Where to start?
October 11, 2023
The process isn't as overwhelming as it seems, because we do it for you!
So you’ve received your 21-step checklist for building a granny flat
and now you’re wondering what next? We know that it can seem so overwhelming, especially the planning stage as there are many moving parts to coordinate a building approval, which is why we’ve tried to explain it by breaking it down into manageable steps.
In order to quote effectively, we do require your current plans from council. This step is crucial to move forward and obtain exact pricing as it allows us to work with the draftsperson to create a space specific to your block and will tell us pretty quickly how large we can make the dwelling based on your boundary and house set-backs. The plans will also indicate if there are easements we need to address when drafting a concept plan of the granny flat. Whilst it may seem inconvenient to outlay $500 to get your plans, the reality is they are needed, and it will prevent any costly design errors when drafting plans on the fly!
In our experience, we have found that there are two types of property buyers; the first finds a property falls in love, and wants to put an offer in but has no idea of their borrowing capacity, so hits a snag and can’t move forward – or they want a granny flat and would like to start next week. The other type has been working towards their vision and has a finance pre-approval formalised, some clients might even have plans and maybe even an approval ready to go, but otherwise are ‘ready to cut ground’ and they need a builder. We are able to work with either buyer type, but to the former type, we would strongly encourage you to work with a broker at this point so you understand your budget. This crucial bit of information will allow us to create a design that is the right size and specification to suit your budget.
While we aim to avoid council approvals where possible, we understand that sometimes you don't want to compromise on your dream – and we hear you. If your build requires council approval, here are some proven ways to ensure the process is as quick and smooth as possible. Don't Cut Corners on Documentation Want a surefire way to delay your approval? Submit incomplete plans or forget a key document. We've watched families wait months because they missed one piece of paperwork. Here's what you'll typically need for a smooth approval process: Site plan, floor plans, and elevations Engineering details (structural documentation) Sewer and stormwater plans Energy efficiency report Title search and site survey Any specialist reports (bushfire, acoustic, etc.) We can help you gather all the required documentation. Don't try to navigate this alone – it's not worth the risk of delays and costly mistakes. Get Pre-Approval Advice – It's a Game Changer Did you know you can book a pre-lodgement meeting with your local council? Whether you're building in Moreton, Ipswich, Logan, or Gold Coast, this gives you the opportunity to: Ask all your burning questions Clarify complex planning rules Get early feedback on your design Build rapport with the assessment team This can be absolute gold for challenging blocks or if your design pushes boundaries. Think of it as insurance against rejection. Be Ready to Respond Quickly Sometimes the council or certifier will come back with an RFI (Request for Information). Don't panic – this is completely normal. But here's where speed makes all the difference. The faster you respond with clear, complete answers, the faster your Granny Flat approval moves through the system. Treat these requests like priority mail, because that's exactly what they are. When in Doubt, Call in the Experts If your project hits a snag, for example zoning challenges or energy efficiency overwhelm, don't try to battle it alone. We've seen too many families get months into their project only to hit a roadblock, pushing back their builds and costing them valuable time and money. We know building a Granny Flat in South-East Queensland can be confusing, which is why we created the " 21 Steps to Building a Successful Granny Flat ". It's packed with real advice from our Queensland builds, including design tips, approval checklists, and insider shortcuts that most builders won't share. This isn't some generic guide. It's based on real projects we've completed – the kind of practical advice that only comes from actually doing the work, day in and day out.
Family-owned builder creating custom Granny Flats & extensions across Brisbane & Gold Coast. Quality homes with personal service, care, trust & integrity. Read on!
Learn how to fast-track building approval for your Granny Flat in South-East Queensland. Save time, avoid council delays, and build smarter. Read on!
Discover how one family’s backyard vision came to life with a quick custom granny flat by BCC Homes, crafted with care to suit their growing lifestyle. Read on!
Granny Flat investments offer strong market value. Learn how BCC Homes helps investors build wealth with high-yield, well-designed rental properties!
Ready to start your granny flat journey in 2025? BCC Homes designs compliant, stylish granny flats that complement your main dwelling. Read on for more details!
BCC Homes wraps up 2024 on a high note, delivering homes despite December challenges. Thank you to everyone who made this year so rewarding. Merry Christmas!
BCC Homes won the 2024 QLD HIA ‘Start-Up Business’ award in Brisbane, recognising innovation, quality, and commitment to affordable housing. Read more!
Discover how BCC Homes redefined the Granny Flat in Kingsholme, aligning its specifications with the main house to create a seamless living experience. Read on!
