Knowing what kind of specific codes are being enforced on your property is another factor that will greatly affect what kind of structure you can build. Every city has its own unique set of building codes that dictate what and how you can build.
For example, in Austin, TX, lots can be subdivided into two so that an accessory structure can now be treated as a single residence. However, in other cities, granny flats are altogether illegal by code.
Most cities make all information regarding their building code available to the public through their website. In cities without an extensive online system, calling the Building or Plan Review Department can provide the necessary insights into your city’s building code.
Additionally, certain neighborhoods and subdivisions will have their own set of rules and guidelines that affect your property. If your neighborhood has a design board or association it can be helpful to reach out to them to find out what regulations might be affecting your property through them.
If this seems a little overwhelming, we get it. Our experts are available for a free consultation to get you started.
Building a granny flat can be a very fun and rewarding process!
Maxable has a free Granny Flat Resource Packet to get you started, that covers how to evaluate costs as well as provides some fantastic examples of granny flats being designed all over the country. The lookbook provides anyone interested in granny flats numerous ideas for their project.
Follow Maxable on Instagram and Pinterest for more inspiration on designing your next small space.
When considering adding a granny flat to your property it helps to know what capacity your water meter and electric meter can handle. Your flat will be adding additional bathrooms and electrical fixtures to your property and some existing meters are not set up to handle additional capacity.
Reaching out to your city as well as a licensed utilities engineer to obtain information about your existing utilities and what you will need in order to add a second structure can help clear this often confusing subject up.
Having a survey can provide a detailed insight into what geographic and municipal factors you might have to deal with when considering building a granny flat. Topography, property and setback lines, stormwater inlets, power lines, etc; all these things that drastically affect what can be built on your land can be found on a detailed survey.
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