Turn-key modular housing offers an innovative solution for those looking to build a home that is efficient, modern, and tailored to their lifestyle. At Evermod, we specialize in providing beautifully designed, turn-key modular homes. Even though our process is streamlined, there are important steps every homeowner needs to understand before placing a modular home on their land. In this blog post, we walk you through the foundational elements of planning your modular home project step by step, including permitting, site prep, and choosing the right local professionals.

What Is a Modular Home?

Modular homes are prefabricated houses built in sections (modules) in a factory-controlled environment. Once completed, these modules are transported to the building site and assembled on a permanent foundation. Unlike mobile homes, modular homes are considered real property and must comply with local and national building codes.

In 2023, the modular housing market in Europe saw steady growth, driven by the EU’s focus on sustainable development and energy-efficient construction. According to Statista, the European modular construction market was valued at approximately €21.5 billion in 2022 and is projected to continue growing due to housing shortages and urban densification. Now, let’s see what the essentials you need to know are before getting a modular home.

Step 1: Understand Local Permitting Requirements

Before you can begin construction, you must get approval from your local government. This usually means working with a local architect or engineer to create a site plan that meets building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations.

Key Permits to Consider

Building Permit - That is Where Your Journey Begins

A building permit is the formal approval issued by local authorities that allows you to begin construction. It ensures that your modular home project meets local structural safety, energy efficiency, and fire safety regulations.

Why it matters for modular homes:
Even though many modular components are prefabricated off-site, the onsite assembly and foundations still need to comply with national and municipal building codes. Inspections are often required at key phases, such as before pouring the foundation and after structural completion.

Pro Tip: In some countries, a modular home may go through a simplified process if it's considered "temporary" or "transportable" — always verify with your municipality.

Zoning Clearance (Land-Use Approval)

Zoning clearance verifies that your planned home complies with local land-use regulations, which dictate what kind of buildings can be constructed in specific areas.

Why it matters:
Even if your building meets safety requirements, you might not be allowed to build it in a particular area if the land is zoned for agriculture, commercial use, or protected space. This clearance also covers things like building height, distance from property lines (setbacks), and usage restrictions.

Modular home twist: Some regions have specific zoning rules for prefab or modular homes, especially regarding aesthetics or footprint. Make sure your design doesn't conflict with the neighborhood's character or guidelines.

Utility Permits for Modular Homes

These permits cover the installation and connection of essential services such as: water, gas, electricity, sewage/drainage systems.

Why it matters:
Your modular home needs to be connected to local utility networks to be habitable. Utility permits ensure that this integration is done safely and meets municipal requirements. This may involve trenching, meters, or coordinating with public works departments.

Helpful Tip: In rural or off-grid areas, permits may also cover alternative systems, like rainwater harvesting, solar panels, or septic tanks.

Helpful resource: European Construction Sector Observatory (ECSO) Reports

Step 2: Choosing the Right Foundation

Modular homes require a permanent foundation, which can vary based on location and soil conditions. The three most common types are:

• Slab-on-Grade: Ideal for warmer climates.
• Crawl Space: Offers access to utilities and minor insulation benefits.
• Full Basement: More expensive, but adds usable square footage.

Finding a foundation specialist familiar with local soil and weather conditions is key. Your Evermod team could advise you in finding a contractor to ensure our modular specs align with your foundation design.

Step 3: Plan for Electrical and Utility Connections

Modular homes arrive with pre-installed interior wiring, but you’ll still need a licensed electrician to connect it to the grid. Similarly, water and septic systems must be professionally installed and inspected.

Make sure your site plan includes:

• Location of utility poles and access points
• Trenching for underground electrical lines
• Sewer/septic and water line routing

Check out the European Federation of National Electrical Contractors (EuropeOn) to find licensed professionals in your area.

Step 4: Budget and Timeline Considerations

While modular homes can be built faster than traditional homes (in about 3 months) the permitting and site prep process can add several months so you should plan that before you order your modular home, or at the beginning of the process, so everything goes smoothly. 

According to Modular Building Institute Europe, homeowners can save 10–25% on construction costs compared to site-built homes, thanks to controlled factory production and reduced labor waste, because the prices are set, you don’t have to worry about any unexpected expenses.

Step 5: Partner with the Right Modular Home Provider

Working with an experienced provider like Evermod ensures that your home is built to the highest standards and tailored to your needs. From modern designs to customizable layouts, we make the journey to homeownership simple and inspiring.

We also help guide our clients through every step, from architectural coordination to logistics and on-site assembly. We are customer-oriented and are here to help you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts on Planning Before Getting a Modular Home

Planning your modular home is exciting, but it’s essential to be informed and well-prepared. With the right local experts and a trusted modular provider like Evermod, your modular home can become a reality faster and more affordably than you may think.

Need help getting started? Reach out to the Evermod team today for a personalized consultation.

Let’s Build Smarter. Let’s Build Modular.