The lot-to-keys planning checklist
What to gather before you talk to any builder, including us. Print it, save it as a PDF, or have it emailed.
Your lot
- Lot size and shape (county parcel record or survey)
- Alley access, and how a truck reaches the build area
- Slope and drainage: where water goes in a storm
- Large trees near where you would build
- Easements or shared driveways
Your house's services
- Where the sewer line leaves the house and how deep it is
- Electrical panel size and spare capacity
- Water meter size
- Gas, if you want it
Your goals
- Who will live there, now and in ten years
- How many bedrooms and bathrooms you really need
- Accessibility: steps, door widths, a bedroom on the ground floor
- Your budget range, and how you plan to pay
Questions to ask any builder
- When is the price fixed, and what are the allowances?
- Who prepares and submits the permit, and who answers corrections?
- Who is on site day to day, and how do they update you?
- What does the warranty cover, and is there a check-in after a year?
- Can you speak with two past clients?
Seattle's own ADU guide: SDCI accessory dwelling units. Other cities publish their own rules.