Washington State is tackling the housing shortage head-on, and two groundbreaking new laws—House Bill 1110 and House Bill 1337—are set to transform the residential landscape. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to boost your property value, generate rental income, or explore new development opportunities, these bills open doors to exciting possibilities.

Here at Axe Engineering, we’re ready to help you navigate these changes, cut through project barriers, and maximize your property’s potential!

 

What Are HB 1110 and HB 1337?

House Bill 1110: Expanding Middle Housing Options

HB 1110 makes it easier to add “middle housing” in areas traditionally zoned for single-family homes. This includes:

  • Duplexes, triplexes, and even sixplexes on residential lots.
  • Higher-density allowances within ¼ mile of major transit stops to encourage affordable, walkable communities.

The goal? Increase housing supply, lower costs, and make neighborhoods more accessible without expanding urban sprawl.

House Bill 1337: Easier Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

HB 1337 removes many of the restrictions that have made ADU development complicated or expensive. Key highlights include:

  • Homeowners can now add up to 2 ADUs per lot in urban growth areas.
  • No owner-occupancy rules: You don’t have to live on the property to rent out the ADUs.
  • Simplified rules for setbacks, parking, and building size, making projects faster and more affordable.

Whether it’s a backyard cottage, a basement apartment, or a converted garage, ADUs offer flexibility, value, and rental income for homeowners.

 

What Does This Mean for Homeowners?

These bills present a rare opportunity to unlock your property’s full potential. Here’s how:

1. Boost Your Property Value with Permit-Ready ADUs

By working with Axe Engineering to get permits for two new ADUs, your property instantly becomes more valuable—even before construction begins. With permits in hand, you can:

  • Sell to a builder or developer looking for a ready-to-start project, commanding a higher sale price.
  • Build and rent the ADUs yourself to create additional income streams.

2. Generate Rental Income to Offset Your Mortgage

Imagine your mortgage payment being fully covered by rental income. With the new laws, adding ADUs to your property has never been easier. Whether you’re renting to long-term tenants, offering multi-generational housing, or creating private guest spaces, the income potential is real.

3. Flexible Solutions for Modern Families

ADUs are ideal for multi-generational living, offering independent spaces for aging parents, adult children, or extended family. It’s a win-win: privacy and proximity combined.

 

How Axe Engineering Can Help You Make It Happen

Navigating new regulations, securing permits, and ensuring compliance can be a challenge—but that’s where Axe Engineering comes in. We specialize in making projects seamless, efficient, and successful.

Here’s how we can help:

  • Fixed-Fee Pricing: No surprises, no guesswork—just clear, upfront costs to help you plan.
  • Permitting Expertise: From site analysis to stormwater design, we handle all aspects of the permitting process to get your project approved quickly.
  • Drainage / Stormwater Solutions: We ensure compliance with Washington’s strict stormwater requirements while keeping your project on track.
  • Connections to Builders and Developers: Ready to sell? We can help connect you with the right team to bring your permit-ready project to life.

We’ve done this before—successfully cutting project review times and helping homeowners and developers bring their visions to life.

 

Now’s the Time to Take the Next Step

With House Bills 1110 and 1337 in place, there’s never been a better time to explore what’s possible for your property. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value, generate income, or prepare for a sale, Axe Engineering is here to help you make it happen—quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

Let’s turn this opportunity into reality. Contact us today to get started!

📞 Call us at (360) 922-0549 or contact us for more information!

 

We’ll Keep You Updated

At Axe Engineering, we’re always looking ahead. Check back often for updates on how these laws are being implemented in cities like Edmonds, Lynden, and across Snohomish, Skagit, and Whatcom Counties. We’ll also be sharing project highlights and success stories—stay tuned!