Help us count the backyard and basement apartments in Ward 3

A home in Portland, Oregon with an accessory dwelling in the back. (photo from AccessoryDwellings.org, used under Creative Commons license)

To spare you the long introduction: We are doing a survey! Do you have an ADU? In the process of adding one? We’re trying to get a count of how many ADUs exist or will soon in Ward 3. You’ll find the survey here and below.

Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, seem to be having a moment. Also known as in-law suites and granny flats, ADUs can be converted garages, renovated basements, a cottage in the yard, or any other space carved out for a small apartment.

And they could be a means of expanding affordable housing in Ward 3 without waiting years for new affordable units in multifamily developments.

Last December, the Coalition for Smarter Growth and United Planning Organization released a free how-to manual on ADUs. As reported by The Washington Post in March, the manual was written “to reach low- and moderate-income homeowners who could benefit from the wealth-building opportunity.” The guide’s co-authors summarized some key takeaways in an article for Greater Greater Washington, such as common dwelling types and estimated costs.

And we saw that Travis Price Architects has partnered with a firm that installs backyard ADUs. There are three models – all constructed out of shipping containers.

Travis Price, who is a Forest Hills neighbor, told Forest Hills Connection that he sees ADU possibilities in our area. Many single-family homeowners have room on their lots. In fact, in much of Ward 3, it is permitted as a matter of right to convert part of your house or build a detached unit.

Another indication that Ward 3 properties are well suited for ADUs: Many of our neighbors already have them. But how many? That’s what we hope to find out.

The question of affordability – for the owner and potential renters – is one we will tackle at another time. But for now, let’s try to put a number on ADUs in Ward 3. If you have one or would like to add one, help us out by filling out our survey below or at bit.ly/31wBcpu. Or send it to neighbors who have an ADU.