Backyard Pods

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long does it take?

Time from first contact to completion for the Pod is usually 2 months, while for our larger models it will take longer.

Can I customise the design?

Absolutely. All our designs can be tailored, or we can create something entirely unique to suit your site, aesthetic, and lifestyle needs.

What sizes are available?

The Pod is 10m2 but we also offer a range of 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom luxury granny flats as both standard models and custom designs.

Are these suitable for renting out?

Yes and no. The Pod - due to its size and regulatory classification - is not suitable for renting out. However, all our other Models are suitable.

Do modular granny flats look boxy or generic?

Not with us. Our modular designs are architect-led, featuring high-end materials, thoughtful layouts, and natural light - just like our traditional builds.

Is a kit-of-parts cheaper than modular?

Not always. Kit systems save on transport and crane hire, but costs depend on site complexity, finishes, and local labour availability.

Which method gets approved fastest?

In Victoria, the Pod does not need council approval nor a building permit due to its size. For our other Models, all construction methods follow the same council planning process, though modular and kit builds can often be installed quicker once approvals are in place.

Do you handle council approvals?

Yes – we provide a start-to-finish service including site assessment, planning, approvals, and construction.

What are the Victorian planning rules for granny flats?

In Victoria, the Pod does not need council approval nor a building permit due to its size. For larger granny flats (1- and 2-bedrooms), although planning permits are no longer required for most small second homes as of December 2023, you will still need a building permit to ensure compliance with safety and building standards.

Which construction method do you use?

The Pod is prefabricated in our Melbourne factory, transported to your site and installed in 1-3 days. For our other Models, we don’t push one system over another - we tailor the solution to your property & budget. So, it could be a prefabricated granny flat for fast suburban installation, a kit build for urban infill or difficult to access locations, or a bespoke onsite granny flat.

Are PP Mini Homes backyard pods built to Australian building standards?

Yes - all pods comply with NCC, BCA and relevant Australian Standards, and are built under OH&S requirements with builder’s warranty insurance.

What type of foundations and subfloor do you use?

We use engineered foundations (such as concrete piers with steel stumps) supporting a galvanised steel base and structural sheet flooring for a strong, level platform.

How well insulated is the Pod?

The floor, external walls and roof are all insulated to improve comfort and energy efficiency, so the Pod feels like a small home rather than a shed.

What kind of windows and doors are included?

You get an aluminium glazed sliding door plus an operable window positioned to suit your outlook.

What are the internal wall, ceiling and floor finishes like?

Natural cork to the floor, ceiling and one feature wall, two walls clad in the same natural timber as the deck.

What electrical inclusions come as standard?

A base package includes internal double power points, recessed LED downlights and external lights, with scope to add or upgrade as needed.

How is the Pod powered

The Pod can be connected to the mains power, or can be self sufficient by adding solar panels on its roof and a battery to the rear.

What structure and roof system do you use?

We use engineered timber framing with a high-quality metal roof, gutters and flashings for a durable, weather-tight shell.

What cladding options are available?

Our palette focuses on Colorbond metal cladding, Barestone-style fibre-cement panels and other fibre-cement systems, often combined with solid natural timber walls.

Is decking included and what is it made from?

Where included, decks are built on a steel or treated timber subfloor and finished in solid natural timber, often wrapping onto adjacent walls or soffits.

Where can I see the full specifications and floor plans?

We can send you our latest specifications and floor plans as a PDF via the “Start your cost estimate” form.

Start your cost estimate

PP Mini Homes.

Pleysier Perkins Mini Homes.

Mini Homes
For Your Garden.
‍Create your perfect
escape with your
architect-designed
backyard pod.

We deliver high-quality architecture to your garden in Melbourne and beyond.

The Pod by
PP Mini Homes

Frequently Asked Questions:

About

Think Mini,
Live Large.

Mini Homes For Your Garden.‍Create your perfect escape with your architect-designed backyard pod.

We deliver high-quality architecture to your garden in Melbourne and beyond.

The Pod byPP Mini Homes

Frequently Asked Questions:

About

Think Mini, Live Large.

Mini Homes
For Your Garden.
‍Create your perfect
escape with your
architect-designed
backyard pod.

The Pod by
PP Mini Homes

Think Mini,
Live Large.