportunity for those looking to generate residual income with a rental property. To help you evaluate whether a tiny home is the right choice for you, consider the following:
The permit process typically starts by identifying the correct governing authority for your location. Depending on your property, you may need to submit permits to the city or the overseeing jurisdiction, which is often the county. Most local authorities provide zoning and building code details on their websites.
Once you’ve identified the appropriate jurisdiction, the next step is to determine which types of structures are permitted. This varies depending on whether the building will serve as the main residence or an additional unit. Secondary homes are often classified as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), guest houses, secondary dwellings, or hardship accommodations. ADUs can either be attached to the main structure or completely separate.
Consulting with a tiny home permit expert or building planner early in the process can save both time and money, significantly simplifying the process of obtaining the necessary permits.
Start by reviewing the zoning rules for your property through the City of Tigard and Washington County websites or by contacting local planning offices. Make sure your location allows for a tiny home or modular accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
Understand the building codes specific to Tigard and Washington County. These codes will govern the construction, safety standards, and structural integrity of your tiny home or ADU.
Reach out to the City of Tigard and Washington County planning and building departments. Schedule a consultation to discuss your project and gather details on the specific permit requirements you’ll need to follow.
Plan for utility connections (water, sewer, electricity) that align with city and county requirements. Ensure you have a clear plan for site preparation, including grading and foundation placement.
File the necessary building permit applications with the City of Tigard and Washington County. These submissions may include site plans, utility connection plans, and detailed project information.
As construction moves forward, schedule safety inspections with local authorities. These inspections will confirm that your project meets all structural, electrical, and plumbing safety standards.
After passing all required inspections, finalize the permit process by obtaining a certificate of occupancy or equivalent approval from the city or county, allowing you to legally use your tiny home or ADU.
Choosing the right home builder requires careful research and a clear understanding of your project’s requirements. Start by assessing the builder’s experience, especially in constructing homes that match the size, design, and complexity of the one you have in mind.
An experienced builder will have a portfolio of past projects that showcase their expertise and craftsmanship. Reading reviews, client testimonials, and speaking directly with previous clients can provide valuable insight into the builder’s reliability, quality of work, and ability to meet deadlines. Make sure the builder is well-versed in local building codes and regulations, as this is essential for a smooth permitting process and successful project completion.
In addition to technical expertise, consider how well the builder communicates and their transparency regarding costs and timelines. A trustworthy builder will offer a detailed estimate and be upfront about potential cost increases or delays. Ask about the types of materials they use and whether they provide warranties or post-construction support. These aspects are key to ensuring your home is built with high-quality, durable materials and that you have continued assistance after the project is completed.
Ultimately, the ideal home builder should combine experience, transparency, and effective communication to bring your vision to life within your budget and timeframe.
A modular home builder creates houses in a factory environment, where different sections, or modules, of the home are pre-assembled in a controlled setting. These modules are then transported to the construction site and put together on a foundation.
Modular building offers quicker completion times, as the process isn’t affected by weather or site conditions, and materials are kept indoors, preventing exposure to the elements. The factory setting also ensures stricter quality control and consistent building standards. Modular homes are designed to meet or exceed local building codes, making them a dependable and cost-efficient choice for those seeking a faster and more streamlined construction process.
In contrast, an on-site home builder constructs homes directly at the location where they will be situated. This traditional method, often called stick-built construction, provides more flexibility during the build, allowing for changes and adjustments as the project progresses. However, on-site construction is more prone to weather-related delays and requires careful coordination of various trades, such as framers, plumbers, and electricians, which can extend the timeline.
While on-site construction may take longer and involve more complexity, it offers greater customization and benefits from local expertise, making it ideal for projects requiring unique designs or adjustments to specific environmental conditions. Both approaches have their advantages: modular builders focus on speed and efficiency, while on-site builders emphasize flexibility and hands-on management.
Modular home builders offer significant savings when it comes to off-site built ADUs. Here’s an example of how combining the permitting, production and installation of a tiny home adds up:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Model B (Base price) | $67,500 |
| Upgrades (Optional additions & Appliances) | $12,000 |
| Site work, Foundation, Delivery & Setup | $34,000 |
| Sub Total w/ Tax (WA) | $125,172 |
| Permits (Wolf Service Fee & Jurisdiction Fee) | $7,500 |
| Total | $ |
Eager to enhance your living space with a tiny home? Our experienced team is ready to assist you every step of the way, from navigating the permit process to customizing the home of your dreams. With our dedication to quality and sustainability, you’ll enjoy a modern, energy-efficient space tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy backyard hideaway, generate rental income, or simplify your lifestyle, we have the ideal solution for you.
Don’t delay in turning your tiny home dreams into reality! Reach out to us today to learn more about our turn-key tiny homes and how we can guide you through the entire process. Let’s start this exciting journey together and design a space that reflects your unique vision and lifestyle. Your dream tiny home is just around the corner!
Free Property Evaluation
Thank you - we've received your request and will get back to you as soon as possible.
(360) 912-9519
607 SE Eaton Blvd, Battle Ground WA 98604
Sales@Wolfind.com
