Frequently Asked Questions

Washington State’s HB 1337 requires most cities—including Tumwater, Olympia, and Lacey—to allow up to two Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) per residential lot (detached, attached, or garage conversion). However, local municipal zoning still governs setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, and sewer vs. LOTT/septic connections. We pull your parcel’s exact zoning designation during our feasibility review before designing anything.

Yes. Too many projects stall in the gap between an outside architect’s drawing and field construction reality. Capitol Custom Construction provides builder-led Architectural and Structural Design using 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) and manages all municipal and county permitting from start to finish.

Yes. Every solid build starts below grade. We handle low-impact site clearing, precision foundation over-excavation, utility trenching, engineered retaining wall prep, and integrated Pacific Northwest drainage infrastructure.

If your remodel involves moving plumbing or gas lines, altering electrical circuits, or removing load-bearing walls for an open-concept layout, a building permit is required and we handle the entire submission and inspection process. Purely cosmetic refreshes within the same footprint typically do not require structural permitting.

Western Washington’s rainy season and high ambient humidity demand superior waterproofing and ventilation. We treat proper exhaust fan sizing, exterior venting, and complete membrane waterproofing behind every custom tile shower and floor as core structural requirements—never optional upgrades.

For low maintenance in year-round rain or coastal salt air (like Westport and Ocean Shores), high-performance composite decking (such as WOLF composite boards) paired with Fortress Aluminum railings and marine-grade stainless steel fasteners delivers unmatched longevity. We also build custom cedar and pressure-treated decks and covered porches with proper house-ledger flashing and deep footings.

Isolated shingle damage or minor flashing leaks on a newer roof can often be repaired. Widespread granule loss, heavy moss degradation, or original 1980s–1990s composition roofs at the 20–30 year mark usually warrant a full tear-off and replacement using Presidential asphalt shingles, architectural shingles, or standing-seam metal roofing.