Victoria’s housing landscape is evolving, and recent changes to legislation mean granny flats, tiny houses or modular homes are emerging as a popular way to increase a property’s value. Also known as secondary dwellings, these self-contained living spaces offer versatility and opportunity.
Understanding the legislation surrounding second dwellings is crucial for homeowners. The recent changes introduced by the State Government, effective from last December, aim to simplify the process of building small second homes. Under the new rules, smaller second homes of less than 60 square metres may not require a planning permit on properties larger than 300 square metres.
Under Clause 73.03 of the Victoria Planning Provisions, a small second dwelling is defined as a self-contained residence with a gross floor area of 60 square metres or less, equipped with essential amenities such as a kitchen sink, food preparation area, a bath or shower, and a toilet and wash basin.
Your property will likely be suitable for a second dwelling if:
- Your total block size, including the land your current dwelling is on, is more than 300 square metres
- There is pedestrian access to the proposed unit. This can be directly from the street or along a path down either side of the current dwelling on the block
- The designated area is not over a major easement
- There is a main dwelling on the block.
Amendment VC253 brings several highlights. First, it introduces a simplified approval process, potentially exempting small second dwellings from planning permits or making them eligible for the streamlined VicSmart permit process, facilitating quicker development. Second, there’s a notable emphasis on sustainability, requiring new dwellings to meet energy efficiency and environmental standards.
While these reforms offer promising opportunities, it’s vital to ensure compliance with building regulations and codes. The Building Act 1993 and Building Regulations 2018 outline the requirements for building second dwellings in Victoria, including permits and construction standards. Second dwellings must be self-contained and meet specific criteria to be classified as a dependent person’s unit, occupied by a person dependent on those in the main home.
It is vital to consider expert advice when installing a second dwelling or modular home on your property. In addition to compliance, a house that is aesthetically pleasing and built for comfortable, stylish and functional living is of course ideal. Find an expert who can assist in guiding you through the entire process, from initial query, viability assessment and consultation through to manufacturing, installation and connection to essential services.
The process can be much faster and more streamlined than traditional builds and will ideally result in a stylish and functional home for your family, staff, to rent for short or long stays or even use yourself as a home office or studio.
Overall, second dwellings present a range of benefits, from additional living space to increased rental income. By staying informed about the regulatory changes and working with a reputable builder, homeowners can maximise the potential of a second dwelling as a valuable addition to their properties. As Victoria’s housing landscape continues to evolve, second dwellings offer a flexible and sustainable solution for meeting diverse housing needs.
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