How to Prepare For a Modular Home Site

Modular homes do require detailed site work so that smooth delivery and set-up can take place once the modular home arrives. The best thing is that all of this can be completed while your home is being constructed in the factory. Generally, the process includes three major areas which are excavation and grading, foundation formation, and utility access which includes water, sewage and other utilities.

Excavation is required for the foundation “hole,” as well as any needed access for the crane and crew. The degree of excavation depends on your lot’s terrain and soil composition. If it is heavily wooded, greater amount of clearing will be needed so that the foundation hole can be made and so that the modules can be delivered. The crane that places the modules on the foundation will also need appropriate room to set up. If there is an abundance of ledge or rock on the site, blasting and subsequent landfill may also be needed. Each of these cost more or less depending on the lot’s character.

Foundations are critical for modular homes, and a structural or foundation engineer is needed to make sure it is done correctly. Modular homes cannot be placed on slabs, but instead must have a 4 foot elevation minimum. If you are building in a colder climate, foundations wall must also be 4 feet I below the ground to prevent frost from causing movement of the structure as it freezes and expands. Depending on whether you have a crawl space or a basement, this means the foundation walls can be up to 12 feet in height. The most important factor is having a level foundation platform for your modular home. The platform itself must be within