GRANNY FLAT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Building a granny flat in your backyard for most S.E. Queensland properties is achievable. It is important to note that there are many varibles a builder needs to consider which may have a financial impact such as: free and clear access to the site, are there Council easements, are there boundary restrictions, what is the soil classification and what obstacles do existing structures and trees need to be taken into account.

A site plan accurately positions the existing structures and trees on the property, and will show the position of the granny flat so that the Certifier and trades people have a clear understanding of the project being proposed.

A building permit is required when a Class 1 building is to be constructed. Class 1 is more restrictive in the building process than say a Class 10, which could be a shed or carport. The builder is responsible for the builder permit and to adhere to any special conditions relating to the property.

Land Zoning can be for bushfire, cyclones, flooding or any other zoning noted by the local council where special conditions for construction will apply, such as the type of external materials to be used, or the height of floor level that is required. Zoning restrictions usually mean additional costs to be incurred.

Making changes to a design cosmetically is permitted, such as moving a wall or increasing the ceiling height. Where a modification is not cosmetic such as changing the roof line from pitched to Skillion or changing the details of the kitchen or bathroom that involves the plumbing aspect, the design team will be required to spend a number of work hours to make those charges and fees will apply.

Yes, you can use your own design bearing in mind that the design/sketch will need to be remodelled using our computer graphics before we can provide you with a building estimate for construction.

How long for construction of a granny flat will largely depend on the size. Example, a 24sqm floor plan will not take as long as a 60sqm floor plan. Allow for 12 weeks.

Choosing between slab or stumps foundation should be based on the property. Slab construction is maintenance free compared with stumps. Slab is also warmer in the cooler months and vice a versus, however stumps construction is the alternative option where the land poses some obstacles.

Building materials used! are either Hardieflex cladding or weatherboard, Hardieflex being the cheapest option. There are different types of weatherboard depending on the budget. If you are looking for a similar look/feel as the existing house, this can be achieved by using the same paint colours. Brick veneer granny flats are expensive and you may be over capitalizing.

Building on top of the garage might be possible but a lot depends on the integrity of the existing garage and where its possible to connect with the sewerage. A Development Approval application for a material change of use will be required before a building permit is granted.

A quantity take off or materials list is provided upon request and additional fees will be incurred. It is a comprehensive list of all the materials required for any model.

It is generally understood that an owner builder has a good grasp of the building industry and can interpret working drawings. NDG is available where further explanation is required regarding interpretation of the working drawings.

The owner builder permit is generally done online and will require a full set of working drawings as part of the application process.