Questions to Ask Your Granny Flat Builder

As they continue to rise in popularity, more and more Granny Flat builders are entering the market. Knowing the right questions to ask when finding a builder for your project is critical for ensuring an end product you’re happy with that will last you for years, or even generations, to come.

An initial consultation with a prospective builder is your opportunity to ask any questions you may have. Be proactive with your approach and never feel like you’re taking up their time—a good builder should want to help.

Here’s a handy list of all the things you should ask a new Granny Flat builder to be confident they’re the best match for your project.

What is Your Experience with Building Granny Flats?

Experience matters, but it’s not just the number of years that makes someone a good builder. A builder’s ability to demonstrate successful past projects is critical.

Ask to view a portfolio of successful past examples and projects both similar and different to the job that you’re hiring them to work on. Look beyond the years and look for evidence of varied designs, innovative solutions and positive feedback from previous clients.

Are you Licensed and Insured?

Relevant licensing and insurance should be non-negotiable when choosing your builder. Being able to provide evidence of correct paperwork proves they are committed to completing the job safely and to a high standard.

Can You Provide a Detailed Quote?

Sadly, not all contractors have the best intentions when it comes to charging for construction work. Asking for a clear, detailed payment breakdown early on in the process will allow you to establish this straight away. A good builder will be happy to provide this information and sometimes may even do just that without being asked.

Here at Granny Flat Solutions, we offer a personalised and transparent service right from the very beginning. Contact us today to book a free site assessment & quote.

How Long Will the Project Take?

Lots of factors can influence a project timeline. From material selection to plumbing and electrical work and final finishes, lots of steps make up a successful build.

Ask your builder for a clear schedule of when they expect the different stages of the project to be complete. It’s also beneficial to ask your builder to remain transparent about any delays that may impact the predicted completion date. We all appreciate that unpredictable things can arise, but this honesty goes a long way.

What is Your Process for Handling Permits and Approvals?

Navigating local requirements for permits and approvals can be overwhelming. That’s why finding a builder you can trust is crucial.

This process will likely look slightly different for every builder. Still, regardless of individual approach, they should be able to understand local zoning rules, assist with necessary permit applications and provide careful guidance on any other requirements.

At Granny Flat Solutions, we’re a one-stop-shop and can handle any necessary approvals for you to take away that stress.

Can I See References or Speak With Past Clients?

At Granny Flat Solutions, we’re so proud of the response to our work, that we show it off wherever we can. Your builder should openly share references from past clients if they have nothing to hide.

We’d also suggest taking the time to do your own research. Check Google Reviews and other review sites to build a real picture of all the feedback a builder has received—both positive and negative.

What Materials and Options are Available?

The best builders offer a fully customisable approach to building your Granny Flat. You don’t want your new dwelling to look the same as every other on the block. It’s the unique design options and ability to choose custom features that make it an exciting process.

Ask about design choices, material options and quality, the availability of custom features and your other needs, such as accessibility adjustments.

How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues or Delays?

With so many moving parts, delays can happen. It’s how they’re dealt with that’s important. Establish clear lines of communication with your builder to ensure they will keep you in the loop about any delays.

Ask them for examples of issues from previous builds and how they dealt with them. Did they source new materials when the initial supplier failed them? Or maybe found a new contractor to help them when faced with time constraints? Asking these questions will help you build a true picture of their approach to issues.

What is Your Policy on Warranties and Post-Build Support?

Learning about the warranty policies of your builder is essential to ensure peace of mind after the build. For example, Granny Flat Solutions offers a six-year Statutory Structural Warranty.

We also honour a 90-day maintenance period after handover, where your Project Manager will attend to assess and organise any outstanding works needing rectification.

How do you Ensure the Build Stays on Budget?

At Granny Flat Solutions, we have over 40 years of experience managing budgets and ensuring builds stay within them. In fact, we build 200 Granny Flats a year. That means we know how important it is and how unexpected costs can cause unnecessary stress.

Be open with the builder about your budget and what you hope to achieve within it. They can provide realistic advice about the types of designs and materials available to you and keep you updated throughout the process should any changes to expected costs arise.

What is the Total Cost of Building a Granny Flat?

The cost of building a Granny Flat on your property can vary significantly but will typically range from $100,000 to $250,000.

The specific design choices you make will impact the final price, such as deciding between a single or two-storey layout, determining the number of bedrooms required, and selecting between a fully customised design or a more streamlined prefabricated kit home approach.

What Utilities Will be Included in the Build?

Granny Flats should be all-inclusive and ready to live in upon completion. Your builder should be able to provide a comprehensive list of what’s covered for you ahead of construction so you know exactly what to expect.

How Long Will the Construction Take?

Every build will be different but understanding a time estimate is crucial for your long-term planning. Be wary of any builder who promises a suspiciously fast turnaround. They may be guilty of skipping corners or rushing certain steps.

At Granny Flat Solutions, we generally allow about 8-12 weeks for design and approval, and then 3-4 months for construction.

What are the Design Options Available?

This is one of the most exciting parts of your build. Your layout will be one of the first design options you choose, followed by any additional features from adding a garage to colours, fixtures and finishes.

Your builder can also help you consider exterior touches such as the landscaping around your new Granny Flat.

At Granny Flat Solutions, we offer both pre-designed Granny Flats and fully customisable options—there’s something for every timeframe and budget.

Ready to Meet Your Granny Flat Builder?

From regulations to access and foundation to roofing, there’s a lot to consider when building a Granny Flat. That’s why choosing the best builder is so crucial.

Before signing any contract, take the time to ask plenty of questions, read reviews and testimonials from previous clients and get to know the team who are about to transform your outdoor space.

At Granny Flat Solutions, we’re here to help! Contact our friendly team of builders today for answers to all of your Granny Flat questions.