What is a Modular Home?
A modular home is a prefabricated dwelling constructed off-site in separate modules or sections, then transported and assembled on-site.
Buying a House in Ireland: A Step by Step Guide by a Builder/Solicitor
What is the Difference between a Modular home and a Regular home?
- Construction Method – Modular homes are constructed off-site in sections or modules in a factory setting, while traditional stick-built homes are built entirely on-site.
- Building Process – Modular homes are assembled indoors in a controlled environment, while traditional homes are subject to weather conditions during construction, which can affect timelines and quality.
- Transportation and Assembly – Once built, modules are transported to the building site and assembled on a permanent foundation. Stick-built homes are built on-site from the ground up, with materials delivered as needed.
- Time and Cost – Modular homes typically have shorter construction timelines compared to traditional homes due to the streamlined construction process.
How long does it take to build a modular home?
According to numerous sources, the time it takes to build a modular home varies greatly.
However, the maximum time it takes to complete a modular home project from scratch is 22 weeks (about 6 months). And this includes various issues you may have along the way.
Most other projects take anywhere between 6 to 12 weeks to complete.
When was the First Modular Home in Ireland Built?
Though the history of modern modular homes goes as far back as the 1800’s, it wasn’t until the 20th century that prefabricated housing became popular. This was especially true after World War II in regions such as the United States, Canada, and Northern Europe.
However, the very first modular home in Ireland was built in 2016.
Former Environment Minister Alan Kelly pushed modular homes as a quick solution for homeless families stuck in hotels at the time. This solution included 22 homes that were built in only 16 weeks at at Poppintree, Ballymun, Dublin – with no compromise in quality! (Source – Irish Examiner)
What are the benefits of Modular Homes?
- FAST CONSTRUCTION – Modular homes are built off-site in a factory-controlled environment, allowing for quicker construction compared to traditional stick-built homes.
- COST-EFFECTIVE – Modular construction often results in lower labor costs and reduced material waste, leading to potential cost savings for homeowners. However, this might have changed in recent years due to industry labour shortage and increases in the prices of materials.
- CUSTOMISATION – Modular homes offer flexibility in design and customisation, with various floor plans, layouts, and architectural styles available to suit individual preferences.
- QUALITY CONTROL – Modular homes undergo rigorous quality control inspections throughout the construction process, ensuring adherence to building codes and standards.
- ENERGY EFFICIENT – Many modular homes are designed with energy-efficient features such as high-quality insulation, HVAC systems, and energy-efficient windows, resulting in lower utility bills for homeowners.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY – The factory construction process of modular homes generates less waste and pollution compared to traditional construction methods, making them a more environmentally friendly housing option.
Overall, modular homes provide a modern, convenient, and affordable housing solution for individuals and families.
Modular Homes Ireland & UK – Facebook Community***
The “Modular Home Ireland and UK” Facebook group is a community with over 2000 members dedicated to discussing all aspects of modular homes in Ireland and the UK. It covers a wide range of topics, including sharing:
- Project Showcases – Members share pictures and updates of their modular home projects.
- Maintenance Tips – Advice and suggestions on maintaining modular homes.
- Planning Advice – Tips, tricks, and experiences related to planning permissions and regulations.
- Supplier Reviews – Recommendations and reviews of modular home suppliers.
- Technical Assistance – A space to ask and answer technical questions about modular construction.
The group provides a platform for members to exchange experiences, seek guidance, and discover practical solutions related to modular home living in Ireland and the UK. It’s also an ideal place for both current owners and those considering buying or building a modular home.
You can check out the group HERE.
Do you need Planning Permission for a Modular Home or Extension in Ireland?
Absolutely! Every home or residential building requires planning permission in Ireland.
However, there are exceptions to certain types of extensions.
According to the Pod Factory, one of Ireland’s best suppliers of modular homes, you do not need a planning permission for an extension up to 40sqm. In case of a free-standing building or garden room, you do not need planning permission up to a maximum of 25sqm.
However, you also need to consider the following to be fully exempt:
- You may build up to a maximum of 3m high for a single-pitched roof
- You may build up to a maximum of 4m high for a tiled-pitched roof
- Windows must not be placed within 1m of a neighbour’s boundary.
- The primary use of the modular garden room must NOT be for living in or for commercial use.
- You MUST have 25sqm of free space left in your garden after the installation.
See below the summary of planning permission exemptions as shown on their website.
Read our detailed post on planning permissions HERE.
What is the cheapest way to build a house in Ireland?
Given the exceptional high costs involved in building a house in 2024, log cabins and modular homes have begun to follow that trend too. This is also due to the fact that in order to build a log house or modular home, you need to be the owner of the land too.
So, though modular homes may be slightly cheaper than traditional homes today, the difference may not be by much. So consider this before talking to your builder.
Now, The Pod Factory claims they can build your 3-bed modular home for less than half the cost of conventional homes. With their solid reputation, I am inclined to take their word for it. However, I do not have an exact confirmation.
If you do have any details or confirmation of modular home costs, kindly share in the comments or contact me directly.
What is the difference between a Modular Home and a Manufactured Home?
The main difference between the two is that the modules/pieces of a modular home are made off-site, transported and then secured to a foundation on site.
A manufactured home on the other hand is fully completed off-site and then transported in one piece to the site. However, it is not secured to a foundation which allows it to be moved elsewhere if needed.
How much do modular homes cost in Ireland?
Today, due to the rising prices in materials and shortage of labour, modular homes are similar or equal to standard house prices in Ireland today. The main advantage of modular homes is their faster build time, without any compromise in quality.
After carrying out more extensive research, Irish tiny home and modular home suppliers were pretty cryptic about the prices – as you need to contact most of them discreetly for a quote first.
However, I was able to find out that an ideal granny flat with Tinyhomes.ie in 2022 could start at around €29,500 . But it would be prudent to assume that those prices have gone up by now.
On Donedeal.ie, for reference, there is a 20 x 19 modular home for just €16,500, amongst others.
These figures above are just for reference, it is best that you reach out to a trusted supplier and get a quote for your modular home.
How long do modular homes last?
High quality modular homes have a life span of up to 60 years or more. But this should improve significantly due to constant improvements in construction technology.
How customisable are modular homes?
Modular homes are very customisable. This is because each module is constructed separately, allowing for more room for creativity and amendments.
The homeowner and manufacturer work closely during the design stage to create a home that perfectly fits their tastes.
Can I get a mortgage for a modular home?
Yes. Though financing may be challenging.
Bear in mind that in Ireland, most lenders may view the modular home as a depreciable, non-standard construction. This means they are more likely to offer you a loan for a modular extension instead of an entire home mortgage. You are more likely to get a mortgage if you are building a concrete modular home.
Buildwright, Ireland’s only concrete modular home builder, has a partnership with Permanent TSB that guarantees mortgages for their modular clients. Read our post on financing for modular homes HERE.
The best advice in this case to consult with your lender for any specific details that need to be ironed out.
Who makes the best modular homes in Ireland?
This is a tough one to answer. However, some of the most reputable providers include.
- Modular Homes Ireland – sales@bigredbarn.ie, PND Business Park Foxford Road Swinford Co.Mayo.
- The Pod Factory – sales@thepodfactory.ie, Lismullin, Garlow Cross, Co. Meath, C15 KR3K
- Steel Tech Sheds – multiple locations nationwide
- Big Man Tiny Homes – info@bigmanmodular.ie, Clancool Beg, Bandon, Co. Cork, P72 H763
- BRB Homes – info@brbhomes.ie, Byrne Rapid Build Ltd, Foxford Road, Swinford, Mayo F12 P970
- Therma House Ireland – info@thermahouse.ie, Kilbelin, Newbridge, Co. Kildare
- Gleoite Homes – gleoitehomesltd@gmail.com, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway
For a more concise list, see our breakdown of the best modular home builders HERE.
