Turnkey Build

One builder handles everything — design, approval, construction and handover. Turnkey granny flat builds from $100,000 to $350,000.

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Published 6 April 20263 min readReviewed by GrannyFlatGuide editorial team

A turnkey granny flat build is a single-contract arrangement where one builder or company handles the entire project from design through to handover. As of Q1 2026, turnkey prices range from $100,000 to $350,000 depending on size, finish level and site complexity.

This is the most common way Australians build granny flats. You deal with one company, sign one contract, and receive a completed dwelling with an occupation certificate. The builder manages design, council approval, construction, trade coordination and final inspections.

The word turnkey means you receive the keys to a finished, liveable dwelling. In practice, what counts as turnkey varies between builders — some include landscaping and driveways, others do not. Understanding exactly what is and is not included in a turnkey quote is the single most important step in comparing builders.

What is included in a turnkey granny flat build

What is typically included in a turnkey quote

A genuine turnkey quote covers design and architectural plans, council approval (CDC or DA), concrete slab or foundations, structural frame and external cladding, roofing, internal fit-out (kitchen, bathroom, flooring, painting), plumbing and electrical rough-in and fit-off, and final certification including the occupation certificate.

Some builders also include standard site works (up to a specified site condition) and basic landscaping around the granny flat.

What is often excluded

Site clearing and excavation beyond the standard allowance. Retaining walls for sloping sites. Extended service connections — if your sewer, water or power connections are more than a specified distance from the build (often 10 to 15 metres). Driveway or pathway construction. Landscaping and fencing. Council contribution levies (Section 7.12 contributions in NSW). Demolition of existing structures.

These exclusions can add $15,000 to $50,000 to the project cost. Always ask builders for a list of included and excluded items before comparing quotes.

How to compare turnkey quotes

Do not compare on headline price alone. Two builders quoting $160,000 and $175,000 may deliver very different outcomes if one excludes site works and the other includes them.

Ask every builder for a line-item breakdown showing what is included. Check whether the price includes or excludes GST. Confirm the allowances for fixtures, fittings and finishes — a low-cost kitchen allowance means you pay the difference for anything better than the base specification.

Get at least three quotes from builders who have inspected your site. Phone quotes or online estimates without a site visit are not reliable.

Specialist granny flat company vs general builder

Specialist granny flat companies typically offer faster timelines (12 to 16 weeks build), streamlined council approval and established supply chains. They work from a library of proven designs that they have built repeatedly.

General builders offer more design flexibility and may be cheaper for simple builds, but timelines are often longer (16 to 24 weeks) and they may have less experience with the specific approval requirements for secondary dwellings. Council liaison may not be included.

Turnkey granny flat cost ranges

These ranges cover genuine turnkey builds including design, approval, construction and handover on standard flat sites. All figures as of Q1 2026.

ScenarioCost range (AUD, ex GST)Notes
Studio turnkey (under 36 sqm)$120,000$160,000Open-plan studio with kitchenette and bathroom. Fastest and most affordable turnkey option.
1-bedroom turnkey (36–45 sqm)$140,000$200,000Separate bedroom with living area. The most common turnkey build size.
2-bedroom turnkey (50–60 sqm)$160,000$250,000Two bedrooms with full kitchen and bathroom. Most popular for rental income.
Premium or complex site$220,000$350,000High-end finishes, sloping or restricted-access sites, or Eastern Sydney and inner-city Melbourne locations.

Ranges compiled from published turnkey pricing from specialist granny flat companies and verified builder quotes across NSW, VIC and QLD. Includes design, approval, construction and standard site works.

Last checked: 1 April 2026

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Turnkey builds at a glance

Cost range

$100,000 to $350,000 all-in. The range reflects the difference between a basic studio and a premium 2-bedroom with high-end finishes.

Build timeline

16 to 30 weeks from signed contract to handover. Includes 4 to 8 weeks for design and approval, then 12 to 22 weeks of construction.

Key advantage

Single point of responsibility. One contract, one builder, one warranty. You do not need to coordinate trades or manage council liaison yourself.

Best suited for

Buyers who want a hands-off experience, first-time builders who value certainty, and anyone who does not have construction management experience.

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