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PROPERTY

ontainer homes take simplistic
living, creative design and
affordable building to the next
Clevel. It is not surprising then that
the trend for modular houses is booming.

However, before launching headlong into
your own container build, some preparation
is required. Here are the top tips for every
stage of building your dream container
home.
GET COUNCIL APPROVAL
Most councils are open to innovative types
of building and recognise that alternative
housing adds diversity to their precinct. If
you haven’t yet purchased the land, do
thorough research on property restrictions
before you buy. Have detailed plans drawn
up professionally and develop a good
relationship with your council; this will save
you time and help you to deal with any
hiccups along the way.
PURCHASE YOUR CONTAINER
Buy your container through a reputable
company. They will help you choose the
right kind of container for your needs, as appropriate documentation with a container holiday homes make use of only one
well as ensure the container is structurally reference number. container; however, you may need more
sound, waterproof and has not transported space for daily living if you decide to
anything dangerous. A SARS/customs EDI release (SAD500) is eventually retire there.
very important as it gives assurance that the
There are two types of shipping containers: container is legally in South Africa, has not Be clear on the vision for your home to
one that has reinforced square tubing been used for any illegal activities, and/or is simplify the whole building process. A great
side rails and one that has flat bar side not part of any investigation. way to do this is to look at showhouses.
rails. Buying the reinforced side railed They will give you a good physical indication
container will ensure that your home DESIGN YOUR HOME of how effective use of space can transform
is more structurally sound, and you To achieve amazing results with your a container, as well as provide inspiration
don’t have to pay extra building costs to modular build, simplicity and great for your design.
reinforce the container sides later. Using design are key. The more ambitious the
a refrigerated container is ideal as they designs are, the more time-consuming Get a professional to draw your design
already have insulation, although these and resource-intensive it will be to in 3D. It will give you and your builder a
containers present different challenges. build. When deciding on how many better feel for the space. A professional
Most purchases require an upfront payment containers to use, make sure you have designer will be able to arrange your living
after you have seen the container and considered how much space you need to space in the best possible way for your
decided to buy it. Make sure you receive the live comfortably on a daily basis. Many needs.
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