What to expect when building a Granny Flat
March 30, 2026
From first call to final handover, this process is easy to follow and understand.
With over 25 years of industry experience, we've built our reputation on designing and building Granny Flats that genuinely solve problems for clients. We specialise in this space because we're passionate about helping you expand your living areas and unlock the potential in your property.
After so many years in the industry and building thousands of successful projects, we've refined our process to eliminate the stress, confusion and surprises that can come with building. Whether you work with us or not, this process is an easy-to-follow guide that you can use so that you know what to look out for and expect when building a Granny Flat.
Step 1: Complete Your Discovery Call
We start with a simple discovery call. No pressure, no sales pitch, just a genuine conversation about what you're looking to achieve.
We'll find out if and how we can help you with your Granny Flat, discuss your vision for your property, and check the planning requirements for your specific location. If everything looks good, we'll book a time to inspect your site.
This isn't about locking you in, it's about making sure we can actually deliver on your goals and that a Granny Flat is the right solution for you.
Step 2: Site Visit and Fixed Price Quote
After the initial call, we'll complete a site visit and discuss exactly what you're looking for. We'll review and measure your property, choose the best location, analyse site conditions and work out the best solution for your specific situation.
This will include our builder Sam, who is also the director, who'll be overseeing your project, coming to your home and discussing locations, size, potential issues before they become problems and suggest design tweaks that could save you thousands. This way you’re dealing firsthand with an experienced builder with decades of hands-on knowledge who knows exactly what it takes to turn your sloping block, tight access or challenging conditions into a beautiful home.
Then comes the part everyone wants to know about: the price.
Within 48 hours of the site visit, you'll receive your fixed-price quote. This is the price. Not an estimate. Not a "subject to change" number. The actual amount you'll pay for your Granny Flat, locked in and guaranteed.
Your build will be completed for this agreed fixed price upfront, so you know exactly how much you need to invest. There will be no hidden costs – that's our promise to you.
This approach eliminates cost blow-outs during construction. No hidden extras. No surprise variations. No budget panic halfway through the build and it’s a guarantee we pride ourselves on. This is not something all builders offer, so when choosing your builder, we recommend clarifying this with them and checking your contract so that you minimise the chance of any hidden surprises sneaking up on you.
Step 3: Building Approvals Application
Once you've signed your HIA contract and we've received your deposit, we take care of everything needed to get your building or council approval.
We'll complete all application documents, coordinate and collate all the required information and reports, submit them to the certifier, and follow up to keep things moving.
This includes:
• Detailed survey of your property
• Locator check to identify exact locations of all services; water, sewer, and stormwater
• Soil test to ensure proper foundation design
• Plan development from concept through to working drawings
• Engineer's design for structural integrity
• Energy assessment to meet 7-star compliance requirements
• Certifier lodgement
• Council lodgement (if required by your design or location)
We manage every single detail and chase every approval. You're not navigating this alone. We've done it so many times and know exactly how to get things moving efficiently.
Step 4: Colours, Fixtures and Fittings
Now for the fun part — bringing your vision to life!
Prior to lodgement of your approvals, we'll meet with you to select the colours, fixtures, and fittings for your Granny Flat. This stage runs in parallel with the design process, so we're making the most of every week and keeping your project timeline as tight as possible.
It's all about your style and your needs. We have a range of examples on hand so you can see and touch the actual products going into your home. From benchtop finishes and tapware to flooring and paint colours.
Once you've made your choices and signed off on the selections, we'll supply everything directly to our trades and suppliers so they're ready to go the moment construction begins.
Step 5: Granny Flat Construction
Once approvals are received, it's go time. You'll be added to a WhatsApp chat with our team and invited to our Project Management Client Portal, so you can see exactly what's happening at every stage. We'll give you a confirmed site start date, and then our project supervisor and team of experienced tradespeople will start on the construction of your Granny Flat.
Our standard construction timeline is 14-18 weeks, subject to weather and if your Granny Flat is being built on a slab or poles.
Throughout construction, you'll see the same faces on-site. Our reliable trade base who has worked with us for years. They know that they're working in your backyard, in your space, and they treat you and your property with the respect it deserves.
Our project supervisor will complete each stage and go through the progress with you, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
Step 6: Completion and Handover
Then comes the big moment! Your Granny Flat is completed, and we hand it over to you. We'll review everything together to make sure you're completely happy and that your new space is ready to move in to.
We walk through every detail, answer any questions, and make sure you understand how everything works. Many of our handovers end with hugs – that's just how we do business.
This isn't just about ticking a box; it's about making sure you're genuinely thrilled with what we've built for you.
We're not just building Granny Flats - we're redefining what they can be. High quality, custom designed homes that add value to your property and create genuine solutions for your family or investment goals.
If you're considering a Granny Flat book your discovery call
or call us on 1300 109 329.
Your backyard has potential. Let's unlock it together.









