The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Built Granny Flats

Granny flats are pre-constructed housing units that provide you with a quick and flexible option to create more living area on your property. While it may not make sense at first glance — after all, if you’re building your own dwelling in Victoria (which is most likely!), you’re usually putting at least some time and effort into it this is actually a very efficient way of doing so.

What are pre-built granny flats?

Pre-constructed granny flats are generally classified as a secondary dwelling. Depending on the local council area in Victoria, your granny flat could fall under the classification of a small secondary dwelling or a class two building.

Planning for the design of your pre-constructed granny flat is important. If you don’t choose the right design from the beginning, you may end up delaying your project.

Pre-constructed granny flats are built inside a factory. Since the construction happens in a controlled environment, the quality of work is more standard than if you were building your granny flat on your property.

Pre-Built Granny Flat Options with Premier Homes Victoria

If you’re thinking about adding a granny flat to your home in Victoria, you’ll be pleased to know that Premier Homes Victoria is one of the companies that will help you to get started. They offer a wide variety of styles and designs to suit your needs; you’ll have a good chance of finding a design that fits your style and fits your block.

Small Second Dwellings (Small Granny Flats)

These small, modern buildings are designed with and built using the latest technology to create more functional spaces for living. They are well-suited to properties that meet all local planning criteria for secondary constructions under a maximum area of 60m².

• The majority are one-bedroom designs.
• Include a full kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living areas.
• Efficient use of space as an affordable option for rental, guest or even independent living.

In addition to all of these features, there are also significant advantages in some areas, due to local councils streamlining the approval process for smaller dwelling types.

1 Bedroom Granny Flats

1 Bedroom Granny Flats are a great option for homeowners who would like to create additional living areas but do not wish to take up valuable space in their backyard or yard area. Granny flats are often used to provide additional rental income to an owner, as a home for adult children, as an alternative for family or friends, or as an investment rental.

• Typically contain a spacious open-plan living area.
• This includes a large open-plan kitchen, living and dining room area.
• Bedroom has ample storage and/or a large closet area.

2-Bedroom Granny Flats

2 Bedroom Granny Flat Models are a great alternative to traditional family or couple styles of living and provide more spacious areas, allowing you to have living arrangements for couples and allowing for more rental flexibility. 2-bedroom designs have the following advantages: 

• 2 separate bedrooms for private areas for family members.
• Larger living areas.
• Optional outdoor decks or verandahs are available.
• Larger practical storage areas and laundry areas.

Comparison of Granny Flat Types

Configuration	Target Demographic	Approx. size	Best For
Small Second Dwelling	Compact living/rental	Up to 60 m²	Smaller blocks, easier approval processes
1-Bedroom	Singles / Couples	~40-55 m²	Downsizers/Adult children
2-Bedroom	Couples / Families	~60-90 m²	Family living/Broader rental pool appeal

What are the costs involved with pre-built granny flats in Victoria?

It’s essential to understand the full scope of costs associated with a granny flat, not just the base unit price. In Victoria, the advertised cost generally includes the granny flat structure, internal finishes, plumbing and electrical fit-outs. Additional costs for site preparation, foundations and utilities connections (water, sewer & power supply) will be incurred. The cost to deliver the unit and place it will also need to be calculated, as well as any required council permits and inspections.

As a general rule, allow an extra 60-100% on top of the cost of the unit for the additional work associated with it. Having a site assessment done by a builder will help provide an accurate estimate for each of these costs, enabling you to budget accurately for your granny flat.

What is the installation process?

Most projects will follow the process stages:

1. Site and Feasibility Assessment

Checks to see if the site is suitable and preparation of a total cost for the installation are completed.

2. Design and Approval

Choosing the design of the granny flat and submission of a plan to the local council for approval.

3. Site Preparation

The installation site will be prepared by creating a foundation, trenching for utilities, etc., and utility works will be completed on-site.

4. Delivery and Installation

The unit will be delivered and placed at the site.

5. Final connections and Inspection

All utilities will be connected, and final property checks will be conducted.

The above process provides a clear and structured approach that significantly simplifies a potentially complex project.

Planning and Local Government Regulations

In Victoria, different rules and regulations depend on which local government authority you reside in. An important aspect of your planned development is to know:

• The maximum size (sqm) of the granny flat you can construct
• The minimum distance the granny flat must be from the boundaries of your property
• Any outdoor living space (private open space) and/or access requirements

By reviewing the planning provisions of your local council online and working with an experienced builder, you can ensure that your selected design is compliant from the beginning.

Why Choose Premier Homes Victoria?

Premier Homes Victoria has many years of experience designing and constructing pre-built granny flats and small second dwellings for Victorian homeowners. Premier Homes Victoria provides:

• A range of tried and tested floorplans that can be tailored to suit your property and lifestyle.
• Assistance with the design, approval, construction and delivery phases.
• All modern inclusions and features are ready for immediate use.
• Knowledge of the planning and building regulations in Victoria.

When you choose to construct a compact, small second dwelling, a one-bedroom retreat or a spacious two-bedroom home, Premier Homes Victoria will assist you from the planning stage to handover. Contact Premier Homes Victoria today to discuss the potential for a granny flat to be constructed in your backyard. There has never been a better time to look into building pre-built granny flats in Victoria or Melbourne, as the modern designs, functionalities and simplicity of the process to build a granny flat will give you an additional liveable space on your property and a potential investment return.