Upcoming Changes to Granny Flat Rules in New Zealand
As New Zealand continues to address its housing shortage, discussions are underway to change the rules around granny flats. These potential changes could make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to add a minor dwelling, especially with transportable options like Goodwood’s 9.6m x 2.8m self-contained cabin.
This blog notes some potential changes to the rules, to find out about the current rules visit our previous blog here.
How the Rules Could Change
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Larger Units: Speculation suggests the government might increase the maximum allowable size for granny flats to 60 square metres. If these changes are enacted, units like Goodwood’s 7.2m x 2.8m cabin could become even more appealing for homeowners looking for affordable, larger, yet compact housing options. These smaller units can be joined together using a deck and veranda to stay within the rules. Keeping under the 3.1m wide means transport & accesibility is a breeze.
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Simplified Consent Process: The current consent process can be complex and time-consuming. New rules may streamline this, allowing homeowners to build granny flats faster and with fewer regulatory hurdles. This may also reduce the need for development contributions or financial contributions. Our inside sources have told us that this decision will be left up to each council.
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Lower Infrastructure Fees: Some of the infrastructure fees currently imposed might be reduced or eliminated, making it more affordable to build minor dwellings. This could create a spike in demand for well-designed, prefabricated solutions like our 9.6m x 2.8m cabin, which are already designed to meet building codes.
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Rental Flexibility: With changes in rental regulations, more homeowners may be allowed to rent out their granny flats, increasing the potential return on investment. Goodwood’s range of self-contained cabins provides the perfect solution for creating rental income without extensive renovations.
If you’re considering adding a minor dwelling to your property, now is a great time to explore the possibilities.
Visit Goodwood’s self-contained cabin page to see how our designs can fit your vision.
All of our cabins are built to code, all of our plumbed cabins are issued with CCC to be accepted by councils across NZ.
