Room for family. Space for independence.
Make more of the land you already own. A secondary dwelling can create space for parents, adult children or tenants while keeping your existing home.
At Urban Cribs, we design modular homes with thoughtful layouts and flexible finishes to suit your property and the way you live.
What is a secondary dwelling?
A secondary dwelling, often called a granny flat, is an additional home on the same lot, subordinate to the main house. It can be attached or detached, with its own kitchen, bathroom, living and sleeping areas.
It offers a practical way to keep family close while giving each household independence and privacy.
Can I add a second home to my property?
Suitability depends on more than available backyard space. Before choosing a floor plan, consider:
- Block layout: boundaries, setbacks, site coverage and parking.
- Delivery access: transport routes, crane positioning, trees and powerlines.
- Site conditions: slope, drainage, soil and easements.
- Services: water, sewer and electricity connections.
- Council requirements: zoning and relevant planning overlays.
An early site review can help identify suitable designs and potential costs.
Do I need council approval?
Secondary dwelling requirements vary across Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay, Redland and other SEQ councils.
Some compliant proposals may not need a planning application, but applicable building and plumbing approvals are still required. Confirm the requirements for your address before committing to a design.
Why choose a modular secondary home?
Much of a modular home is constructed off site before delivery and installation. This can reduce construction activity in your backyard, with foundations, service connections and finishing works completed on site.
Thoughtful window placement, landscaping and separate outdoor areas can help both homes enjoy privacy. Inside, practical storage, natural light and an efficient layout make a smaller home feel comfortable.
What should I budget for?
Consider the complete project cost: the home, approvals, engineering, foundations, transport, crane installation, services and site works. Allow for decks, pathways, fencing and landscaping where needed.
A site-specific estimate will give you a clearer picture than a supply price alone.
Can I rent out a secondary dwelling?
Yes. Queensland allows secondary dwellings to be rented to people outside the main household, provided the home has the relevant approvals and meets building, safety and tenancy requirements.
Your land. More possibilities.
Thinking about a modular secondary dwelling in South East Queensland? Urban Cribs can take an initial look at your property online and help you explore your options.
Explore our floor plans or send us your suburb and property details to get started.
Planning requirements vary and can change. Confirm current requirements with your council and building certifier.
Helpful Brisbane planning resources
Considering a secondary dwelling on your Brisbane property? These Brisbane City Council resources can help you get started:
- Check approval requirements — understand the planning and building approvals that may apply to your proposed home.
- Explore your property’s zoning and planning requirements — use Brisbane City Plan online to review the requirements for your address.
- Check your property’s flood information — access a FloodWise Property Report to help inform your design and site planning.
Ready to Find the Right Floor Plan?
Explore Urban Cribs’ range of modern homes built using MMC, or speak with our team about a site-specific solution tailored to your land and lifestyle.
