Everythingyou need to know about Blue Mountains Granny Flats. Read this Q&A with Kate Cubitt, Managing Director of Cubitt’s Granny Flats and Home Extensions who has a special place in her heart - with loads of Cubitt's family living in the region. Gain insights into the definition, regulations, and considerations when building Granny Flats amidst the natural beauty of this region. Whether you're looking to house family, create rental income, or expand your living space, we shed light on the key aspects of constructing Granny Flats in the Blue Mountains.
What is a Granny Flat, and how is it defined in the context of building regulations in the NSW Blue Mountains?
A Granny Flat, also known as a secondary dwelling, is a self-contained living unit that is built on the same property as an existing residential dwelling. In the NSW Blue Mountains, a Granny Flat is defined as a detached or attached structure with separate living facilities, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. There are now many many uses for Granny Flats, including for housing family, short term rentals, and extra space at home. Council and those who may live in one now expect a high quality, timeless construction.
Are there any specific size limitations for building a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains?
In NSW, the maximum size of a secondary dwelling, is 60sqm. Generally, Granny Flats range from 40m2 to 60m2 and can accommodate 1-3 bedrooms and an open living space. Two-bedroom Granny Flats at 60m2 are typically the most popular Granny Flats for those looking to rent or house family.
Are there any restrictions on where a Granny Flat can be located on the property?
Yes, there are certain restrictions on the location of a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains. The Granny Flat should be located within the same property boundaries as the primary dwelling and should comply with setback requirements, which may vary depending on the specific zoning regulations of the area. Adhering to guidance provided by council regulation and state planning may allow a faster council approval process, however it is possible to build outside of this guidance with a development application.
What are the approval processes involved in building a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains?
To build a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains, you need to obtain approval. Approval may come in the form of a complying development certificate (CDC) or a development application approval (DA). CDC is a combined planning and construction approval for development that meets pre-determined standards and regulations. A DA involves submitting a development application, which includes plans, specifications, and other necessary documents. The council will assess the application based on various factors, including compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental considerations. It’s always helpful to work with a builder who can help you understand the difference in terms of timelines and costs, for your property.
Are there any additional requirements or considerations for building a Granny Flat in a bushfire-prone area like the Blue Mountains?
Yes, if your property is located in a bushfire-prone area, there are additional requirements to ensure the safety of the Granny Flat and it’s occupants. These may include complying with more specific building standards, using fire-resistant materials, providing adequate access and egress routes, and implementing appropriate landscaping and vegetation management strategies. BAL ratings are the classification system for bushfire attack levels in Australia, indicating the predicted radiant heat a construction can withstand. Compliance with BAL ratings, governed by the Rural Fire Service, is necessary for building materials and systems, with higher BAL levels requiring higher fire resistance and generally the RFS will not allow additional dwellings in areas rated over BAL 29. You can consult with an accredited bushfire consultant to better understand your options to reduce a properties BAL rating, or potentially move dwellings away from high flame zones and give more options to extend or add secondary dwellings.
Can I rent out a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains?
Yes, absolutely you can rent out a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains. Property owners are using Granny Flats for both short and long term rentals ensuring their assets are working for them. A Granny Flat offers property owners a level of flexibility, like no other build, with the ability to rent it out and earn income, house family young and old – and have the usage flex over time
What are the costs involved in building a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains?
The costs of building a Granny Flat in the NSW Blue Mountains can vary depending on factors such as the size, design, materials used, and specific site conditions and whether you are building completely custom or using a builders’ standard design. A good place to start browsing is www.cubitts.com.au where there are over 35 standard designs to choose from and loads of façade options. Always remember to check inclusions and make sure you get a Granny Flat that is ready to . It is advisable to consult with builders, architects, or other professionals to get accurate cost estimates based on your specific requirements.
Are there any specific design guidelines or architectural considerations for Granny Flats in the NSW Blue Mountains?
While there are no specific design guidelines imposed by the NSW Blue Mountains local council, particularly under DA approval, it is advisable to consider the local architectural character and the impact of the Granny Flat on the surrounding environment. Design elements such as roof pitch, materials, and colour schemes that complement the natural surroundings and existing dwellings in the area can be taken into account for an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Cubitt’s have a Blue Mountains Inspired 2-bedroom Granny Flat on display in their showroom at 152 Russell Street Emu Plains.
Kate Cubitt is Managing Director of Cubitt’s Granny Flats and Home Extensions and second-generation family builder. Cubitt’s offer dozens of stunning modern designs to create smart floor
Your Passively Designed Home Awaits
Discover the future of home construction with Cubitts! We're already building passively designed energy-efficient homes that save on your energy costs and could offer lesser impact on the environment. Secure your NCC compliant, 7-star energy-efficient dream home with Cubitt's
Need Some Expert Help?
Knowledge is non-negotiable. Our Design Consultant will measure out your site and help you fully understand the possibilities for your block, and be able to discuss in detail your options for a CDC or Development Application. When you’re planning to build, you want assurance that your site is suitable, and that you are not going to be impacted mid-build by unforeseen or surprise costs. We provide a thorough, free, upfront feasibility study for your Granny Flat which gives you an assured green light to build.
Free On-Site Assessment at Your Property
Interested in finding out how to make a positive investment from a Cubitt's Granny Flat or Home Extension? Get in touch for a no-obligation site inspection today.
We require your name, email and phone number to get back to you - and the more you can tell us about your build project, the more effectively our local teams can help.
Or call:
VIEW MORE OF OUR
Recent Blogs
Building Your Accommodation Business from Scratch in Rural NSW: A Comprehensive Guide
Whether you’re envisioning a cosy bed and breakfast or a cluster of serviced apartments, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you turn your dream of building an accommodation business into a prosperous reality.
What the Inland Code Means for Your Rural NSW Granny Flat Project
Are you considering adding a Granny Flat to your property in rural or regional New South Wales? The Inland Code does not permit complying development for the erection of secondary dwellings, commonly known as granny flats. This means that for the 69 Local Government Areas (LGAs) falling under the Inland Code, obtaining approval for a Granny Flat requires a Development Application (DA).
Unlocking Affordable Housing: Cubitt’s Calls on Premier Minns to Take a Cue from QLD
Cubitt’s Granny Flats advocates for affordable housing solutions, drawing inspiration from Queensland’s grant incentives for smaller builds.
ACT Land Zone RZ1 – You Can Now Build a Dual Occupancy up to 120m and Subdivide Your Block
ACT Canberra residential zone 1 (RZ1) blocks measuring 800 square meters or more are now eligible for the construction of two homes. Here is a quick FAQ on some elements of this change to help you start planning your ACT Dual Occupancy
End of Year Sale! $10k Cashback Offer When You Sign in 2023
To set up our schedule for 2024 we are offering an amazing $10k off your tender price while it’s still valid.
Top 50 NSW Suburbs With Granny Flat Potential
There could be a million residential properties across the nation with the potential to accommodate a Granny Flat. Is your suburb on the top 50 list?
