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Adding a granny flat involves major construction, so challenges naturally come up. But as per experts like Granny Flat Solutions, careful planning and smart decisions can help you avoid many typical granny flat pitfalls and unnecessary hassles. Follow the tips below to know how to build a granny flat without any hurdles.
Choose the Right Location
Your granny flat location impacts the build difficulty significantly. Optimize by:
- Avoiding slopey, uneven, or densely wooded areas that require extra site prep. Look for flat, clear spots.
- Building close to the street for easier material deliveries, waste removal, and contractor access.
- Locating above garages or existing patios to simplify foundations and hookups.
- Checking zoning laws about minimum property line setbacks and distance from the main house. Don't require variances.
Design for Simplicity
Keep the granny flat design straightforward:- Opt for an attached flat sharing walls with the main house rather than detached.
- Stick to basic rectangular footprints rather than complex shapes and angles.
- Use a flat or gently sloped roof instead of complex gables, hips, or valleys.
- Minimize corners, dormers, bump-outs, and ornate trim that complicate siding.
Use Ready-Made Components
Constructing granny flats from scratch involves daunting projects like pouring concrete slabs, framing walls, and complex roofing. Save hassles by leveraging ready-made prefabricated components:- Order pre-built modular granny flat units shipped to your site mostly completed.
- Purchase a prefab accessory dwelling unit (ADU) kit with panels, trusses, and finishes for easy assembly.
- Use precast concrete foundation slabs needing just basic assembly on site.
Hire an Experienced Builder
An adept builder familiar with local permitting, codes, and best practices prevents headaches. Look for:- Extensive granny flat/ADU construction experience specifically.
- Deep understanding of the approval processes and regulations in your area.
- Relationships with zoning officials to facilitate speedy approvals.
- Capability to handle the entire project from permits to occupancy.
Get Neighbor Buy-in
Prevent challenges down the road by getting neighborhood support early:- Advise neighbors of plans to be transparent. Offer to address any concerns.
- Provide specifics on appearance, distance from their home, and who will occupy the flat.
- Share plans for minimizing disruptions from noise, traffic, dust, etc. during construction.
- Point out benefits like added neighborhood parking, improved local property values, housing for family, etc.
Reserve a Contingency Fund
Budget extra funds for contingencies so surprise expenses or delays don't derail progress. Ideal contingency is 15%+ of total cost for elements like:- Permitting delays requiring fee increases
- Foundation adaptations for buried obstacles
- Change orders for unforeseen repairs or upgrades
- Added costs of rush material orders if supply issues arise
