Tiny Houses 101
What even are tiny houses? Read on to learn how we define them, plus answers to frequently asked questions about tinys.
How ATHA defines a tiny house
ATHA (Australian Tiny House Association) defines a tiny house as a dwelling of no more than 50m² built on a wheeled trailer base, constructed of domestic grade materials and finishes, that is capable of being permanently occupied. A tiny house cannot (and is designed not to) be moved under its own power and is designed and built to look like a conventional dwelling.
A retrofitted bus, van or truck, wagon, retrofitted shipping container, caravan, tent, yurt, non-retrofitted vehicle or ‘donga’ transportable or park home, is not a tiny house for ATHA’s purposes.
ATHA’s definition of a tiny house does not relate to permanently fixed smaller sized homes on foundations. A house on fixed foundations, of any size, can be assessed under the National Construction Codes. Tiny houses on skids are likely to be in this category too.
Tiny Houses on Wheels (THOW) are not transportable homes currently covered under building regulations nor are they a recreational vehicle such as a caravan, yet they may be connected to a trailer base. Tiny Houses on Skids (THOS) are most likely to be considered as buildings, even if they are only temporary.
Tiny living FAQs
Is it just a trend?
No, tiny houses are not just a trend. This movement is growing bigger and bigger due to macro trends such as the increasing unattainability of housing, increasing cost of living as well as dire climate and environmental pressures.
Aren't they just caravans?
Not at all. Tiny houses are built specifically for long term living and most often built with high quality materials and designed with storage, comfort and liveability in mind. Many also have bespoke elements, custom designed especially for the person who owns them. They are subsequently heavier than caravans and built for longevity.
Why buy a depreciating asset?
Although technically tiny homes can be a depreciating asset, people consider more than just the financial return when deciding to invest in a tiny. It is often a very personal decision that allows focus on lifestyle considerations over resaleability.
How do I get insurance on a tiny?
Insurance for Tiny Homes on Wheels and Skids can be one of the most difficult elements when looking to live tiny. Be very careful and do due diligence when researching insurance options. Look over what is actually insured under a policy as some companies do not cover essential elements.
Why aren't there clear regulations?
Because tiny homes are a relatively new housing typology, they don't neatly fit into existing legislative frameworks. It is not clear and simple to navigate. As a new housing typology and due to different factors for different locations, they are affected by federal, state and local frameworks and policies.
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