With recent changes to New Zealand building legislation, granny flats are set to become a much more common addition to residential properties.
Small standalone dwellings (under 70m²) can now be built without a building consent, provided they meet specific criteria and are designed and constructed by licensed professionals. This is expected to make it faster and more cost-effective to add extra living space, whether for family, rental income, or future flexibility. You can read more about the changes here: Granny flats building consent exemption becomes law
As with any build, the foundation system remains a key part of the project. Blade Piles are increasingly being used for granny flats across New Zealand, particularly where a timber subfloor is preferred over a traditional concrete slab.
A timber subfloor supported by Blade Piles keeps the structure more adaptable over time. Instead of committing to a permanent concrete foundation, piles are screwed into the ground with minimal disturbance, and can be removed if the structure is no longer required. This makes them well suited to backyard builds where future use of the site may change
While the new exemption removes the need for building consent in some cases, it does not remove the need for good design and quality construction. Foundations still need to be engineered to suit the site and comply with the New Zealand Building Code. Blade Pile projects are supported by site-specific engineering design and installed by certified contractors, ensuring consistent performance across a wide range of conditions.
As granny flats become more common, there is a clear shift toward foundation systems that support speed, flexibility, and minimal site impact. Blade Piles align closely with this approach, particularly when paired with timber floor construction, offering a practical solution for modern residential builds.
Explore our Projects to see how this approach is being used across a range of sites.
If you’re planning a granny flat, get in touch with the team to discuss how Blade Piles could work for your project.