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Add living space, rental income, or a home for family — right on your University Place property. Cascade Pro, Inc designs and builds accessory dwelling units throughout University Place and Pierce County, handling everything from initial design and city permits to final inspection.
Whether you’re planning a detached backyard cottage, converting an existing garage, or adding a basement apartment, our team manages the full process so you don’t have to.
University Place allows several types of accessory dwelling units depending on your property and zoning. Cascade Pro builds all of them:
A standalone structure built on your property, separate from the main house. Detached ADUs are the most popular option, offering maximum privacy for both the homeowner and the occupant. They work best on lots with adequate backyard space and proper setbacks.
An addition built onto your existing home with its own separate entrance. This is a strong option when backyard space is limited or when you want the unit connected to the main house for accessibility or family use.
Convert your existing detached or attached garage into a fully permitted living space. Garage conversions are often the most cost-effective ADU option because the structure is already in place. We handle structural upgrades, insulation, plumbing, electrical, and finishes to bring it up to residential code.
If your home has an unfinished or partially finished basement, converting it into a legal ADU can add significant value with a lower construction footprint. We ensure proper egress windows, ceiling height compliance, moisture control, and separate entry as required by building code.
Every accessory dwelling unit project follows a structured process to keep timelines tight and surprises to a minimum:
Building an ADU in University Place is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make — but only when it’s done right. University Place is one of the most desirable communities in Pierce County, known for excellent schools, Chambers Bay, and well-kept residential neighborhoods. With a median household income of $95K, UP homeowners are well-positioned to invest in property improvements that add real value.
ADU costs in University Place vary based on the type of unit, size, site conditions, finishes, and whether you’re building new construction or converting existing space. Garage and basement conversions typically come in at a lower price point than ground-up detached units because they leverage an existing structure.
Key factors that influence your project budget:
We provide detailed, transparent estimates after our initial site assessment so you know what to expect before any work begins. Every project is different — we’ll walk you through the numbers and help you make informed decisions that fit your budget.
Most residential lots in University Place are eligible for at least one ADU, though requirements vary by zoning, lot size, and access. During our consultation, we’ll verify your lot’s eligibility and walk you through what’s possible on your specific property.
Timelines vary by project type. A typical detached ADU takes roughly 6 to 10 months from design through completion, including the permitting phase. Garage and basement conversions can often be completed faster since the existing structure reduces construction time. We’ll give you a realistic timeline during our initial assessment.
Owner-occupancy requirements vary by jurisdiction. Many areas have relaxed or removed this requirement in recent years. We’ll clarify the current rules for your specific property during our consultation.
In most cases, yes. A well-built, permitted ADU adds usable square footage and income potential to your property. The actual value increase depends on the unit type, size, finishes, and location within University Place.
Yes. We manage the entire permitting process, including plan submission, revisions, and coordination with inspectors. You don’t have to navigate the building department on your own.
Short-term rental regulations vary by city and are subject to change. We build every ADU to full residential code, which keeps your options open regardless of how you choose to use the space. We recommend checking current local regulations before planning a short-term rental use.
Whether you’re planning a backyard cottage, converting a garage, finishing a basement, or adding on to your home — Cascade Pro, Inc is ready to make it happen. We’ve helped homeowners throughout University Place navigate the ADU process from first sketch to final walkthrough, and we’d love to do the same for you.
Call us today: (253) 338-1693 or fill out the form to schedule your free consultation.
Tell us about your accessory dwelling unit project. We offer free consultations for University Place homeowners.
University Place is one of the most desirable residential communities in the South Puget Sound, known for its well-maintained neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and proximity to Chambers Bay Golf Course. Homeowners here take pride in their properties, and home improvement projects in U.P. tend to deliver strong returns on investment thanks to the area's consistently high demand.
The housing stock in University Place is predominantly mid-century to 1990s-era single-family homes, many of which are prime candidates for basement remodeling, room additions, and ADU construction. Neighborhoods like Sunset, Bridgeport, Cirque, and the areas surrounding Chambers Creek Properties each have their own character and specific considerations we're well versed in.
University Place operates under its own municipal code with a planning department that emphasizes maintaining the community's residential character. We work closely with U.P.'s Community Development office to ensure every project — from a garage conversion to a full room addition — aligns with local setback, height, and lot coverage standards. Our experience across dozens of U.P. projects means we know exactly what to expect at each phase of the permitting and inspection process.
