Frequently Ask Questions

Planning

The planning phase is crucial in ensuring a smooth and successful project, encompassing aspects like design, planning, and budgeting.

• Q1 · What are the requirements for building a granny flat on my block?

  Before embarking on your granny flat project, it's crucial to understand the regulations governing their construction.

  Under the new laws, a secondary building of up to 60sqm on a block of land measuring 300sqm or more can be built without the need for a planning permit. The Victorian government says this is the case even in a "heritage or neighbourhood character area" when specified requirements like height and colouring are met. This ruling applies as long as environmental or flooding overlays do not affect the lot.
  
  Anyone is allowed to live in the building, whether family, friends, or a renter.

• Q2 · How do l finance It?

  While granny flats offer a relatively low investment compared to other property options, many customers still prefer more flexible financing options.

  Granny Flat often requires the majority or entirety of payment upfront. However, we have partnered with finance teams in order to ensure more flexiblepayment terms can be made available. A consultation can be arranged to exploreyour finance options and to assist you in purchasing your granny flat.

• Q3 · Do you provide a free proposal?

  Our proposal includes a simple granny flat design plan and return forecast.

  Absolutely! Just leave us your contact information, address and any specific requirements you have, and we'll be happy to send you a free proposal.

• Q4 · What happens after I sign my proposal?

  Leave us your address and needs, and we'll send you a free proposal.

  Money Spaces' staff will contact you to schedule a time to measure your property. Then, our designers will create a design plan for you based on your budget and investment goals. We will then complete your detailed drawings, sign the construction contract, and move your project into the construction phase.

• Q5 · What is involved in site inspection?

  The site inspection is crucial in determining if your property is suitable for a granny flat.

  The site inspection is critical, because it helps us (and you) to identify any site hazards, construction issues, service connection issues or other planning constraints that may impact the pricing for your Granny Flat. When we provide you with a quote, we want to make sure that everything has been included so that you don't end up with any unforeseen costs later.

• Q6 · Do you offer Custom Design?

  While customizing your granny flat can add a personal touch and enhance its appeal, it's important that it will also increase the overall cost.

  Money Spaces has different packages to suit your budget and your needs. Our Package is a fast and cost-effective option for those who want a quality designed and built Granny Flat, but don't have the time to design a Granny Flat from scratch.
  
  In order to expedite construction efficiency and maximize ROI for landlords, our products currently do not offer personalized services. However, we do provide some customization options within each product.

Approval

Before you can start construction, it's crucial to obtain the necessary approvals from your local council.

• Q1 · Do all council areas in NSW/VIC allow Granny Flats?

  While recent government relaxations have made it easier to get granny flat approvals, there may still be some areas where they are not permitted.

  Small Second Homes - Planning is a VIC state wide policy, which covers all Council areas. So if your property meets all the requirements of the code, and isn't subject to specific environmental or flooding controls, then generally all councils in VIC have to approve a Granny Flat on your property.

• Q2 · Can I build to the boundary?

  To optimize space utilization, many clients inquire about building granny flats directly on the the boundary.

  Unfortunately not. Being a habitable dwelling, any structure will need to be a minimum of 1.0m from any property boundary.

• Q3 · Will Money Spaces do my approvals?

  Granny Flat still need to comply with building regulations and obtain a building permit.

  Absolutely. We are a one-stop-shop and can handle both CDC and DA Applications, and will act on your behalf to make your journey with us as smooth as possible. Let us take all the hard work away from you.

• Q4 · How long will it take to get my approvals?

  The wait time for approval significantly impacts the overall construction timeline for your granny flat.

  A CDC typically takes about 14 days to get approved, once your application has been lodged to the Private Certifying Authority.

Construction

Understanding the construction process is essential for a smooth and successful project.

• Q1 · How long does it take to build a Granny Flat?

  How long does it take to handover a granny flat from the design stage?

  We believe that if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail. So we don't like to rush things! This doesn't mean that we will take our time, but we generally allow about 8-12 weeks for design and approval, and then 3-4 months for construction.This is a comfortable time frame which allows us to properly prepare your drawings (with no errors) and build everything to the right standards.

• Q2 · Does Money Spaces provide insurances, warranties and guarantees?

  To optimize space utilization, many clients inquire about building granny flats directly on the the boundary.

  We include a 3-month maintenance period after handover with all our projects. Your Project Manager will attend to assess and organise any outstanding works needing rectification.We will also provide you with any manufacturers appliance warranties at hand over stage.You can also rest assured that you have a 3 year Statutory Structural Warranty also.

• Q3 · What if I have questions after Handover?

  Money Spaces: Delivering Unwavering Commitment to Quality Service

  Our staff are always happy to assist you post handover. If you are unsure about how something works, or if you think there may be some issues with your building, please feel free to call us, and we will assist you with any enquiries.