We deliver our Buildlite units to most locations within Ontario. For areas outside of Ontario, please contact us to discuss available shipping options. For our Premium and Pro-Assembly services, we currently provide services exclusively within a 50km radius of Burlington. If you're located beyond this range, our team can guide you on alternative arrangements.

Shipping costs are determined based on several factors, including your location, the size of your unit(s), and the quantity of materials ordered.

Fees may vary depending on how far or remote your location is, the dimensions of the units, and the number of units you purchase. To receive an accurate shipping quote, please provide your delivery address and details about your order when contacting our sales team.

For all Buildlite packages, your modular unit is delivered directly to your site using a flatbed trailer. For the DIY Kit, the materials can be offloaded manually without heavy machinery, and with the help of two capable individuals, they can be easily laid out for assembly.

For the Pro-Assembly and Premium packages, our team handles the offloading and installation, ensuring your unit is delivered and set up with ease.

Due to the custom nature of our modular units, we do not offer returns once production has begun.

However, we are committed to ensuring your satisfaction throughout the process. If you encounter any issues during the design, delivery or installation phases, our team will work closely with you to address concerns and make necessary adjustments. For any questions or concerns, please contact our customer care team, and we’ll be happy to assist.

Modular buildings are designed and constructed to meet or exceed the same building codes and standards as traditional site-built structures. Here's why they are durable, high-quality, and safe:

• High-Quality Construction: Modular buildings are manufactured in controlled factory environments, ensuring consistent quality and precision. This process minimizes construction errors and material waste, resulting in superior building components.
• Durability: Built with robust materials and advanced engineering techniques, modular buildings are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and daily wear and tear. Their structural integrity is often enhanced due to the precision of factory assembly.
• Safety Standards Compliance: Modular buildings adhere to all national and local building codes, including safety regulations for fire, electrical, and structural systems. They undergo rigorous inspections and testing both during manufacturing and after on-site assembly.
• Material Excellence: We use high-quality materials like insulated metal panels that offer exceptional thermal performance and structural strength. These materials contribute to the building's longevity and energy efficiency.
• Environmental Resistance: Modular buildings are engineered to resist environmental challenges such as heavy snow loads, strong winds, and seismic activity, making them suitable for various climates—including harsh Canadian conditions.
• Quality Control: The factory setting allows for stringent quality control measures at every stage of construction. This results in a finished product that often surpasses the quality of traditional on-site builds.
• Customization with Safety in Mind: When customizing your modular building, you have the option to include additional safety features such as reinforced doors, impact-resistant windows, and advanced security systems.

In summary, modular buildings offer a level of durability, quality, and safety that is equal to or even exceeds that of traditional construction methods. With the Buildlite DIY Kit, you can have confidence that your modular building is a secure, high-quality, and long-lasting investment.

Helical screw pile foundations are steel shafts with helical plates (like large screws) that are driven deep into the ground to provide stable and secure support for structures. They offer a strong foundation solution with minimal ground disturbance.

• Quick Installation: Helical screw piles can be installed rapidly without the need for extensive excavation or concrete curing times, accelerating your construction schedule.
• Immediate Load-Bearing Capacity: Once installed, they are ready to bear loads immediately, allowing you to proceed with building without delays.
• Minimal Site Disturbance: The installation process is clean and efficient, causing less disruption to your site compared to traditional foundations.
• Versatility in Various Soil Conditions: They are suitable for a wide range of soil types, including areas where traditional foundations are challenging to implement.
• Cost-Effective: Reduced labor and material requirements can lead to overall cost savings on your project.
• Eco-Friendly: With less excavation and soil displacement, helical screw piles are a more environmentally friendly option.
• Easy Removal and Reusability: If needed, they can be removed with minimal impact on the site and even reused, adding to their sustainability.

The cost of helical screw pile foundations is determined by the size of your modular unit and is not included in the base price. Additional charges will apply based on your specific build dimensions. Based on a 600 sqft unit, helical screw piles cost from $3500 - $4000. During your consultation, we’ll recommend the best foundation option to fit your needs.

Buildlite can be placed on an existing foundation or installed with a helical screw pile foundation.

At Buildlite, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our modular homes are designed with eco-friendly materials and cutting-edge technologies that reduce environmental impact.

We offer renewable energy options like solar panels, wind energy, and geothermal systems, along with rainwater harvesting and recycling solutions to promote self-sufficiency.

By optimizing land use, reducing energy consumption with efficient building practices, and offering sustainable finishes, our homes provide an environmentally conscious alternative. With Buildlite, you can create a space that aligns with your commitment to a greener future.

Our DIY Kit provides all the essential materials and documentation needed to build the exterior weather-tight shell of your unit. Here’s what’s included:

• Steel, Insulated Metal Panels (IMP): Our high-quality steel insulated panels offer superior durability, energy efficiency, and weather resistance, providing the structural core of your unit. The insulated metal panels help maintain indoor temperature while reducing energy consumption.
• TGI’s & Floor Joists: The kit includes engineered Timber Joist Girders (TGI’s) and floor joists, which are pre-cut and designed to fit seamlessly into the overall structure, ensuring a solid and stable foundation for your unit.
• Windows & Doors: Energy-efficient, high-quality windows and doors are provided to create a functional and comfortable living space. These components are selected to meet building codes and optimize natural light and ventilation.
• Nuts, Bolts & Screws: All the necessary hardware for assembly, including nuts, bolts, screws, and other fasteners, are included to ensure every piece fits securely, eliminating the need for additional purchases.
• Engineered Drawings: You’ll receive detailed, stamped engineered drawings that outline every step of the construction process. These drawings meet all local building standards and are essential for obtaining the necessary permits.

Yes, prior construction experience is required to successfully assemble the DIY Kit. While the kit includes comprehensive instructions and all necessary materials, the complexity of the build requires a solid understanding of construction techniques. We recommend either having prior experience or working with an experienced team to ensure a smooth and safe assembly process.

Our Pro-Assembly Package includes everything from the DIY Kit, along with expert assembly services to help erect the main structure and frame of your unit.

Note: The Pro-Assembly Package allows you to complete the finishing touches yourself, and does not include finishes, decor, appliances, or furniture.

Our professional assembly typically takes less than 2 weeks upon delivery of materials and depending on the complexity of your project. We'll provide an estimated timeline during the planning phase.

The Premium Package provides a fully assembled, turnkey modular unit that's ready for you to move into. You'll work closely with our in-house design team to:

• Customize your unit's size
• Complete the interior floor plan
• Select finishes for the entire interior and exterior, including paint, cabinets, countertops, lighting, flooring, and more

We aim to tailor every detail to suit your preferences, ensuring your modular space feels like home from day one. If you need additional assistance, we can help source furniture and appliances at an extra cost.

The timeline for the Premium Package is approximately 4 months from the initial consultation to move-in. This includes time for design, permitting, manufacturing, and on-site assembly. Once we begin installation, your unit will be ready for move-in in approximately 6 weeks.

Yes, you can enhance your modular unit with renewable and off-grid energy solutions such as solar panels, wind turbines, grey water systems, incinerator toilets, and more. While we don't offer these installations directly, we can connect you with trusted third-party professionals who specialize in integrating these systems. This allows you to create an eco-friendly and energy-efficient space tailored to your needs.

You are responsible for arranging electrical and plumbing connections for your modular unit. However, we can assist by connecting you with experienced professionals who can integrate these utilities seamlessly. Our goal is to support you in ensuring all essential services are properly installed to make your space fully functional.

Absolutely! Our design team offers a range of eco-conscious finishing choices to personalize your modular unit. From sustainable materials to energy-efficient fixtures, we provide options that align with your environmental values. Please note that while we provide these choices, the cost of materials and installation will be at your expense.

Yes, you can enhance your modular unit with additional features such as decks, rooftop patios, and more. These add-ons are available at an additional cost. Our team can discuss your ideas and provide guidance on incorporating these elements into your design to create the perfect space that meets your needs.

Yes, there are several grants and financial incentives that may be available to you when purchasing a modular unit in Ontario. These opportunities come from provincial programs, federal initiatives, and even municipal offerings. Here's a breakdown of what might be available:

Provincial Programs

1. Ontario's Modular Housing Initiative

The Ontario government is exploring modular housing as a solution to the province's housing shortage. While specific funding commitments haven't been announced yet, this initiative may lead to future financial incentives or streamlined processes for modular home buyers. We recommend keeping an eye on updates from the provincial government for new opportunities.

2. Additional Dwelling Unit and Multi-Plex Housing Incentive Program

Available in cities like Hamilton and potentially other municipalities, this program offers financial incentives that could apply to modular additional dwelling units or garden suites:

• Building Permit Fee Rebate: Receive a grant to rebate the city application fee for building permits, up to $2,000 per permit.
• Forgivable Loans for Affordable Units: Access a 15-year forgivable loan of $25,000 per eligible unit, up to $150,000 per site, for units meeting affordability criteria.

We encourage you to check with your local government to see if similar initiatives are available in your area.

Federal Programs

1. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Initiatives

The CMHC offers programs that could potentially apply to modular home purchases, especially for developers or organizations:

• Affordable Housing Fund: Provides capital for new affordable housing construction.
• Affordable Housing Innovation Fund: Offers loans and financing options for innovative housing solutions.
• Rental Construction Financing Initiative: Provides low-cost loans for sustainable rental housing projects.

While these programs are geared more towards developers than individual buyers, they contribute to the overall growth of modular housing options.

2. Housing Accelerator Fund

This federal initiative provides incentive funding to local governments to boost housing supply. While not directly accessible to individual buyers, it may lead to increased support and resources for modular housing projects at the municipal level.

Municipal and Regional Incentives

1. Local Programs and Initiatives

Many Ontario municipalities offer their own incentives for affordable or innovative housing solutions, which could include modular units:

• City of Toronto's Modular Housing Initiative: Focused on supportive housing, this program showcases municipal interest in modular construction.
• Specialized Financing Options: Local credit unions and banks are increasingly offering specialized financing for prefab and modular homes.

We recommend reaching out to your local municipal offices to inquire about any regional programs or incentives that might be available to you.

Energy Efficiency Incentives

1. Green Energy Rebates and Tax Incentives

Modular homes are often designed with energy-efficient features, which may qualify for additional incentives:

• Rebates for Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Programs may offer rebates for energy-efficient fixtures, insulation, and appliances.
• Federal and Provincial Tax Incentives: Eco-friendly homes, including modular units, may qualify for tax incentives aimed at promoting sustainability.

First-Time Home Buyer Incentives

While not specific to modular homes, first-time buyers in Ontario may benefit from a First-Time Home Buyers' Tax Credit. This offers a rebate on land transfer tax and can provide significant savings.

Important Notes

• Availability and Terms May Change: Grant programs and incentives can change, and some may have specific eligibility requirements.
• Stay Informed: We recommend consulting with local housing authorities, financial institutions, and our team at Buildlite to get the most up-to-date information on incentives in your area.
• We're Here to Help: Feel free to reach out to us for guidance on how these programs might apply to your modular home purchase.

Municipal regulations for modular home permits can vary significantly from one municipality to another in Ontario. Here's what you need to know to navigate the permitting process smoothly:

Two-Permit System for Modular Homes

Originating Municipality Permit: If your modular unit is constructed in a different municipality from where it will be installed, you might need a permit from the municipality where the unit is built. This permit typically covers the construction aspects of the modular unit itself.

Receiving Municipality Permit: You'll definitely need a permit from the municipality where your modular home will be located and occupied. This permit focuses on:

1. Compliance with Applicable Laws: Ensuring your project meets local zoning bylaws and other regulations.
2. Non-Building Code Permits: Addressing any additional local requirements not covered by the Ontario Building Code.
3. Siting and Installation Issues: Covering aspects like utility connections, access points, foundation construction, anchoring, and site grading.

CSA A277 Certification

Importance of Certification: Some municipalities may require CSA A277 certification. This certification verifies that factory-constructed buildings comply with local building codes and standards, potentially simplifying the approval process.

Documentation Requirements

While all municipalities require building permits, the specific documentation needed can differ. Generally, you will need:

1. Completed Application Forms: Official forms provided by the municipality.
2. Detailed Drawings and Plans: Architectural and engineering drawings of your modular home.
3. Construction Details: Information specifying which parts of the home will be completed in the factory versus on-site.

Compliance with the Ontario Building Code

Regardless of municipal differences, all modular homes in Ontario must comply with the Ontario Building Code. This ensures safety and quality standards are consistently met across the province.

We strongly recommend reaching out to the building department of the municipality where your modular home will be located. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on their specific permitting requirements and processes.

How Buildlite Supports You

• Expert Guidance: We're here to assist you throughout the permitting process. Our team will provide the necessary engineered drawings, construction details, and documentation to support your permit applications.
• Dedicated Support: While you'll be responsible for submitting your permit applications and coordinating with local authorities, we're committed to helping you prepare everything you need for a successful approval.