GRANNY FLATS & SMALL DWELLINGS (UP TO 70m²)

A complete living solution, built the right way

ADDING A FULLY FUNCTIONAL LIVING SPACE

If you’re looking to add a fully self-contained living space to your property, a granny flat or small dwelling is often the right solution.

Unlike a simple cabin, these are designed for full-time use, with everything needed for comfortable day-to-day living.

This includes:
Kitchen and bathroom
Plumbing and drainage
Full insulation and lining systems
Electrical fit-off
Compliance with building regulations

The key is making sure it’s designed and built properly from the start, so it performs like a home, not just an add-on.

WHAT IS THE GRANNY FLAT EXEMPTION?

Recent changes to building rules allow certain small dwellings (up to 70m²) to be built without a full building consent, provided specific criteria are met.

This pathway can simplify the process and reduce upfront costs, but it still requires the build to meet all relevant Building Code requirements.

That means:
Work must still be completed to a high standard
Qualified professionals must be involved where required
Design and construction still need to comply with regulations
Site-specific factors still need to be considered

It’s not a shortcut, it’s simply a different process that still requires the job to be done properly.

WHEN A GRANNY FLAT MAKES SENSE

A granny flat or small dwelling is typically the right option when you need a complete, independent living environment.

Best suited for:
Independent living for family members
Rental or additional income
Long-term accommodation solutions
Guest housing with full facilities

This is a long-term investment in your property, not just extra space.

COST EXPECTATIONS

Granny flats and small dwellings typically start from:

$200,000 + GST

Final pricing depends on:
Size and layout
Level of finish and specifications
Site access and ground conditions
Service connections (power, water, drainage)
Design requirements

Because every site and build is different, pricing is always tailored to suit your specific project.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A TYPICAL BUILD

Each project is designed around your needs, but generally includes:

Full timber construction
Complete exterior cladding and roofing systems
Aluminium joinery
Internal linings and finishes
Insulation to current standards
Kitchen and bathroom fit-out
Plumbing and drainage
Electrical wiring and fit-off
Flooring throughout

We manage the build from start to finish, ensuring everything is done in the correct order and to the required standard.

WHAT CAN AFFECT YOUR PROJECT

Even under the exemption pathway, there are still factors that need to be worked through early:

Site access and placement
Ground conditions and foundation requirements
Service connections
Council requirements outside of building consent (such as planning rules)
Overall layout and usability of the space

Getting these right early avoids issues later.

BUILD PROCESS

Every project follows a structured approach:

Initial discussion to understand your goals
Site review and feasibility
Design and layout planning
Pricing and specification confirmation
Contract and scheduling
Construction and delivery

This ensures clarity from the beginning and avoids unexpected surprises.

NOT SURE IF THIS IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Most clients aren’t 100% sure at the start.

The best first step is a quick conversation to understand:
What you’re trying to achieve
What’s realistic on your site
What budget range makes sense

From there, we guide you toward the right solution and make sure it’s done properly.

NEXT STEP

Get in touch and tell us what you’re thinking.

We’ll help you plan it out, price it properly, and build it the right way.