With many homeowners looking at improving their family home footprint, Cowan Building examines the popular addition to many residences – the humble Granny Flat.
The Granny Flat has certainly become a growing trend in many suburban and rural areas. These self-contained little rooms can double as extra entertaining space, rental accommodation, guest sleep-outs, and the home office.
According to the 2019 CoreLogic/Archistart Granny Flat Report a granny flat can boost your home’s value by a whopping 30%. Plus, it can add around 27% to rental income.
This is a huge drawing card for many homeowners who are looking to increase the value, or size of their homes. However, it’s important to consider the planning and consent of these interesting little spaces.
Firstly, it is vital you seek professional advice in terms of your council rules and regulations. It is not uncommon to hear of many granny flats and offices being torn down due to them not having the correct resource consents. These can vary from place to place, so before you start planning it is imperative you get a good understanding of what needs to be done before building.
You’ll need to consider:
How big will the Granny Flat be? – different councils will have different consents depending on size.
Will it be self-contained? – Bathrooms may also need consent, especially in consideration to waste removal.
Usage? This is also important. What will the space be used for? Family guests only? Office space? Or if you are intending on renting this space or using it as a paid accommodation area. If you are considering renting the space, even to a friend, you’ll need to comply with the Tenancy Act. It’s also a good idea to ensure you choose carefully if you are thinking of renting the space. Considering parking, guests, maintenance of shared spaces, noise, and privacy for both parties will be an important aspect.
Stand Alone or Attached? Again, you will need to consider the total footprint of your proposed idea. Attached may be more budget-conscious but will not give you the freedom of design when it comes to a stand-alone structure.
Budget? – Remembering that your total build cost will vary depending on if you are increasing the size of your home (attached) or creating a total free-standing space. Keep in mind the importance of the long-term goal, will this add value to my home? Or just another room?
Self-Contained Granny Flats
Most Granny Flats are self-contained, meaning they have a bathroom area and a possible kitchen. When it comes to creating a completely separate dwelling, you’ll need not only a building consent but also a resource consent. Enlisting a top-quality builder is paramount who can also help you jump through all the necessary hoops to ensure your build is compliant with all the rules and regulations of your chosen area. Drainage, sewage use, and water regulations will also need to be kept into consideration. Some rural dwellings may need to increase their sewage storage units and water tanks.
DIY v Professionals
With all home renovations and extensions, it’s important to seek advice from professionals. You want your Granny Flat or extension to stand the test of time, with quality materials and quality tradespeople. This will guarantee your investment and resale value of the existing home while also enring it is 100% legal. It is not uncommon to hear of structures being forcibly removed due to the wrong consents, and legal issues.
Need advice? Let Cowan Building guide you with professional service and stress-free builds.