When a builder or an operator considers modular for their next childcare centre, the same questions come up before the enquiry becomes a quote. This guide answers twenty-five of them in one page, grouped into cost and feasibility, timeline, compliance, operator specifics, and site and handover. Each answer is self-contained, so you can read one in isolation and get a defensible position.
Every module is fabricated offshore under Australian engineering, Australian QA and Australian NCC compliance oversight, and lands as a Class 9b certified box. The scope split is simple: EcoPrestige supplies the modules and fitout with the NCC documentation and warranty, and the builder holds the site and the install. EcoPrestige coordinates delivery but does not carry install responsibility. Use this list as a first-pass feasibility filter before you book a scope call.
Cost & feasibility
What does a modular childcare centre cost per square metre?
Around $2,200 to $2,300 per square metre for supply, quoted ex-GST with ocean freight included and locked before production starts.
What is the cost per place?
It depends on room mix and state. Use the cost-per-place guide for state-by-state bands rather than a single national number.
When is the supply price locked?
At engagement, before production starts. There are no weather, trade or material escalation variations after the price is set.
Is ocean freight included in the price?
Yes. Ocean freight is included in the EcoPrestige supply price.
How does modular compare with a conventional build on cost and program?
Supply cost is comparable or lower, with around 30 percent program saving against a conventional build.
Timeline & programme
How long from engagement to occupancy?
Order of magnitude is roughly 14 months from engagement to Occupancy Certificate. Confirm the exact program against your site and permit timing.
How long is factory production?
Around 14 weeks once the building permit triggers production.
Can civil works run at the same time as production?
Yes. Site civils run concurrent with factory production, which is where most of the program saving comes from.
How long is installation on site?
Delivery runs over a few weeks, then crane and bolt-down take about a week.
What triggers production start?
The building permit triggers factory production.
Compliance & warranty
What NCC class is an early learning centre?
NCC Class 9b assembly, which is the correct classification for an early learning centre and supports ACECQA registration.
What is Evidence of Suitability?
It is the pathway a building surveyor uses to accept a factory-certified module. See the Evidence of Suitability guide for detail.
What structural warranty applies to an ELC?
A 12-year structural warranty on the steel frame and connections.
What materials warranty applies?
A 12-month materials and fitout warranty from handover.
Is an Occupancy Certificate provided?
Yes. An Occupancy Certificate pathway is provided on handover and every module leaves the factory certified.
Operator specifics
Does modular support ACECQA registration?
Yes. Class 9b design supports ACECQA registration from day one.
Can the layout be customised to our operating model?
Yes. Interiors are fully customised to brief before the pre-built rules are locked for production.
Does modular suit a 15-year operator lease?
Yes. A certified Class 9b asset supports a premium long-term operator lease.
Can we use one, two or three-room templates?
Yes. Standardised one, two and three-room modular kindergarten templates are available.
Does the module handle regional wind and site conditions?
Standard ratings cover Victorian sites. Exposed sites can be upgraded at low marginal cost.
Site & handover
What services rough-in is included?
Electrical, data and split air conditioning are pre-installed and roughed-in. The builder makes final connections to the pre-positioned risers.
What is in the builder scope at handover?
Piers, civil works, service connections, acoustic and childproof fencing, landscaping and play area, crane, install and site management.
Are appliances included on an ELC?
Kitchen joinery is included; appliances are excluded on ELC fitouts.
Who handles the play area and fencing?
The builder, to AS 1926.1 and the planning permit conditions.
How are defects handled after handover?
Under the 12-month materials and fitout warranty from handover.
Related reading: the modular childcare cost per place guide, the modular construction cost guide, the modular construction timeline guide, the Evidence of Suitability guide, the modular childcare centres hub and the modular buildings for builders page.