Converting Tuff Shed to Rental

[Zen Freese]

Hello BG,

I'm considering installing a large two-story tuff shed in my back yard- I'll make it fully habitable by adding Electric, Plumbing, insulation, drywall. etc.

It won't officially comply with ADU code (as the roofline must match and only a two-story barn model is available in my area) however it's my understanding that I can still rent the space (as one would rent a room in their own house). It won't technically be it's own unit in the eyes of the city, but should make an attractive rental unit.

My question is if anyone has converted a Tuff Shed into a rental unit and if there are any fundamental issues with this strategy? I'm aware there will be plenty of work to make it a habitable and comfortable unit. My main concern would be construction issues where framing or any major component would need to be "re-done" to match code.

Thank you in advance, and any links to forums or groups who have taken this sort of project on would be greatly appreciated! 

Best,

Zen

PS. Portland Oregon Based

[Brad Hammond]

Hey @Zen Freese, I looked at converting an existing Tuff Shed into an ADU here with a client, and my thoughts we the same as @David Lee Hall, III and @Dave E. regarding code violations.  There is a TON that goes into getting a certificate of occupancy, so make sure you are talking with the permitting department before you dive all in.  Going through that process won't cost too much money (a lot of time though) so you could always start the process and see what they say.