Building a Granny Flat? Don’t Overlook These Essential Electrical Considerations

Grini Gunayan
Sep 4
4 min read

Are you planning to have a granny flat here in Sunshine Coast? Never miss the important electrical considerations that you should keep in mind starting from upgrading your switchboard up to your power points and data cables. In Axon Electrical, we give you expert advice to ensure your investment is future proofed.

Why Electrical Planning Is Key to a Successful Granny Flat

Considering the rise of multi-generational households and the growing demand of rental properties here in Sunshine Coast, having a granny flat has become a smart solution. As the builders prioritize the design & layout, the important aspect of the electrical plan can be often overlooked which result in costly errors.

Regardless of if you’re building a granny flat for your family, guests, or tenants, it should be a safe space, efficient and future ready. Axon Electrical is here to plan and wire your secondary dwellings here in Sunshine Coast in a precise manner.

Check below the 7 most essential electrical considerations for you to begin:

1. Separate Electrical Meter: Is it Necessary?

It is recommended to install a separate electricity meter if:

There is a plan to rent out the granny flat
You intend to track independently the energy usage
You aim to boost the value of your property and to be compliant

With a separate meter, your tenants will be able to manage their own bills and will be flexible to use in the future. The energy provider may need approval, and it may require upgrading your main switchboard for smooth accommodation. It is important to be aware and be ready for these things to avoid any inconvenience.

2. Is Your Existing Switchboard Up to the Task?

A lot of homes in the Sunshine Coast have outdated switchboards that cannot accommodate safely for additional appliances or circuits.

These could be what your home needs:

Upgrading your switchboard

Have a safety switches (RCDs) installed

Maintain a surge protection for appliances

Comply fully with AS/NZS 3000 standards

At Axon Electrical, we’ll assess your existing system and ensure it’s safe, legal, and ready for the extra load.

3. Effective Lighting for Small Spaces

Consider smart lighting in your granny flats as it brings more comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. Our recommendations would be:

LED downlights for low heat and energy efficient

Task lighting suitable for kitchens and bathrooms

Dimmers in living areas or bedrooms

Sensor lights for the walkways

Having natural light is good, but you cannot rely on it always especially for elderly occupants or tenants.

4. Don’t Skimp on Power Points & USB Outlets

Don't underestimate the devices that people are using so make sure that your granny flat is future proof by considering having:

Double power points in each room

USB outlets for gadgets such as phones & tablets

TV power points placed high for wall mounting

Outlets that will be enough for kitchen appliances and heaters

Never forget the power points of your space since it is one of the top post-build regrets. Let's plan this ahead as we give you our best advice.

5. Stable Internet & Data Connections

Usually, the Wi-Fi signal is low or worse, doesn't reach enough through the walls of the granny flat. Consider these to have a reliable internet connection:

Have a dedicated Ethernet cable

Install a Wi-Fi access point for a strong connection

If you plan to rent out the granny flat, having a separate NBN service is recommended.

Axon Electrical will work with your builder or NBN provider to achieve availability of a reliable internet connection.

6. Efficient Heating, Cooling & Ventilation

Always prioritize the comfort of your space in the long run, so consider having these:

Split system air conditioner - Offers both heating and cooling.

Ceiling fans - For better airflow and energy efficiency

Exhaust fans - Placed in bathrooms and kitchens

Smart thermostat options for energy savings

Plan ahead an energy-efficient electrical system which contributes to lower power bills in the long term.

7. Future proofing: Solar, Batteries & EV Chargers

To be future ready, pre-wiring would be a great help later as you decide to upgrade:

Conduits for solar panel systems

Space in the switchboard for battery storage

Pre-wiring for electric vehicle (EV) chargers

Your granny flat is a valuable long-term asset. So better to plan ahead to ensure smooth transition of these electrical upgrades.

Ready to Power Your Granny Flat Properly?

At Axon Electrical, we provide granny flat electrical design, installation, and upgrades throughout the Sunshine Coast. From initial consultation to final inspection, Axon Electrical is committed to delivering exceptional quality and customer satisfaction. We are dedicated to providing safe, efficient, and tailored electrical solutions for every granny flat project on the Sunshine Coast.

Book a Free Electrical Consultation

Let’s talk about your dream project!

We want to be part of your early planning stages or even if you are starting to build now, we are to help you make smart and safe choices.

📩 Email us to get a free quote - info@axonelec.com.au