Temporary modular buildings are factory-built modules placed on a site for a defined period, then lifted off and moved or re-used. For builders, government buyers and project owners they solve one problem: space is needed now, and a permanent build is not justified or not ready.
As the manufacturer, EcoPrestige is responsible for every module: built and inspected in an offsite factory to Australian engineering and QA, then delivered to site.
Where temporary modular buildings are used
- Site offices, lunch rooms and amenities for construction projects (see modular site offices and amenities).
- Decant classrooms while a school is rebuilt (see portable classrooms or modular classrooms).
- Staff and worker accommodation for regional health services, councils and resource projects.
- Temporary clinics, offices and community spaces after a fire, flood or during a refurbishment.
Temporary does not mean light-weight
A structural steel module is designed to be lifted, transported and re-set without racking the frame. That is what lets the same building serve a second site, or become permanent later. Lightweight portable huts are cheaper to hire but are rarely suitable for long stays, staff housing or occupied classrooms.
Approvals still apply
A temporary building is still a building. Most states require a building permit or approval for an occupied module, and the class of building (typically Class 5 for offices, Class 3 or 1b for accommodation, Class 9b for classrooms, confirmed by your building surveyor) sets the fire, access and energy requirements. Ask your building surveyor early for their documentation checklist so the module documents are prepared to it.*
Hire, buy or buy-back
Hire suits short programs under about a year. Buying suits longer stays, repeated use across sites, or a building that may become permanent. Supply price is quoted for your site, including freight, crane and installation.
How a project runs
- Send the site, the use, the number of people and how long you need the space.
- We confirm module layout, the likely building class and what your surveyor will need.
- Modules are manufactured and inspected offsite while your site works and footings proceed.
- Delivery, crane set and connection, then occupancy is issued by your building surveyor.
Related: transportable buildings and prebuilt modular systems in Australia.
Frequently asked questions
What is a temporary modular building?
A factory-built module placed on a site for a set period and then removed, moved or re-used. Steel-framed modules can be re-set on a new site without damage to the frame.
Do temporary buildings need a building permit?
Usually yes, if people will occupy them. Requirements vary by state and by building class, so your building surveyor confirms the pathway for your site.*
How long does a temporary modular building last?
A structural steel module is built for repeated transport and long service, so it can be used across several projects or kept as a permanent building.
Can a temporary module become permanent?
Yes, if it was documented to the standard a permanent building of that class needs. Tell us at enquiry if permanence is a possibility so the documents allow for it.
*Rules vary by state. Design and building work is carried out by the licensed or registered practitioner your state requires. Send your enquiry first so you are fully informed.