Transportable Home vs Kitset Homes in NZ: What’s the Difference & Why It Matters
If you’re considering building a home in New Zealand and are exploring low-cost options, you’ll have come across terms like prefab, modular, transportable, and kitset. They might be lumped together as low-cost housing options, but they’re each quite different.
To help make sure you find the option that best suits you, we’re breaking down the main build options and exploring why many buyers ultimately lean toward transportable homes.
What Are the Main Home Build Options in NZ?
Modular
Modular homes are constructed in sections, or modules, within a controlled environment. Once the modules are transported to the site, they are assembled on a permanent foundation.
Transportable Homes
Transportable homes are built in an off-site manufacturing facility, then transported to your site as a completed dwelling via road transporter. Once delivered, they’re craned onto prepared foundations and connected to services.
Like modular homes, transportable homes are built in a controlled environment, allowing for faster construction and consistent quality. The key difference is that a transportable home arrives largely complete, with minimal construction required once it reaches your site.
Kitset Homes
Kitset homes are delivered as a package of pre-cut materials for homeowners or builders to assemble on-site. For those with building experience, this can be a great cost-saver. However, kitset homes require significant time and effort to assemble, and the quality of the finished product depends on the skill of the builder.
Prefabricated Homes
Prefabricated homes is an umbrella term that relates to any build where significant portions of the construction happened off-site. Prefab homes includes modular, transportable and kitset homes.
Transportable Home vs Kitset Homes
Although kitset homes can be an attractive financial option at first glance, it doesn’t take much digging to see that they’re not quite as cheap as they first appear. By the time you’ve ‘upgraded’ your flooring, glazing and fittings to something you’d be happy to live with, the cost starts to jump up.
Here are some of the other ways the two options stack-up against each other.
|
Aspect |
Transportable Homes |
Kitset Homes |
|
Build Location |
Built entirely off-site |
Delivered as parts |
|
On-Site Work |
Minimal |
Intensive |
|
Quality Control |
Very high |
Variable |
|
Weather Delay Risk |
Low |
Higher |
|
Labour Requirement |
Low |
Buyer-dependent |
|
Warranty / Guarantees |
Typically robust |
Variable |
Read more about the many reasons clients choose transportable homes, or learn about the delivery process for our homes constructed in a controlled environment.
Why Many Buyers Choose Transportable Homes
When it comes to building a home in New Zealand, you want predictability. But with the weather, labour challenges and material shortages, it’s rare that a builder can give you any certainty. At Ezyline, it’s different.
Because our transportable homes are made indoors, scheduling is more reliable, and site disruption is shorter. We can bulk purchase and store our materials on-site, and our team work on the same projects day in, day out. That gives us accountability and a high degree of skill in creating our homes.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Choosing the right construction method depends on budget, location, time availability, and how involved you want to be in the build process.
If you’re confident in managing trades and overseeing on-site construction, a kitset home may appeal. If you prefer a more managed, build completed in a controlled environment with minimal on-site disruption, a transportable home may be the better fit.
If you’d like to do more research, download our Transportable Homes Buyer’s Guide or why not book a visit to one of our show homes.
Ready to get started? Browse our full range of transportable house plans or explore homes available now.
Summary:
Not all prefab homes are created equal. This blog clearly explains the differences between modular, transportable, kitset, and prefabricated homes, helping you understand which building method best suits your lifestyle, budget, and land.
Check out some more helpful blogs below
Can I Have a Granny Flat on my Property in NZ? Rules, Options & Benefits
One of the most common questions that comes through our inbox is “can I have a granny flat on my property?” And while the answer is usually yes, it will always depend on your site, how the home is built, and your council. What’s allowed in one part...
5 Ways Affordable Transportable Homes Save Time and Money
More and more people are looking for affordable transportable homes in NZ due to rising build costs, longer waits, and uncertainty around what a finished home will actually cost. Offsite construction is changing the way we build homes. Below are five...
Modern Transportable Homes Made for New Zealand Living
Modern transportable homes have come a long way in recent years. What were once seen as something purely functional are now among the most in-demand housing options in New Zealand. At Ezyline Homes, we specialise in architectural transportable homes...
Keep up-to-date with what’s happening at Ezyline Homes, as well as relevant industry news.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between an Ezyline home and a tiny home/pod home?
Tiny/pod homes are typically much smaller in size. They are typically constructed of panels of various types including polystyrene and metal skin panels. They have a distinct shipping container look to them. Ezyline homes start at 50m² and are more traditional in their design.
How does a prefab/prebuilt or modular home differ from a traditionally constructed home that is built onsite?
Prefab/prebuilt or modular homes differ from traditionally constructed homes because they are constructed in an offsite manufacturing facility and then transported to your site either fully assembled, in sections or modules, or as a kit so that it is then assembled on your site.
Depending on the type of prefab/prebuilt or modular homes you chose, many of the same materials are used in construction of the home as one built onsite.
Prefab/prebuilt or modular homes often have a timber floor construction. Traditionally constructed homes are built onsite from the ground up and often with a concrete foundation and concrete floor slab.
Find out more about the various prefabricated construction methods in our recent blog.
Can you help with tight, steep difficult sections?
Yes, with our trusted network of professionals we can view the site and give our recommendations.
Ready to take the next step?
Stay in the loop
Keep up to date with what’s happening at Ezyline Homes
Buying a transportable home is a big decision. Whether it’s for your main residence, a holiday retreat, worker accommodation, or a secondary dwelling, there are several moving parts to consider beyond just the floor plan.
If you’ve been researching what to look for when buying a transportable home, this is our checklist to help you make an informed choice.
Site Suitability & Access
Before falling in love with a layout, start by investigating whether your site is suitable for a transportable build. Rural and urban sites present different challenges. Narrow driveways, tight turning circles, overhead power lines, or limited access can all influence delivery.
An early site assessment gives your transportable home builder a chance to determine if there are any restrictions to the type of home that will work for your property.
Learn more about what’s involved in the transport and installation phase in our Transportable Homes Delivery Process.
Build Quality, Materials & NZ Compliance
Transportable homes have to comply with the New Zealand Building Code, just like any other residential build. That includes things like structural durability, insulation standards, moisture management, and seismic considerations.
Builds completed in a controlled environment have advantages because construction happens under predictable conditions, allowing for tighter tolerances and greater consistency when installing elements such as insulation and glazing.
When comparing your options, take into account the factors that make for a comfortable home - insulation, glazing, weather performance, and overall longevity of the materials being used.
Read more about how offsite construction improves building outcomes in Why Choose Transportable Homes.
Design Flexibility & Lifestyle Fit
Whether you’re looking for a primary residence, a holiday retreat, or accommodation for workers, considering the right layout based on how you’ll use the home will make the biggest difference to how the property is enjoyed.
Purpose of the home
The intended use of your home significantly influences the features and layout you should prioritise. Here are a few common purposes:
- Additional accommodation for extended family: If the home will serve as extra space for family members, consider their comfort and privacy. Features like multiple bedrooms, a separate bathroom, and a cosy living area can make the space more inviting.
- Holiday home: For a holiday property, prioritise low-maintenance features, easy access to outdoor areas, and amenities that enhance relaxation, such as a deck and outdoor living spaces.
- Worker accommodation: Practicality and durability are key for worker housing. Ensure the home is equipped with sufficient amenities, durable materials, and adequate space for comfortable living.
- Granny flat: Usability and preparing for the future are key considerations. If the person using the home is advanced in years, we can prepare the home by making doors flush entry, putting timber in the walls for future grab rails and making doorways wider for future wheelchair access.
The size of the Home
The number of bedrooms is a fundamental consideration when selecting a transportable home. Think about your current and future needs. If you have a growing family or anticipate hosting guests, opting for additional bedrooms can provide comfort and flexibility.
Bathrooms are another important factor, particularly in homes with multiple occupants. A second bathroom can be a game-changer, reducing morning rush hour stress and providing privacy.
The flow of the home
Customising the orientation of your floorplan to suit your needs goes a long way in helping to make your transportable home tick all the boxes when a standard floor plan doesn’t quite fit the bill.
Whether you’re looking to prioritise open plan living, need plenty of accommodation for all the extended family, or storage is top on your list, considering a floor plan which is tailored to include all the amenities you need is an important consideration to ensure your transportable home fits your lifestyle for years to come.
To explore layouts, view all our transportable house plans or if you want to skip the wait, browse our range of transportable homes available now.
The Build & Delivery Process
One of the biggest differences between a traditional build and a transportable home is where the work happens.
Instead of months of on-site activity, your home is constructed in a controlled environment before being transported and installed on prepared foundations. Timelines can vary depending on a few different factors, but these builds allow more certainty in scheduling and are less likely to run over.
While many transportable, modular, prefab, and kitset homes come in a range of sizes and orientations, often a more customised approach is necessary to achieve the perfect layout for your needs.
Check out the top things to consider when choosing the perfect transportable home for you:
Purpose of the home
The intended use of your home significantly influences the features and layout you should prioritise. Here are a few common purposes:
Additional accommodation for extended family: If the home will serve as extra space for family members, consider their comfort and privacy. Features like multiple bedrooms, a separate bathroom, and a cosy living area can make the space more inviting.
Holiday home: For a holiday property, prioritise low-maintenance features, easy access to outdoor areas, and amenities that enhance relaxation, such as a deck and outdoor living spaces.
Worker accommodation: Practicality and durability are key for worker housing. Ensure the home is equipped with sufficient amenities, durable materials, and adequate space for comfortable living.
Granny flat: Usability and preparing for the future are key considerations. If the person using the home is advanced in years, we can prepare the home by making doors flush entry, putting timber in the walls for future grab rails and making doorways wider for future wheelchair access.
Number of bedrooms
The number of bedrooms is a fundamental consideration when selecting a transportable home. Think about your current and future needs. If you have a growing family or anticipate hosting guests, opting for additional bedrooms can provide comfort and flexibility. Even if the home is intended as a holiday retreat or worker accommodation, having extra rooms can enhance privacy and convenience.
Number of bathrooms
Bathrooms are another important factor, particularly in homes with multiple occupants. A second bathroom can be a game-changer, reducing morning rush hour stress and providing privacy. Consider the number of people who will use the home regularly and whether additional bathrooms are necessary to meet their needs.
Separate laundry area
A dedicated laundry area is a practical feature that many overlook. A separate laundry room can help keep the rest of the home organised and clutter-free. Whether you're washing beach towels from a day at the holiday home or uniforms in a worker accommodation setting, a designated laundry space adds convenience and functionality.
Customisable layouts
The ability to pick your preferred finishes including paint colours, floor coverings, joinery, and appliances is an easy way to help make your transportable home feel like your own. Customising the orientation of your floorplan to suit your needs goes a long way in helping to make your transportable home tick all the boxes when a standard floor plan doesn’t quite fit the bill.
Whether you’re looking to prioritise open plan living, need plenty of accommodation for all the extended family, or storage is top on your list, considering a floor plan which is tailored to include all the amenities you need is an important consideration to ensure your transportable home fits your lifestyle for years to come.
Living area size
The living area is the heart of any home, where family and friends gather to relax and socialise. The size of the living area should align with your lifestyle and how you plan to use the space. For those who love entertaining, a larger living area may be ideal. Conversely, if the home is a secondary residence or for temporary use, a more compact living space might suffice with the extra floor plan used for additional bedrooms or storage.
Kitchen and dining area
The kitchen and dining area are crucial spaces for daily living. Consider the size and layout of the kitchen, especially if you enjoy cooking. A well-designed kitchen with ample counter space, storage, and modern appliances can make meal preparation a pleasure. The dining area should comfortably accommodate the number of people you expect to dine regularly.
Storage space
Lack of storage is often a pain point in any home. Evaluate the available storage options, including closets, cabinets, and potential external storage like sheds or garages. Ample storage helps keep the home organised and clutter-free, contributing to a more pleasant living environment.
Keen to find out more? Check out our full range of standard floor plans here or get in touch to chat with our friendly team about how we can help bring your transportable home to life.