A Granny flat is a small dwelling with basic facilities where grandparents can get a peaceful atmosphere for the stay. It is a self-contained housing unit and can be used by an aging parent as a single-family dwelling. Granny Flats can be independent houses or connected with rest of the family homes. Adding a granny flat is profitable in housing investment sector as it can raise the resale value of homes. A granny flat is built to provide privacy and support to senior citizens. The construction of granny flats is very popular in Australia.

Granny Flats Are of Several Varieties and Designs Which Are as Follows:

• Custom-built
• Pre-fabricated
• Transportable
• Flat racks

The construction of a granny flat needs some basic and fundamental points such as legal implications or obtaining planning permits, selection of authentic builder, climatic considerations, building design, material selection and finally the incorporation of customer friendly features.
Legal Aspects 

One can either build granny flats or assign the contract to a trusted builder. Granny flats can be built in the same way as a residence. In few nations like New South Wales, there is a planning legislation applicable to the entire state. The client or builder has to apply for Development application by taking help from the local council. It takes 6 to 8 months to get the approval. The client has to provide contribution fee of 20,000 USD. Sometimes, a planning permit is required for the commencement of construction. All granny flats must conform to the building code of Australia.

While selecting a granny flats design, the buyer must ensure that the company complies with moral and ethical principles. There must be enough transparency. Also, the firm must be accountable to its clients and there should be transparency in communication. One should consult only a fully licensed builder for construction of granny flats. Clients must not entirely believe in prices provided online. The actual cost covers everything such as building and site issues. One should select a cost-effective option that designs your granny flat according to specifications.

Environmental Considerations

Construction of a granny flat requires the builder to consider environmental and local factors like

• Stormwater
• Easements

Clients must check previous records of the company and its database of satisfied customers. They must know about the areas in which the builder firms have accomplished their previous works.
Clients should preferably take the help or advice of a builder who has prior experience of building in an identical location. For instance, if the client wants the building in a coastal area, he must try and contact such builders who have built in such areas before. The special conditions pertaining to each area must be kept in mind.

Technical Aspects: Building Materials Selection and Building Design

The building components must be of high quality and durable. They should be anti-corrosive or rust free. There should be minimal risk of termite attack. The room acoustics should be good.

The building design must incorporate large windows and doors. The room must have an adequate number of doors and windows. It must be well ventilated and airy. There should be the provision of natural daylight. So The walls must be insulated with suitable materials such as fibreboard.

Customised Attributes

Granny flats are simple yet welcoming. However, it is better to consider individual likes and dislikes. If a person takes interest in aesthetic looks, it is better to construct a granny flat with an aesthetic impact. The choice of building material must also be as per the wishes who will ultimately stay there. The color of paint must also reflect individual tastes. So according to the tastes of the granny client, walls can be of light or deep color. With such features, a granny flat will look like a dream home and not merely a place to stay.