Modular Building Solutions

Exploring Modular Construction

Modular construction is an increasingly popular building method that involves manufacturing building components in a factory-controlled environment and transporting them to the construction site for final assembly. This approach is widely used in commercial and residential projects because it offers significant advantages over traditional onsite construction, such as greater efficiency, faster build times, and enhanced quality control.

One of the key reasons for the rise in demand for modular construction is the ability to construct modules in parallel with site preparation, significantly reducing overall project timelines. The controlled factory environment also allows for more precise construction, minimizing defects and reducing delays caused by weather, which are common in onsite methods. Modular construction is also a more sustainable option, as it generates less waste and optimizes energy use.

Unlike manufactured buildings with a permanent chassis for relocation, modular buildings are constructed on permanent foundations, making them more durable and stable. This construction method is ideal for sectors such as healthcare, hospitality, education, and housing, where speed, cost-efficiency, and quality are increasingly prioritized.

Benefits of Modular Construction

Modular construction offers several clear benefits over traditional onsite methods:

• Faster Timelines: Modules are built simultaneously with site preparation, cutting project time by up to 50%.
• Improved Quality Control: The factory setting ensures consistent quality and reduces defects.
• Cost Efficiency: Lower onsite labor hours and reduced material waste lead to lower overall costs.
• Safety: Factory conditions provide safer working environments for construction teams.
• Flexibility: Modular designs are highly customizable to meet a range of project needs.
• Sustainability: Modular construction reduces waste and supports eco-friendly building practices.

Modular Building Compliance, Inspections, and Certification Services

Intertek plays a critical role in helping manufacturers meet the necessary codes and regulations for modular buildings in the U.S. and Canada. As a well-recognized registered Modular Third-Party Inspection Agency (TPIA), Intertek supports manufacturers through every phase of the modular construction process. This includes conducting plan reviews, performing factory and onsite inspections, certifying that the materials and components meet necessary standards, and issuing certification labels and state insignias to verify compliance with applicable building codes. As well as modular consulting for start-ups, existing manufactures, developers and general contractors to navigate the various rules and regulations of the state modular programs and building codes.

Intertek holds the necessary accreditations throughout North America for all modular building projects.

In the U.S., manufacturers must comply with state-specific regulations, which often require working with a registered Modular TPIA. Intertek is well-versed the codes and regulations for each state, guiding manufacturers through complex requirements to ensure compliance.

In Canada, modular buildings must adhere to the standards set by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC). Intertek assists manufacturers by conducting factory assessments, reviewing design documents, and performing compliance audits to ensure that all aspects of the project align with Canadian regulatory standards.

Modular Building Types Supported

Intertek provides modular certification services for a wide range of building types, including:

• Commercial Structures: Hotels, medical facilities, dormitories, and office buildings.
• Residential Buildings: Single-family homes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and manufactured homes.
• Recreational Vehicles: Tiny homes, park model trailers, and RVs.
• Industrial and Specialty Structures: Food trucks, relocatable structures, and modular restroom assemblies.

U.S. Certification Standards for Modular Building

In the U.S., Intertek provides certifications under:

• ANSI A119.5: Certification for Park Model Recreational Vehicles (PMRVs)
• State-Specific Rules: Compliance with individual state modular construction rules and regulations Intertek is registered in all states with modular programs.

Canadian Certification Standards for Modular Building

Intertek is accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) to certify modular buildings to the following standards:

• CSA A277: Procedure for Certification of Prefabricated Buildings, Modules, and Panels
• Alberta Building Code Part 10: Relocatable Industrial Accommodation
• CSA Z240 MH Series-16: Manufactured Homes
• CSA Z240 RV Series-14: Includes NFPA1192, Recreational Vehicles
• CAN/CSA Z241 Series-18: Park Model Trailers
• CAN/UL 2600: Standard for Relocatable Buildings

Intertek's Warnock Hersey (WH-ETL) mark, widely recognized in Canada, signifies that products meet the necessary safety and performance standards, providing confidence to builders, inspectors, and end users.

Global Reach and Expertise

With over 1,000 laboratories and offices worldwide, Intertek offers extensive resources to support modular building projects. Our expert inspectors and engineers work closely with manufacturers to ensure compliance with quality standards, providing support from project inception to final certification.