Our Process
Do you like what you see? Do you think a Modular House might be the right fit for you? Wondering how to get started?
REVIEW THE SMART MODULAR CANADA PROCESS:
STEP 1 – GET IN TOUCH (1 WEEK)
PRELIMINARY DISCUSSION – Request a Quote (insert hyperlink)
We will review via email, phone or in person the viability of bringing a modular home to your site. Among other things we will discuss your project goals to determine if the Smart Modular Canada solution is right for you. Among other things we will discuss: Budget, Timeline, Scope and Logistics
STEP 2 – DESIGN AND ENGINEERING (4-8 WEEKS)
STANDARD PLAN OR STANDARD PLAN WITH MODIFICATIONS – View current catalogue
Smart Modular Canada will provide a list of standard designs from our Catalogue. Once you've chosen your preferred design, an associate will guide you on all the decor selections. You can select from our standard finishes or consider upgrade options. After you have finalized your selections, we will provide you a sales agreement.
STEP 3 – GET IN THE QUEUE (1 Week-12 Months)
PART 1 – RESERVE YOUR PRICE TO SECURE YOUR PRODUCTION TIME
A Reservation deposit of the home sale price is required to secure a place in our production line. Engineering and model specific drawings will start after a deposit has been paid. After the drawings have been finalized, you can submit it to your local building authority for the appropriate permits.
PART 2 – SUBMIT FOR PERMIT
It's the client's responsibility to submit permit documents to your local municipality for approval. Permitting costs and timelines vary significantly depending on the municipality.
STEP 4 – BUILD (3-6 Months)
PART 1 – MATERIAL ORDER AND PRODUCTION
Site construction can usually start at this time.
Once the full deposit (less the design deposit, if applicable) is received, the materials for production will be ordered.
We aim to accommodate your timeline based on when your lot and foundation are ready; however, work is scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
To increase the speed of the process, the site prep can be completed at the same time. Site prep and foundation to be done by the client (2–8 weeks)
- Clear the lot, rough in driveway, trench for utilities, then excavate and pour the foundation (basement, crawlspace, or slab).
- Actual “work time” is often 2–4 weeks, but you also have curing time for concrete and potential weather delays.
PART 2 – PRODUCTION
The building of your Smart Modular Canada home begins! While the site is being prepared, the modules are carefully constructed indoors in our manufacturing facility: framing, insulation, windows, roofing, drywall, rough plumbing, electrical, cabinets and more. You will also receive an updated estimated completion date so you can stay in the loop every step of the way.
PART 3 -COMPLETION OF FACTORY PRODUCTION
While the construction of the home is being completed, a representative from Smart Modular Canada will confirm that the on-site preparation has been completed and the property can accommodate the house delivery.
STEP 5 – SHIPPING, CRANING, INSTALL AND HANDOVER (1-6 Weeks)
PART 1 – SHIPPING AND CRANING
Your Smart Modular Canada structure is shipped on a truck to your building location and craned or rolled onto the foundation, depending on the particular circumstances of the site.
PART 2 – ON-SITE FINISHING AND HOOK UPS
The Smart Modular Canada crew completes the initial installation of the home onto the foundation. For multi-module homes, they are joined together and made weather tight.
Once Hydro is connected (the client must make these arrangements), the Smart Modular Canada crew returns to complete the interior work, including electrical, plumbing and mechanical connections, along with all the other finishing touches that will make your house feel like a home.
Exterior stairs or porches, landings, decks and landscaping can be completed are the responsibility of the client.
PART 3 – WALK THROUGH AND HAND OVER
When your home is complete, a Smart Modular Canada associate will guide you through a final walkthrough. Together, you'll receive a checklist and officially sign off on your new home.
Please note: changes in the scope of the project may occur and affect the cost and timeline within the process.
WHAT ELSE YOU NEED TO KNOW
Where delays usually happen
- Permits and approvals taking longer than expected.
- Design/selection changes during or after the factory build phase.
- Site issues (poor soil, rock, access for trucks/crane, seasonal restrictions).
Assessing your Lot
Smart Modular Canada structures can be placed onto almost any lot with flexible foundation options including screw piles, a crawl space and even a full basement. The lot must be cleared and leveled by the client before installation can begin.
Below are the typical requirements that identify whether your lot is suitable for a Smart Modular Canada modular home.
ZONING AND BYLAWS
It's a good idea to make sure there are no restrictions in your area that could affect the installation of your modular home, and that the model you have chosen fits your lot while meeting required setbacks and other rules. This can usually be confirmed by reviewing your property's bylaws and site plan
SHIPPING
We must be certain that we can ship the prefab modules to your location. Some models have modules that are up to 16' wide and up to 74' long. Some bridges, narrow roads, turning radius' and highways may impact delivery. Sometimes these restrictions can affect the final design for your property. Your Smart Modular Canada representative will help you confirm whether a modular home is suitable for your lot.
CRANING
Finally, we need to be sure that we can gain access to your lot with enough room to crane the modular home onto its foundation. We can discuss your requirements, but it may require a look in person by a Smart Modular Canada representative.