How much does a modular home cost in Ireland?

Modular homes in Ireland from New Chapter Homes start from approximately €45,000 depending on the model and specification. Our Chapter One, Two and Three series offer different sizes and finishes to suit a range of budgets.

Do modular homes in Ireland need planning permission?

Planning requirements depend on the proposed use, size, location and circumstances of the property. A permanent modular home used as a dwelling generally requires planning permission. Certain developments may qualify for an exemption, subject to all applicable conditions. Customers should obtain site-specific advice from their local authority or planning professional.

How long does it take to build a modular home?

Modular homes from New Chapter Homes are typically manufactured within 8–12 weeks (indicative) and installed on site within a few days, depending on groundworks, site preparation, planning, and specification.

Do you supply garden rooms in Kildare?

Yes, New Chapter Homes is based in Naas, Co. Kildare and supplies garden rooms, garden studios and modular buildings across Kildare and nationwide.

Can I finance a modular home in Ireland?

Indicative finance options may be available from €200 per week (subject to status and lender approval) through our finance partners, with deposits from 10% and indicative approval timelines of 48–72 hours. Self-employed applicants are welcome. First-time buyers may also qualify for the Help-to-Buy grant (subject to scheme eligibility). Indicative prices cover the turnkey building, delivery and installation; site-specific works are assessed after the site survey and identified separately in the written quotation.

What is the difference between a modular home and a prefab home in Ireland?

Modular homes and prefab homes are often used interchangeably in Ireland. Both are built in a factory and transported to site. New Chapter modular homes are fully fitted — including kitchen, bathroom, plumbing, and electrical fit-out — and are built to the same building regulations (BCAR, Part L, Part B) as traditional homes, with an A-rated BER certificate.

Are modular homes energy efficient in Ireland?

New Chapter modular homes are designed for A-rated BER performance, with premium insulation, heat pump heating, and airtight construction. Actual BER performance depends on final specification and is confirmed on completion. Actual energy savings depend on usage, specification and the property being compared.

Can I put a modular home in my garden in Ireland?

Planning requirements depend on the proposed use, size, location and circumstances of the property. A permanent modular home used as a dwelling generally requires planning permission. Certain smaller garden structures may qualify for an exemption, subject to all applicable conditions. Customers should obtain site-specific advice from their local authority or planning professional.

How long does it take to install a modular home in Ireland?

A New Chapter modular home is typically manufactured in our factory in approximately 8–12 weeks (indicative), then installed on your site within 1–2 days using a crane. The total timeline from order to handover is typically 10–16 weeks (indicative), depending on site preparation, planning, and specification.

Do Irish banks give mortgages on modular homes?

Modular homes built to building regulations and appropriately certified may be mortgageable, subject to individual lender criteria. We can advise on what lenders typically require and introduce you to finance partners. Indicative finance options may also be available from €200/week (subject to status and lender approval).

Do you build modular homes in Kildare?

Yes. New Chapter Homes is based in Naas, County Kildare, and builds luxury modular homes, sustainable garden pods and affordable housing across all of Kildare — including Naas, Newbridge, Kildare Town, Maynooth, Athy, Leixlip, Celbridge, Kilcock, Kilcullen, Johnstown, Sallins, Clane and everywhere in between. Our display village in Johnstown, Naas is coming soon — register your interest to be notified when it opens.

Do you build modular homes in Dublin?

Yes. New Chapter Homes designs, manufactures and installs luxury modular homes, sustainable garden pods and affordable housing across Dublin city and county — including Rathcoole, Clondalkin, Tallaght, Lucan, Blanchardstown, Swords, Malahide, Howth, Dun Laoghaire, Blackrock, Stillorgan, Dundrum, Rathfarnham, Castleknock, Clontarf and every area in between. A-rated, fully fitted homes from €45,000 (€200/week), installed in 6–10 weeks.

How much does a modular home cost in Kildare or Dublin?

Modular homes in Kildare and Dublin start from €45,000 for our Chapter Three compact home, with our two-bedroom Chapter One from €80,000 and bespoke family homes from €220,000. Indicative prices cover the fully fitted interior, delivery, installation, and certification. Indicative finance options may be available from €200/week (subject to status). Foundations, groundworks, service connections and other site-specific works are assessed after the site survey and identified separately in the written quotation.

Can I get a garden room in Kildare or Dublin without planning permission?

Planning requirements depend on the proposed use, size, location and circumstances of the property. Certain garden rooms and smaller modular units may qualify for an exemption, subject to all applicable conditions. Customers should obtain site-specific advice from their local authority or planning professional. New Chapter Homes can advise on your specific site in Kildare or Dublin — contact us for a free assessment.

Modular Home Planning Permission vs Exemption Ireland: Which Do You Need?

The Planning Permission vs Exemption Decision

The most common question we get: "Do I need planning permission for my modular home?" The answer depends on what you're building, where, and how you'll use it. Here's a clear decision tree.

Step 1: Is It a Separate Dwelling?

If yes — a self-contained home with its own kitchen, bathroom, and independent living — you need full planning permission. There is no exemption for a standalone second dwelling on a residential plot, regardless of size.

If no — it's an extension, garden room, or pod ancillary to the main house — go to Step 2.

Step 2: Where Is It Located?

Rear of the house — potentially exempt (continue to Step 3).
Front or side of the house — requires planning permission (visible from the road).
Rural/agricultural land — may require planning; depends on local area plan zoning.

Step 3: How Big Is It?

Up to 25m² (garden pod/room at rear) — exempt, subject to conditions.
25m² to 40m² (rear extension) — exempt under the 2025 expanded rules, if combined with existing extensions the total doesn't exceed 40m².
Over 40m² — requires planning permission.

Step 4: How Will You Use It?

Domestic ancillary use (home office, gym, studio, family living) — eligible for exemption.
Independent dwelling (separate rental, self-contained living) — requires planning permission.
Short-term letting (Airbnb) — requires planning permission for tourist use, especially in Rent Pressure Zones.

Step 5: Is Your Property in a Protected Area?

Protected structure — all works require planning and potentially a Section 5 declaration.
Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) — stricter rules; planning likely required.
Normal residential zoning — standard exemptions apply.

Quick Reference Table

| Scenario | Permission Needed? | |---|---| | 25m² garden office at rear | No (exempt) | | 38m² garden pod at rear | Yes (over 25m²) | | 40m² rear kitchen extension | No (exempt) | | Detached granny flat with kitchen | Yes (separate dwelling) | | Pod for Airbnb in Dublin | Yes (tourist use in RPZ) | | Chapter Three compact home on rural plot | Yes (new dwelling) |

The 14-Day Notification

For certain exempt structures, you must notify your local authority 14 days before starting. This is not a planning application — it's a notification. If the council doesn't object within 14 days, you proceed. We handle this for you.

How We Help

At New Chapter Homes, our free site assessment gives you a written, definitive answer on whether your project is exempt or needs planning. If planning is required, we manage the entire application — drawings, documentation, submission, and liaison with the local authority.

Book your free site survey today.