What is a Granny Flat?
What is a granny flat? A granny flat is a second dwelling either adjoining an already existing home or in the backyard next to one. They are designed for between one and two people and are self-contained living spaces.
It was originally called a granny flat because it was a convenient, affordable way to accommodate ageing relatives or parents without paying for aged care or retirement facilities.
To help you answer the question ‘what is a granny flat’, let’s start with what we know. Within the construction industry, we often call it an accessory apartment or more commonly, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Some people might refer to it alternatively as a granny pod, mother-in-law unit, carriage unit, bonus unit, or casita.
You might also be aware of the tiny house movement which has taken over, particularly in younger people looking to build their first home. But it’s not just young homeowners looking to get their foot in the door; families and retirees are attracted to the idea for its low cost, easy maintenance, and potential investment value.
What is a Granny Flat’s Dimensions?
On average, a small home is between 100 and 400 square feet, even being as little as 80 square feet and as large as 700 square feet. Of course, this all depends on the local council and State stipulations and the property it’s being built on.
Knowing the regulations is extra work, yes, but it will save you hundreds if not thousands in the long run!
What is a Granny Flat Used For?
Granny flats can be used for grandparents who want to play an active role in the lives of their children and grandchildren. It is a great way to maintain privacy whilst ensuring someone is close at hand should there be an emergency or just for general childminding.
Another common use is in the rental market. Often young couples looking for their first home or anyone looking for cheaper accommodation will be attracted to the idea of a granny flat. This is especially the case in recent years as granny flats increased in popularity and with it, the quality.
For a while, multigenerational housing has been taboo, unaccepted by the mainstream. However, that time is no more. As urbanisation hits our cities and forces the cost of living higher, people are valuing the role that their family plays in providing them an opportunity to enter the property market.
It is definitely the way to go and reports from real estate agents indicate that having a second dwelling on a property can be a real selling point.
What is a Granny Flat and What are the Restrictions to Building One?
There are a couple of things to be aware of before building a granny flat, as with any building project. Potential limitations on the build include council statutes, zoning laws, neighbourhood relationships, building restrictions, and other regulations specific to your local area.
At Premier Granny Flats, we know your local area inside and out. We have the best builders and the smartest designers on hand to ensure that all guidelines are being abided by in the design and build phase of your project.
Sometimes we see homeowners sidestep or ignore the regulations surrounding granny flats and it often leads to trouble down the line. Not knowing what you’re walking into can mean making unwanted changes in the middle of the build which can cause worker hours to accumulate and materials to be acquired.
Don’t risk getting it wrong, get in touch for a free online assessment and quote today!
Granny Flats Come with Many Advantages
Whilst it’s important to be aware of the restrictions, it’s equally as important to know that granny flats come with big benefits too. At the beginning of this article, you were asking ‘what is a granny flat?’ By the end, we’ll think you’ll be asking ‘why didn’t I build one sooner?’
Aside from the obvious benefit of providing an extra living space for family members or renters, a granny flat offers additional security in the form of another tenant on your property. This security and support extend to childcare, taking care of the lawn, as well as general maintenance.
So, what is a granny flat good for? It’s good for your property, it’s good for your family, it’s good for the property market, it’s good for you. With an incredible amount of variety and customisation now available, having a granny flat on your property has never been easier, more affordable, or better for you!
Contact the friendly team and Premier Granny Flats today – don’t get left behind.