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LivingGranny Flat
Granny Flat / Studio
A self-contained secondary dwelling — perfect for extended family or rental income.
Reality Check
- Secondary dwelling rules vary by council — size, height and setback limits apply.
- Site access for construction vehicles can be tight on smaller blocks.
- Separate services connections (water, power, sewer) may be required.
- Privacy and overlooking of neighbours needs thought.
- Parking and driveway access may be assessed as part of approval.
Good fit if...
- You have extended family who need a self-contained space.
- You want to generate rental income.
- Your block is large enough and has rear access.
- You're planning for multi-generational living.
Maybe not a fit if...
- Your block is too small for a secondary dwelling under council rules.
- There's no rear access for construction.
- Your council restricts rental use and you wanted the income.
- You don't have the budget for separate services connections.
Budget Blind Spots
- Separate services connections (water, power, sewer)
- Site access and demolition
- Driveway and parking works
- Council approval fees
- Retaining works if on a slope
What to Discuss at Your Consultation
- What is the main problem we're trying to solve?
- Is the priority budget, space, resale, lifestyle, or rental income?
- Are there known site constraints (slope, access, easements)?
- What is your ideal timeline?
- What must stay vs what can change?
- Who will use it — family, tenants, or a home office?
- Does your council allow rental use?
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Related guides
Budgeting
Setting a Realistic Renovation Budget
Understanding renovation costs in South East Queensland and how to budget for your project.
Read guideApprovals
DA vs CDC: What's the Difference?
Understanding the different types of development approval in Queensland and which one applies to you.
Read guideApprovals
Understanding the DA Process in Queensland
What a Development Application is, when you need one, and how the process works from lodgement to approval.
Read guideReady to take the next step?
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