Several elements define the construction of a granny flat and all of them can affect the final price greatly. Here’s a detailed look at the primary elements that affect granny flat costs:
- Size and Design:
Size: The size of the granny flat is quite an important factor when it comes to the costs. They measure between 40 and 100 square meters and rather easily distinguish between a granny flat and a townhouse or apartment house.
Larger units will always be costly since the amount of material and labour that goes into the construction of a unit will be higher. For instance, a granny flat of 60 square meters will be cheaper in comparison to a granny flat of 80 square meters.
Design Complexity: The level of complexity introduced to the design means certain costs have to be incurred. Basic geometrical shapes like squares and rectangles cost less as compared to other complicated plans or designs.
Any special details like having a high ceiling, large windows or other designs like having a loft will of course be added to the general cost. Custom designs take more planning and engineering work and this explains why they are expensive.
- Construction Materials:
Standard Materials: Most of the standard construction materials which are simple bricks, timber frame, and ordinary finishing make the project cheaper. They are easily accessible and in most cases are cheaper compared to the other materials.
Premium Materials: Choosing expensive materials, premium bricks, designer tiles or any type of material that can be eco-friendly will yet again add onto the expenses. Other costs include; plastering, tiling, painting or polishing the walls, floors, ceilings, countertops, and other fixtures and fittings as well as other high-end accessories.
- Site Preparation and Accessibility:
Site Preparation: Cost may be incurred in preparing the site for construction. Some of these are ground preparation that involves; grading, removal of vegetation and drainage. Site preparation costs may run between $2,000 and $10,000 this is based on the state of the site and its requirements.
Accessibility: If the site is not readily accessible it might call for the use of special tools or extra manpower hence pushing up the costs. Difficult ground conditions, for example very narrow access, steep slopes or limited workspace for construction machinery, account for extra costs. This can be an additional of as much as $1,000 up to $5,000 to the total cost.
- Utilities and Infrastructure:
Utility Connections: The installation costs when the granny flat is to be connected to the available utility such as water, electricity or sewage. In case the granny flat is located in an area that is quite a distance from existing services, the cost of extending the services may go between $2,000 – $10,000.
Heating and Cooling: The electrical wiring or automatic room air conditioning, central air conditioning, central heating, etc., will also increase the price. The cost of creating this system may vary between $2,000 – $5,000 depending on the intricacy and effectiveness of the system.
- Labour Costs:
Construction Labour: The cost of labour related to the construction of a granny flat depends on the geographical location of the project as well as the difficulty level of the work.
It is worth underlining that the average cost of labour might fluctuate within the interval of $1,500 to $3,000 per square meter. These comprise site preparation, excavation, laying of the foundation, framework, roofing, and the final touches on the building.
Specialised Trades: Other basic trades like electrician, plumber and painter may be called for during the construction. Their charges could be as low as $ 500 and as high as $2,000 depending on the project they undertake and or prices in the region.
- Regulations and Approvals:
Building Permits: The next step involves obtaining all the peruse and approvals which may cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Some of the general rules governing buildings and their construction may differ with the region and thus require further discussions with local councils.
Design and Compliance: Taking the building codes and zoning laws into consideration may require further consultations with the architects or planners. This can escalate costs between $500 and $2,000 more.
- Additional Features:
Landscaping: Additional features to the granny flat may include landscaping where pathways, gardens or even the outdoor living areas add to the cost. Minor work to landscape a yard will cost between $2,000 to $10,000 depending on the design used and the materials to be incorporated.
Furnishing and Decoration: Furnishing and decorating the granny flat will attract additional costs if you intend to undertake the same. This also applies to products like furniture, curtains and other ornaments. This depends on your selection and it can cost as much as between $2,000 and $10,000 for these additional services.