How Much Does a 1 Bedroom Granny Flat Cost in Perth? Free Price Guide

If you’ve been toying with the idea of adding a 1-bedroom granny flat to your Perth property, you’re not alone. 

Granny flats have become increasingly popular as homeowners look for versatile ways to maximise their space, add value to their homes, or provide a private retreat for family members.

But before you dive into this exciting project, it’s crucial to understand the costs involved. After all, knowing how much you’ll be spending can make all the difference in planning effectively and avoiding nasty surprises.

In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of building a 1-bedroom granny flat in Perth. We’ll break down the key cost factors that influence the total price, give you a detailed cost breakdown, share some cost-saving tips, and guide you on how to choose the best service provider.

By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect financially when building your dream granny flat.

Let’s get right into it.

Size and Design of the Granny Flat

The larger and more complex the design, the more materials and labour are required, which in turn increases the overall cost.

• Square Metre Pricing: Typically, builders quote granny flats on a per-square-metre basis. A more spacious 1-bedroom flat will cost more due to the additional square footage. However, this isn’t a straightforward calculation, as the layout and structural elements also play a role.
• Custom vs. Standard Designs: Opting for a custom design tailored to your needs and tastes will naturally cost more than choosing a standard, pre-designed option. Custom designs often require additional planning and approvals, as well as bespoke materials and fixtures.

Materials and Finishes

From basic to premium, the range of options is vast, each with different price tags.

• Exterior and Interior Materials: The choice of exterior materials, like brick, weatherboard, or rendered finishes, can impact both aesthetics and cost. Similarly, interior finishes, such as flooring, cabinetry, and countertops, come in various price ranges.
• Sustainability Features: If you’re looking to incorporate sustainable or eco-friendly materials and features, such as solar panels or energy-efficient windows, expect to pay a bit more upfront. However, these can lead to savings on utility bills in the long run.

Site Preparation and Location

The site preparation and location of your property are critical in determining the overall cost of building a granny flat.

• Terrain and Accessibility: A flat, easily accessible site is less costly to prepare compared to a sloping block or a site with difficult access. If your property has challenging terrain, the costs for excavation, retaining walls, and other preparatory work can add up quickly.
• Soil Quality: The soil quality on your site also affects construction costs. Poor soil conditions might require additional foundation work, which can increase the total cost.

Labour Costs

The amount you spend on labour depends largely on the complexity of the build and the rates in your area.

• Skilled Labour vs. General Labour: Hiring highly skilled tradespeople for specialised tasks like plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry will cost more than using general labourers. However, this investment often pays off in quality and durability.
• Timeframe: The longer the project takes, the higher the labour costs. If you’re on a tight schedule, be prepared for potential overtime costs or higher rates to meet your deadlines.

Council Fees and Approvals

Before you can start building your granny flat, you’ll need to navigate the maze of council approvals and fees.

• Building Permits: In Perth, securing the necessary building permits can take time and money. Council application fees, inspection fees, and other charges can add up, especially if additional reports or modifications are required.
• Zoning Requirements: Zoning regulations and restrictions in your area may influence the cost, particularly if there are limitations on the size or design of the portable buildings that necessitate extra planning or revisions.

Utilities and Connections

The cost of connecting utilities such as water, electricity, and sewage to your new granny flat is often overlooked but can be substantial.

• Proximity to Existing Services: The closer your portable building is to existing utility services, the cheaper it will be to connect. If your site is far from these services, additional trenching and installation costs will be necessary.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: In some cases, you may need to upgrade existing infrastructure to accommodate your granny flat, which can be an additional expense.

Base Construction Costs

The base construction costs cover the essential components of building your granny flat, including the foundation, structure, and roofing. These costs can vary significantly depending on the materials and design you choose.

The table above shows the typical ranges you can expect to pay for the base construction elements. The costs for premium options are higher due to the use of higher-quality materials or more complex designs.

Interior Finishes

Interior finishes include all the elements that make your portable building comfortable and liveable. This category covers flooring, cabinetry, and bathroom fixtures, which can range from basic to luxurious.

Upgrading to luxury finishes can nearly double the cost but significantly enhance the overall aesthetic and comfort of your granny flat.

Site Preparation and Landscaping

Site preparation is an essential part of the building process, especially if your property has challenging terrain or requires additional work to make it build-ready.

Depending on your site’s condition, these costs can vary widely. Landscaping costs can also be adjusted based on the complexity and size of the area you want to beautify.

Utilities and Connections

Connecting utilities like water, electricity, and sewage is a crucial step in ensuring your portable building is functional.

These costs can fluctuate depending on the distance from existing services and the type of connections required.

Council Fees and Approvals

Getting the necessary approvals and permits is a step that can’t be overlooked. These costs ensure your portable building complies with local regulations.

Each council in Perth may have slightly different fees, so it’s essential to check with your local authority for accurate costs.

Additional Costs and Extras

Sometimes, additional costs are incurred due to unforeseen circumstances or optional upgrades.

Planning for potential extras can help you stay on budget and avoid financial stress down the line.

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Opt for a Standard Design

Choosing a standard or pre-designed layout is one of the easiest ways to save on your project. Custom designs, while unique, often require more time for planning and approvals, as well as bespoke materials that can drive up costs.

By opting for a standard design, you can:

• Reduce Planning and Approval Time: Standard designs usually get approved more quickly by councils since they meet common regulations and requirements.
• Lower Material Costs: Builders often have existing relationships with suppliers for standard designs, which can result in lower material costs.

Hire Experienced and Reliable Contractors

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest quote, hiring inexperienced contractors can end up costing you more in the long run due to poor workmanship and delays. Instead:

• Do Your Research: Look for contractors with positive reviews and proven experience in building granny flats.
• Get Detailed Quotes: Ensure that all quotes are detailed and include a breakdown of costs, so you know exactly what you’re paying for. This can help avoid unexpected expenses.

Streamline the Build with Efficient Design Choices

The design choices you make can significantly impact both the initial cost and ongoing expenses of your granny flat. Consider the following:

• Minimise Structural Complexity: Simple, rectangular designs are often more cost-effective to build compared to complex shapes that require additional labour and materials.
• Choose Energy-Efficient Features: Investing in energy-efficient windows, insulation, and appliances can reduce long-term utility costs and add value to your property.

Avoid Scope Creep

One of the most common reasons projects go over budget is scope creep, where additional features and changes are added throughout the build process. To prevent this:

• Stick to Your Plan: Once you’ve finalised your design and budget, avoid making changes unless absolutely necessary.
• Set a Contingency Budget: Allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected costs, but make sure it’s not an excuse to add extras.

Look for Experience and Expertise

When selecting a service provider, their experience and expertise in building granny flats should be top of your list. A company with a solid track record will have a portfolio of completed projects and happy clients to vouch for their quality of work.

• Check Previous Projects: Ask to see examples of previous 1-bedroom granny flats they have built. This can give you a good sense of their style and capabilities.
• Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look up customer reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the company’s reputation. Positive feedback is a good indicator that they deliver on their promises.

Assess Their Licensing and Insurance

It’s essential to ensure that the company you choose is properly licensed and insured. This not only protects you from liability but also ensures that the work is done to a professional standard.

• Verify Licensing: Check that the provider holds the necessary licences to operate in Perth. This typically includes a building licence, which is a requirement for any construction work.
• Confirm Insurance Coverage: Make sure the company has adequate insurance, including public liability insurance and worker’s compensation. This protects you in the event of any accidents or damage during the construction process.

Evaluate Their Communication and Transparency

Good communication is key to a successful building project. You want a provider who is open, honest, and easy to communicate with throughout the entire process.

• Get Detailed Quotes: A reputable company will provide a detailed quote that outlines all the costs associated with your portable build. This transparency helps you avoid unexpected expenses and ensures you understand what you’re paying for.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the process, timelines, and any potential challenges. A good service provider will be happy to explain everything in detail and address any concerns you might have.

Compare Multiple Quotes

It’s always a good idea to get quotes from several different providers before making your decision. This not only gives you a better idea of the market rate but also helps you assess the value each company offers.

• Seek Multiple Quotes: Reach out to a few reputable companies, including Portable Buildings WA, to get a comprehensive understanding of what’s available.
• Consider Value, Not Just Price: While it might be tempting to go with the lowest quote, remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Consider the overall value, including the company’s experience, the quality of materials used, and their reputation.

LEARN MORE: How to Choose the Best Granny Flat Builder in Perth

• Size and Design: The larger and more customised your granny flat, the higher the cost. Opting for standard designs can help reduce expenses.
• Materials and Finishes: Choosing high-quality or sustainable materials can increase costs but may also offer long-term savings and durability.
• Site Preparation and Location: The condition and accessibility of your site can significantly affect the total cost. Planning ahead can prevent unexpected expenses.
• Labour Costs: Skilled labour is essential for quality construction, but comparing quotes and choosing experienced contractors can help manage costs.
• Council Fees and Approvals: Be prepared for the necessary permits and fees to ensure your build complies with local regulations.
• Utilities and Connections: Don’t overlook the costs of connecting essential services like water, electricity, and sewage.

Summary of Pricing Ranges:

• Base Construction Costs: Typically range from $33,000 to $105,000 depending on size and design complexity.
• Interior Finishes: Can range from $16,000 to $68,000 based on the quality and style chosen.
• Site Preparation and Utilities: Varies widely but generally falls between $12,000 and $33,000.
• Council Fees and Additional Costs: Usually between $3,000 and $9,000, depending on your local council and specific build requirements.

At Portable Buildings WA, we’re proud to be leaders in the industry. With years of experience and a strong reputation for excellence, we understand what it takes to deliver top-quality builds without breaking the bank.

Our team is committed to avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring every project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Whether you’re looking to add a comfortable space for family members, create a private retreat, or increase your property’s value, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact a member of our friendly team today at 08 9393 4855 or claim your fast and FREE quote online now.