What is Granny Flat? Cons & Pros of a Granny Flat

A granny flat is a self-contained living area designed for one or two people, typically situated on the grounds of a single-family home. It can either be a detached unit or an extension of the main dwelling. Often referred to as a granny flat, this accessory dwelling unit is commonly used to house aging parents or other family members.

Many granny flats are considered tiny houses, and the growing interest in tiny house living has been particularly beneficial for older parents seeking this type of accommodation.

Nannies or young adult family members can also reside in granny flats or tiny homes. They are sometimes used as rental units, although zoning laws and deed restrictions may prohibit renting.

Realtors and builders often favor multigenerational housing and granny flats due to their increased market appeal, making them a valuable selling point for properties.

Facts

The typical tiny home ranges from 100 to 400 square feet in size, although they can be as compact as 80 square feet or as spacious as 750 square feet.

Facilities

Some granny flats are designed as compact versions of full-sized homes, featuring complete kitchens. In other cases, the kitchen amenities are more limited, such as a mini-fridge and microwave, which present fewer safety concerns compared to fully equipped kitchens.

Cons of a Granny Flat

The granny flat industry encounters several obstacles, including municipal statutes, zoning laws, building restrictions, neighborhood covenants, and other regulations that hinder its expansion. Many homeowners may choose to ignore or bypass these rules, especially when converting existing structures like garages, but this approach is less feasible for new constructions.

Building a new accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can be costly and complicated, involving challenges such as securing financing, connecting utilities, and providing off-street parking. Although the rise of prefabricated or modular buildings has simplified the process for some homeowners, these types of structures may still be restricted in certain areas.

Pros of a Granny Flat

In addition to offering extra living space, a granny flat provides several other benefits. It enhances security by having another tenant on the property. Additionally, it allows for the sharing of transportation, amenities, childcare responsibilities, and property maintenance costs and tasks.