Granny flats and secondary dwellings
Secondary dwellings — often called granny flats — are a common class 1 project on Greater Sydney lots. Many are assessed as complying development where the codes allow. Others sit behind a development consent and then need a construction certificate.
Typical certification path
Where the Low-Rise Housing Diversity Code or another complying development code applies, a CDC can combine planning and construction approval. Where a council DA has already been granted, a construction certificate is the usual next step before work starts.
Either way, the owner still appoints a principal certifier before building work begins, and an occupation certificate is required before the dwelling can be occupied.
What we assess
Exclusive Certifiers assesses class 1 and 10 secondary dwelling applications. Site constraints, setbacks, floor area, private open space and the completeness of the drawing pack all matter. An enquiry is not an eligibility finding.
Questions about granny flats and secondary dwellings
Can every granny flat be complying development?
No. Codes set numerical and locational rules. Flooding, bushfire, heritage, easements and the existing approval history can take a proposal off the CDC path.
Do I still need inspections after a CDC?
Yes. You appoint a principal certifier, complete critical-stage inspections, and obtain an occupation certificate before occupying the secondary dwelling.
Related services
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