GOODLIFE QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

A Little Clarity.
More Possibilities.

From choosing your space to planning your project, find helpful answers to the questions we hear most.

01

Choosing Your Space

Understand the building types and explore the spaces in person.

What is the difference between Granny Flats and Garden Rooms?

A granny flat is a Class 1a building designed as a dwelling. A garden room is a Class 10a building intended for uses such as a home office, creative studio, hobby room or backyard retreat — not permanent or bedroom accommodation. Talk to our team about the space you have in mind.

Can I see the buildings in person?

Yes. Visit a Goodlife Structures showroom to explore the spaces and talk with our team about your project. Check the showroom details before planning your visit. View showroom details →

How do I choose the right size for my space?

Start with how you plan to use the building and the furniture or equipment it needs to accommodate. Compare floor plans, allow room to move comfortably, and consider storage and access. Share your available space and priorities with our team to help narrow down the options.

Can a Garden Room be used as a home office or creative studio?

Yes. Our Garden Rooms offer a separate space for working from home, creative projects and hobbies. Think about natural light, your desk or equipment, storage and any power or internet needs. Discuss these with our team so you can explore a layout that suits the way you want to use it.

02

Planning & Approvals

What to check before you move ahead with your project.

Can you help with council approvals?

Yes. Our team can help you navigate the council approval process for your Goodlife project and understand the next steps. Requirements vary by property and location, so talk to us about your plans and the support you need.

Do I need a permit?

Granny flats require building approval, and planning or development approval may also be needed. Requirements for garden rooms vary with your location, building size and project. Check with your local council before proceeding, and talk to Goodlife about your plans.

Can I put a Granny Flat or Garden Room in my backyard?

It depends on your property and local requirements. Your council can advise on boundaries, setbacks, building size and any other restrictions that apply. Bring that information to our team so we can help you explore a suitable starting point.

What kind of foundations do I need?

Every building needs a level, stable foundation. A concrete slab or a bearer-and-joist foundation are two common approaches. The right base depends on your building and site, so confirm the requirements for your project before arranging any work.

What information should I gather before discussing my site?

Your property address, a few photos and approximate measurements are a useful starting point. Include the proposed building location, access from the street and any nearby trees, fences or existing structures. If you already have plans or advice from your council, share those with our team too.

When should I arrange site preparation?

Confirm your chosen building, foundation requirements and project arrangements before booking site work. Ask our team which details need to be settled first and who will be responsible for each task. Agreeing the sequence early can help avoid work needing to be changed later.

03

Building & Delivery

Find the right approach for your chosen building.

Do you offer a DIY service?

Yes. We offer DIY kit options for customers who want to assemble their own building, including our Garden Room range. Talk to our team about a suitable design and the skills and preparation involved. Our built-and-installed granny flats, such as the Kennedy, are a separate offering.

Can you build and install in rural areas?

Yes. We can build and install in rural areas through our modular products. Tell us your location and a little about your property so our team can discuss a suitable modular option, site access and delivery and installation arrangements.

Is the Kennedy a DIY kit?

No. The Kennedy is a steel-frame granny flat built and installed through Goodlife Structures. Our team works with you from initial planning through to construction and installation. Explore the Kennedy →

Can I build the Garden Room myself?

Garden Rooms are supplied as kits that can be assembled by customers with suitable skills and preparation. Talk to our team about the instructions, tools and build support for your chosen design before deciding. Some work may require qualified trades.

Do you deliver Garden Rooms Australia-wide?

Talk to our team about Australia-wide delivery options for your postcode. We can confirm the delivery quote, site access and unloading requirements for your chosen Garden Room.

What is the difference between an on-site build and a modular build?

An on-site build is constructed directly on your property. A modular build is constructed off site, transported to your property and craned into position. Goodlife offers both approaches; the right starting point depends on your location, chosen building and site access. Our team can discuss which approach suits your project.

What access information is useful when planning delivery?

Share photos and approximate measurements of your driveway, gates and the route to the proposed building location. Mention tight corners, slopes and overhead obstacles. Access and unloading arrangements depend on the building and delivery method, so confirm these with our team before delivery is booked.

04

Design & Next Steps

Explore customisation and start a conversation about your plans.

Can I customise your floor plans?

Customisation is available. Our existing design service is listed at a non-refundable $1,500, covering a design meeting, floor plan and elevation drawings, and one revision. Additional revisions are listed at $150 each; $750 is credited to your purchase if you proceed with the customised product. Please confirm the current fee and available changes with our team for your chosen design.

How do I get started?

Tell us about your property, location and how you would like to use the space. You do not need to have every detail worked out. Send an enquiry and our team can help you explore the next steps.

What should I check when comparing quotes?

Compare the scope as well as the price. Ask what is included for your chosen building and whether delivery, unloading, foundations, installation, approvals and service connections are included or need separate arrangements. Request clarification on any exclusions so you can plan the overall project budget.

What should I bring to a showroom visit?

Bring the names of any designs you like, your property location and any useful photos or measurements. A short list of priorities, such as room sizes, storage or intended use, will help guide the conversation. Contact our team before travelling to confirm which buildings are available to view.