Prefab housing - another key to open affordability lock

Prefab housing - another key to open affordability lock

Thursday 27 Jun 2024

The use of prefab and modular construction can help to improve the capacity issues the industry is currently facing, HIA Managing Director, Jocelyn Martin said. Ms Martin was speaking at a government roundtable designed to consider the barriers and opportunities for prefab housing, hosted by Minister Ed Husic, in Melbourne earlier this month.

Participants at the roundtable recognised that there were still a number of barriers preventing prefab and modular construction reaching its potential.

Addressing gaps in the National Construction Code is critical, as is a clearer understanding of the chain of custody in the manufacturing and building process, financing and business models and insurance,” Ms Martin said. “A better understanding of terminology is also needed. There are many options for construction from modular floor and wall panels through to fully completed homes.

“Often people see prefab and modular as being an inferior housing option, but there are a range of builders doing some beautiful work, producing amazing homes. In addition, the use of modular components has the potential to improve energy efficiency and apply innovative manufacturing techniques,” added Ms Martin.

Participants at the roundtable committed to investigate improvements to contractual terms and financing models and to address the shortcomings of the Code as quickly as possible.

Source & image credit: Housing Industry Association

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