Installing a granny flat or secondary dwelling on your property can add valuable living space for family or rental income. Hiring an experienced granny flat builder like Granny Flat Solutions is key, but not all builders are equal. Asking the right questions upfront ensures you choose the best construction team.
Here are twelve essential questions you should always ask any builder under consideration for your granny flat project:
- Are you licensed and insured?
Reputable builders must hold a current builder’s license for your state and carry adequate general liability insurance plus workers compensation for employees. Verify these certificates so you avoid major liability.
- How long have you constructed granny flats specifically?
Look for established teams specializing in auxiliary dwellings with hundreds of successful granny flat projects in their portfolio. They will understand nuances like zoning allowances and main house integration.
- Can we see images and plans from past builds?
Ask to see photos, drawings and even video walkthroughs of previous granny flats. This shows actual end results and helps you visualize concepts.
- What design-build options do you offer?
Some builders offer standard granny flat floor plans while others provide fully custom designs. Decide if you want to customize layouts and finishes or prioritize budget with pre-planned options.
- Do you handle all council approvals and permits?
Reputable providers walk you through the DA process, submit approval paperwork and obtain all necessary certificates and permits before construction starts.
- Can we speak with past client references?
Ask for contact details of previous granny flat clients so you can learn about their firsthand build experience, after-sales support and the quality of the final product.
- How long is the estimated start-to-finish timeline?
A 60-90 day turnaround isn’t uncommon for granny flats built from standard kits or plans. Get time frames in writing with defined milestones from contract signing to move-in.
- Can we make changes during the build?
Be clear upfront what change order flexibility you have on plans, layouts and products once construction begins. This avoids frustration over last minute adjustment limits or fees.
- Do you offer ongoing maintenance and warranty?
Ideally the builder should guarantee workmanship and materials for at least 5-10 years. Confirm details so there are no surprise charges for repairs or replacement parts.
- What are the total estimated project costs?
Get a detailed budget breakdown covering all costs including permits, site prep, connections, labour, materials and any finishing touches like decks or landscaping.
- What payment terms do you require?
Common terms are 5-10% deposit to start, progress payments per project milestones, then final payment only once you’ve moved in without issues.
- Can we customize granny flat features?
If you envision certain design elements like a kitchenette, laundry, standalone bathroom or certain glazing, doors, décor and accessories, confirm your builder can accommodate this.
Conclusion
By getting answers to these questions upfront, you can clearly compare builders on experience, services, timeframes, construction practices and costs. Checking references also gives you added assurance about working with any provider before signing a contract. Doing your due diligence ensures you get the right granny flat designed and built to suit your family’s needs, lifestyle and budget.
