How to build a granny flat step by step

If you're thinking of building a granny flat, there are plenty of things to think about before starting. Firstly, what type of property are you buying? Do you have access to a lot of space? What type of weather does it get in your area? all these questions will come to your mind when you are planning to build a granny flat. In this short guide, we'll take a look at some of the things you'll need to consider before you start your project.

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Also See: How to Choose the Perfect Location for Your Granny Flat?

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STEP 1 – Let’s Get the Ball Rolling

The first step to building a granny flat is to come up with a design that meets your needs.  The best way to do this is to start with a list of your needs and wants and prioritize them. This will help you to plan the space more effectively and make the most of your budget. You'll also need to work out what sort of amenities you want in your granny flat - for example, kitchen facilities, bathroom(s), heating, cooling, etc. Once you've drawn up your plan, you can start looking for an architect or builder to help you to put your vision into reality. At this stage, it's important to make sure your building complies with all the relevant regulations and codes. We will be able to advise you on this. 

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Tip: If you don't have a lot of experience in this area, it might be worth getting the help of a construction professional to help you plan and design your space.

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Read about :

• 1 Bedroom Granny Flat Designs 

• 2 Bedroom Granny Flat Designs

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Also See: 13 Reasons to Consider Adding a Granny Flat to Your Property

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STEP 2 – Site Evaluation (2 Days)

We will visit your property to evaluate the requirements and provide you with a preliminary quote for the Design, Approval, and Construction of your Granny Flat. We will conduct a site assessment and prepare a preliminary design and cost estimate for your approval. We will also advise you of any regulatory requirements that may affect the design of your Granny Flat. This stage may take up to two days depending on the size of the site and the complexity of the project.  Our preliminary design and cost estimate will include structural plans, elevations, and specification details.

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Also see: 10 Things About Granny Flats No One Will Tell You

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STEP 3 – Quotation (1 Week)

We liaise with you to understand your design requirements and then we provide you with a fixed quote for your granny flat. We provide a detailed quotation that includes all required documentation for the project. This includes a project timeline and the breakdown of costs by trade. We also send an Architect’s Certificate to you for local council approvals where applicable. This stage may take up to one week depending on the size and complexity of the project.

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STEP 4 – Design & Approval (4-6 weeks)

We commence the design of your granny flat and submit all documentation required for approval. During this stage, we invite you to our showroom and you are given the opportunity to select the colours and finishes of your choice. We also discuss any custom architectural features that you may want to be incorporated into the design. Your input is important to our design team and we always welcome your input during the design and building process. The design process usually takes between four and six weeks depending on the complexity of the project.

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Also See: How to Choose a Granny Flat Builder

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STEP 5 – Construction (10 weeks)

• Site Establishment (Week 1)

• In-ground Services and Foundations (Week 2)

• External Walls and Roof (Week 3-5)

• Internal Finishes (Weeks 6-9)

• Final touches & Handover (Week 10)

 

Site Establishment (Week 1)

Site establishment refers to the preparation of the site for construction including site works such as excavations, footings, slabs, etc. This stage takes approximately one to two weeks.

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In-ground Services and Foundations (Week 2)

In-ground services include services such as sewer connections, water connections, and electrical supply points. These services must be connected to the existing on-site infrastructure prior to the construction of your granny flat. Foundation works are also completed during this stage. The foundation is the cornerstone of the house and provides a strong foundation to support the building. An engineer oversees the excavation and installation of the foundations to ensure structural integrity.

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External Walls and Roof (Week 3-5)

External walls usually consist of a steel frame with weatherboard cladding and a corrugated metal roof. This frame is usually constructed in two stages, with the first stage comprising the roof and the second comprising the walls and entry doors. Once the walls are erected, a plaster finish is applied to the external walls. Next, the external doors and windows are installed to complete the exterior of your home. At this stage, the builder will provide you with the opportunity to select from a variety of door colours and window styles to suit your personal taste.

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Internal Finishes (Weeks 6-9)

Once the walls are erected, internal wall linings are applied to ensure the rooms in your home have a professional finish. Ceiling tiles are then fixed into place and painted to provide a smooth finish in the living areas of the home. Carpeting and vinyl flooring are then laid throughout the home to complete the interior finishing.

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Final touches & Handover (Week 10)

During the final stage of construction, your builder will complete any outstanding tasks and finalize the handover of your home. All that remains is to move your belongings in and enjoy your new home!

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The Granny Flat Experts blog is a leading Australian website for providing advice and information about granny flats.

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