As housing affordability continues to challenge Canadians, more homebuyers are exploring innovative alternatives that combine cost savings with efficiency. Modular housing is gaining momentum across the country as a quicker, more streamlined solution to meet Canada’s growing demand for affordable homes.
This guide answers the most common questions about modular homes and modular living—your next move could be just a few paragraphs away.
Jump Ahead:
-
What is a modular home?
-
Are modular homes the future of homeownership in Canada?
-
What benefits do modular homes offer?
-
How well do modular homes withstand Canadian weather?
-
Can modular homes be built as multi-unit or apartment buildings?
-
Are modular homes available in rural areas?
-
Why are modular homes becoming popular in Nova Scotia?
What is a modular home?
A modular home is a type of prefabricated housing constructed in sections, or modules, inside a factory. These modules are then transported to a prepared site and assembled on a permanent foundation. Key components like electrical wiring, plumbing, insulation, and interior finishes are completed beforehand, which significantly reduces the time spent building on-site. For example, Nova Scotia-based company Smart Casa can produce 7,000 units in just one month.
Unlike mobile homes, modular homes are permanent structures and look virtually identical to traditional houses.
Are modular homes the future of Canadian homeownership?
The federal government’s new housing plan heavily supports modular homes, which can cut construction time by up to 50%, reduce costs by around 20%, and lower emissions by as much as 22% compared to conventional building methods.
Prime Minister Mark Carney recently said, “The way we build homes needs to change, and refabricated and modular housing are the future.”
Various federal and provincial programs, such as CMHC’s Housing Accelerator Fund, offer incentives and streamlined permits to encourage municipalities to adopt modular construction, speeding up the delivery of affordable and sustainable housing nationwide.
What are the benefits of modular homes?
Modular homes simplify the building process by minimizing weather delays and material shortages, offering buyers a clearer picture of costs and timelines.
Ian Garrity, president of Built Prefab, explains that modular homes provide more predictable pricing thanks to fixed factory costs and customizable standard designs. Many buyers appreciate the all-in-one service—from design and engineering to permitting and installation—that companies like Built Prefab provide.
How do modular homes hold up in Canadian weather?
Modular homes meet the same building codes as traditional homes and are engineered to withstand Canada’s diverse climate—whether that’s heavy snow, strong winds, or freezing temperatures. Canadian companies like ProFab build modular homes ranging from modern cottages to two-storey houses and apartment buildings designed for long-term durability.
Can modular homes be built as multi-unit or apartment-style buildings?
Yes! Modular construction is highly adaptable and supports multi-level single-family homes and multi-unit dwellings. Toronto’s Modular Housing Initiative has successfully created several apartment-style modular buildings to provide housing for vulnerable populations, proving that modular construction can be a long-term housing solution.
Are modular homes available in rural areas?
Absolutely. Modular homes are ideal for rural locations where land is more affordable and zoning is flexible. They offer an accessible way for buyers—especially younger generations—to build affordable homes on family land or outside costly urban markets.
Why are modular homes becoming popular in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia is embracing modular homes for their speed, affordability, and ability to address urgent housing needs. This year, the province announced 51 new modular public housing units across 12 communities—its largest public housing investment in 30 years. Modular homes are also supporting essential workers, with 12 homes near hospitals in Port Hawkesbury and Guysborough built to provide housing for healthcare professionals in areas with limited options.