FAQs

MODULAR HOMES - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)

 

What is a modular home?

  • Prefabricated home built in a controlled factory environment
  • Constructed as sections (modules)
  • Transported to the property and assembled on site
  • Ensures consistent quality, efficiency, and faster construction

 

What is the difference between a modular home and a mobile home?

  Modular home:

  • Built to Ontario Building Code (OBC) and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards
  • Installed on a permanent foundation

  Mobile home:

  • Built on a steel frame with wheels and a hitch
  • Designed to be moved

 

What are the benefits of modular homes?

  • Faster construction time lines
  • Factory-controlled quality
  • High energy efficiency
  • Custom design flexibility
  • Reduced construction waste
  • Lower potential financing and carrying costs
  • Simplified building process with coordinated trades

 

Are modular homes energy efficient?

  • Yes. Modular homes are built to National Building Code and Ontario Building Code standards
  • High insulation values:
    • Walls: R-34
    • Floors: R-40
    • Ceilings: R-60
    • Exterior: 2" rigid foam insulation
    • Continuous vapor barrier improves energy efficiency

 

Do modular homes use the same materials as site-built homes?

  • Yes, the same high-quality building materials are used
  • Modular homes often contain 15–20% more structural material
  • Additional steel bracing helps withstand transport forces
  • Factory construction protects materials from weather during building

 

Is the foundation included when buying a modular home?

  • Foundations are typically not included in the purchase agreement
  • Homes are installed on foundations prepared by the customer
    • Common foundation types include:
      • Concrete or wood basements
      • Walk-out or partial basements
      • Pony walls (crawlspace)
      • Screw piles
      • Cribbing
      • Triodetic systems
      • Optional skirting can be provided on request

 

Can modular homes have basements?

  • Yes.
  • Modular homes can be installed on:
    • Full basements
    • Partial basements
    • Walk-out basements
    • Crawlspaces (pony walls)
    • Screw piles or cribbing where permitted

 

CHOOSE THE FOUNDATION

Why is it important to choose a foundation / footings at the start of the process? 

Choosing a foundation or footings at the start of a modular home build is crucial because the foundation must be completed to precise specifications before the modules arrive to ensure structural integrity. It dictates the home's stability, longevity, and budget, while matching the specific soil, topography, and climate of the site. The house must have space underneath to be able to access the utilities. A modular house cannot be placed on a concrete slab. The type of foundation that is chosen will also affect the cost of delivery and installation of the modular home.

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Can I customize a Smart Modular Canada home design?

  • Yes, existing modular home designs can be fully customized
  • In-house designers help tailor layouts, finishes, and features

 

Can I bring my own design for a modular home?

  • Yes. Smart Modular Canada works with in-house designers and external engineers
  • Custom homes and buildings can be designed and manufactured to your specifications

 

Do you build multi-storey modular buildings?

  • Yes. Buildings can be constructed:
    • Single-storey
    • Two-storey
    • Up to six storeys under the Ontario Building Code (OBC)
    • Future code updates may allow taller modular buildings

 

Can you finance a modular home?

  • Yes. Financing options include:
    • Traditional mortgages
    • Personal loans

 

Does Smart Modular Canada handle building permits?

  • The company handles manufacturing permits and inspections
  • Transport companies handle transport permits
    • Customers obtain site permits, including:
      • Building permits
      • Septic permits

 

Can modular homes be moved?

  • Not usually. They are designed as permanent structures built to OBC and CSA standards
  • They are not built on wheels like mobile homes
  • Typically remain in place once installed, however, they can be relocated using specialized trailers and equipment

 

Does Smart Modular Canada offer a warranty?

  • Yes. 10-year structural warranty on residential buildings
  • 1-year manufacturer warranties on most materials and equipment
  • Additional limited warranties available for multi-residential and commercial buildings
  • Homeowners must maintain the home and equipment to keep warranties valid

 

Can I place a modular home on my property in Ontario?

  • Yes. It requires municipal building permit approval before installation