Frequently Asked Questions

A modular home is a dwelling built off-site in a factory environment and then transported to your property. Unlike traditional homes built entirely on-site, modular homes are constructed in controlled conditions and delivered as complete units. This results in faster build times, consistent quality control, and reduced construction waste. Capsul's homes are built from scratch — not retrofitted shipping containers — and are certified as permanent Class 1A dwellings under the Australian Building Code.

Yes. Every residential Capsul unit is designed and certified to meet the requirements of a Class 1A dwelling under the National Construction Code (NCC). This is the same classification as a traditionally built house. They are permanent structures — not caravans, not relocatable dwellings — and they're treated the same as a conventional home by councils, insurers, and lenders.

From your first conversation with us to moving in typically takes 6–9 months. Council approval is usually the longest step at 8–12 weeks depending on your state. Factory manufacturing (10–14 weeks) runs concurrently with approval where possible. Delivery and installation is usually completed in 1–2 days.

Yes. While our standard models come with set floor plans, we offer customisation options including exterior finishes, internal materials, kitchen layouts, flooring choices, and upgrades. Fully custom builds are also available — contact us to discuss your requirements.

Yes. Our homes can be configured for fully off-grid living with solar panels, battery storage, rainwater harvesting, and eco-septic systems. This is particularly popular for rural and acreage properties. Discuss your requirements at the design stage.

Granny flats have folding side panels that extend outward on-site, nearly doubling the internal floor area. This makes them ideal for tight-access properties. Designer homes have a fixed footprint — what you see in the specs is exactly what arrives. They're simpler, faster to install, and generally more affordable for a given floor area.

We offer 6m and 12m granny flats, 6m and 12m designer homes, and the Capsul Space Home. The 12m granny flat delivers approximately 55–75 m² when fully expanded. Custom sizing is available — contact us if standard sizes don't suit.

Yes — this is one of our most common use cases. Our units are certified Class 1A dwellings suitable for use as secondary dwellings (granny flats) in most states. NSW allows secondary dwellings up to 60m² under a simplified complying development pathway. Other states have different rules — we'll advise you on the best option.

All residential units include: fully insulated steel frame, internal wall linings, flooring, ceiling, double-glazed windows and doors, pre-wired electrical with switchboard, pre-plumbed bathroom with toilet, shower and vanity, kitchen with benchtop, sink and cabinetry, and external weatherproofing. Appliances are available as upgrades. We provide a full inclusions schedule before you sign.

In almost all cases, yes. Any modular home used as a permanent dwelling requires council approval — whether it's a primary residence, granny flat, or investment property. The risk of building without approval is severe — fines, forced removal, inability to insure, and difficulties selling. Don't skip this step.

Our $3,000 flat-fee service covers: preliminary site assessment, engineering and architectural drawings, NatHERS 7-star energy rating, application preparation and submission, liaison with council, management of all correspondence, and coordination of inspections. Government fees are additional.

Varies by state: CDC in NSW 4–8 weeks, DA in NSW 8–14 weeks, building permit in VIC 6–10 weeks, DA in QLD 10–16 weeks, DA in SA 8–12 weeks, building permit in WA 6–12 weeks. We begin manufacturing concurrently where possible.

If we are unable to achieve council approval for your site, we refund your deposit in full. We have a 100% council approval success rate — this guarantee has never been invoked — but we include it as a commitment to our work.

Residential units start from approximately A$60,000 for a 6m Granny Flat up to A$160,000+ for the Capsul Space Home. The 12m Granny Flat — our most popular model — starts from A$70,000. Beyond the unit price, budget for council approvals, foundation/slab, and service connections. We provide a full cost breakdown for your specific site.

Key additional costs: council approval service ($3,000 to Capsul), government fees ($3,000–$6,000), engineering drawings ($4,000–$8,000), soil test ($1,200–$2,500), energy rating ($800–$1,500), foundation/slab ($8,000–$20,000), and service connections (varies). Total additional costs typically range from $18,000–$40,000.

Yes. Flexible payment plans are available — see our Finance page for current options and terms.

Because our homes are certified Class 1A permanent dwellings, they are eligible for standard home loan products with most Australian lenders. This is a significant advantage over uncertified structures. Speak with your bank or mortgage broker.

Your home is transported on a standard flatbed truck. A crane lifts it onto your prepared foundation. For granny flats, the wings are unfolded and locked on-site. Most installs are complete in a single day.

You'll need: a prepared foundation (concrete slab or steel piers), clear access for a flatbed truck and crane (typically 3.5m wide and 4.5m high), and a clear landing zone. We provide detailed site preparation requirements as part of our documentation.

Service connections are made by licensed trades you engage locally. Your home arrives with pre-installed connection points. A licensed plumber connects water and waste; a licensed electrician connects mains power. Typically completed within 1–2 days of placement.

Yes — we deliver Australia-wide including rural and regional areas. Additional transport costs apply for remote locations. We provide a delivery cost estimate as part of your overall quote.

All units achieve a minimum NatHERS 7-star energy rating as required by the NCC. They are comfortable in both Australian summers and winters without excessive heating or cooling. The insulation performance exceeds the minimum in most cases.

10-year structural warranty covering the steel frame and primary structure. 2-year workmanship warranty on internal finishes, electrical, and plumbing. All work is certified by licensed tradespeople with statutory warranties.

Yes. Because Capsul homes are certified Class 1A dwellings with all required approvals and occupancy certificates, they are insurable as standard residential buildings with most major Australian insurers.

A council-approved, certified secondary dwelling typically adds 20–30% to a property's value according to Australian property research. Because Capsul homes are fully certificated Class 1A dwellings, they are counted as genuine improvements to your property title — not temporary structures.