Modular construction companies in Australia fall into three groups: manufacturers that make the modules, builders and modular building contractors that hold the head contract and build on site, and installers that set and connect the modules. Most projects need all three roles, so the first question is which company carries which role, and who is responsible for each part of the building. Ask that before you compare prices.
The three kinds of modular construction company
Manufacturers
A manufacturer builds the modules in a factory: the structural steel frame, walls, services rough-in, linings and finishes. A manufacturer is responsible for every module it supplies. EcoPrestige is a manufacturer: modules are built and inspected in an offsite factory to Australian engineering and QA, then delivered to site. See modular supplier vs modular builder for how the roles split.
Builders and modular building contractors
The builder holds the building contract with the owner, prepares the site, pours the footings or slab, manages the crane day, connects services and completes the work to the occupancy permit or certificate. The builder must hold the licence or registration the state requires for that class of work. Many builders buy modules from a manufacturer rather than run their own factory.
Installers
Installers set the modules on the footings, fix them, weatherproof the joins and connect module to module. On most projects the installer works under the builder.
What to ask a modular construction company
- Which role do you carry: manufacturer, builder, installer, or more than one?
- Who is responsible for the structure, the waterproofing and the finishes of each module?
- Which engineer designs the modules, and how is the work inspected before it leaves the factory? (see modular quality assurance)
- How will the building show NCC compliance to your building surveyor? (see evidence of suitability)
- What is included in the supply price, and what is quoted separately: freight, crane, installation and site works?
- Who issues the permit drawings? Permit drawings are issued by the registered or licensed practitioner each state requires.
Where EcoPrestige fits
EcoPrestige supplies structural steel modular buildings to builders, developers and councils across Australia: commercial modular buildings, accommodation, childcare, education and workforce housing. For larger projects, early contractor involvement fixes the module grid, transport, crane and programme before design is locked (see ECI for builders and developers). Supply price is quoted for your site.
Frequently asked questions
What do modular construction companies do?
They make, build or install buildings made from factory-built modules. A manufacturer makes the modules, a builder holds the building contract and does the site work, and an installer sets and connects the modules. One company can carry more than one role.
Is a modular manufacturer the same as a modular building contractor?
No. The manufacturer is responsible for the modules it supplies. The building contractor holds the contract with the owner, does the site work and must hold the licence or registration the state requires.
How do I compare modular construction companies?
Ask which role each company carries, who is responsible for structure, waterproofing and finishes, how modules are inspected before delivery, how NCC compliance will be shown, and what the supply price includes. Send your enquiry first so you’re fully informed.
*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’re fully informed.