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

 

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