Modular Homes & Planning Law Changes You Need to Know
Modular Homes & Planning Law Changes You Need to Know Home Choosing a Glamping Pod Manufacturer A Builder’s Perspective on Relaxing the Law on Modular Homes added to their house or Garden As a builder in the modular home industry in Ireland, I’ve seen firsthand how the demand for practical, well-built, and affordable housing options has grown over the years. Many families come to us looking for a way to house aging parents, support adult children struggling with high rents, or simply make better use of their property. The Irish government’s recent decision to relax planning laws on modular homes could make a big difference for homeowners, builders, and the housing market as a whole. When it actually happens. Addressing the Housing Crisis Ireland has been facing a severe housing shortage, with rising rents, limited housing stock, and an affordability crisis. In response, the government is taking a major step by proposing the relaxing pof current lanning laws to allow homeowners to add modular homes to their properties more easily. This move is part of a broader strategy to increase housing supply without unnecessary delays, particularly for families who need quick, practical solutions. This change was a major topic of discussion on Joe Duffy’s Liveline programme on RTÉ Radio 1, where callers shared their experiences with the housing crisis and the potential for modular homes to offer a fast and realistic solution (RTÉ Radio 1, 2025). What’s Changing for Homeowners and Builders? Currently, homeowners can build extensions of up to 40 square metres without needing planning permission, but detached modular homes of the same size require approval. The government is now considering removing this requirement, allowing homeowners to install detached modular units on their property without a lengthy approval process. From a builder’s perspective, this change opens up new opportunities. Modular construction is faster, more cost-effective, and built to last. With fewer planning restrictions, builders can help homeowners access high-quality living spaces much sooner. Why the Change Matters The move to relax planning laws is about more than just convenience—it’s a response to Ireland’s chronic lack of housing. With house prices continuing to climb, many people are struggling to find suitable accommodation. Allowing modular homes without unnecessary planning delays gives families flexible options for housing their relatives or providing affordable rental spaces. The government is also revising the Croí Cónaithe grant, which supports the refurbishment of vacant homes. Making this grant easier to access could further increase housing supply, particularly in rural areas. What This Means for Homeowners Easier Housing Solutions. Homeowners would be able to install modular homes without excessive planning red tape. Affordability. Compared to traditional construction, modular homes are more affordable. Faster Construction. A modular home can be installed within weeks, compared to the months needed for traditional builds. Building Standards Still Apply. While planning permission may no longer be required, local authorities will continue to enforce strict building regulations (RTÉ News, 2025). More Support for Vacant Homes. Easier access to grants will encourage homeowners to refurbish and rent out vacant properties, contributing to overall housing availability. The Debate – A Builder’s Take Why This Could Be a Good Step Forward A Practical Solution to the Housing Shortage. Modular homes can help reduce pressure on the housing market quickly. Keeping Families Together. Homeowners can provide housing for relatives while maintaining their own space. Boost for the Construction Industry. With these changes, builders can meet demand more efficiently, delivering well designed modular homes. Environmentally Friendly. Many modular homes use sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs, making them a modern, practical choice. Concerns and Considerations Ensuring High Standards. Not all modular homes are built to the same level of quality. Proper regulation is needed to prevent substandard units. Potential for Exploitation. Some fear that landlords could misuse this law, installing low-quality modular homes and renting them out at high rates (The Sun, 2025). Pressure on Local Infrastructure. Increased housing density in certain areas could strain roads, utilities, and public services. Impact on Property Values. Some homeowners worry about how modular home expansion could affect neighbourhood aesthetics and property prices. What’s Next? The Builder’s Role The Irish government is launching a public consultation to gather input from homeowners, builders, and community groups. As builders, we see this as an opportunity to advocate for well-regulated, high-quality modular housing that meets both family needs and broader housing goals. At Berko Pod Systems, we have years of experience in designing and building durable modular homes. These new planning law changes could make it easier and faster for homeowners to get access to safe, well built, and comfortable modular housing. Final Thoughts From a builder’s perspective, this change could be a major shift in Ireland’s housing landscape, but only if it is implemented correctly. Cutting corners won’t solve the housing crisis. Instead, we need to ensure that modular homes are built to high standards, remain affordable, and contribute positively to communities. If you’re considering adding a modular home to your property, contact us today. We can guide you through your options, regulatory considerations, and how to create a space that meets your needs. With careful planning and a focus on quality, modular homes can be part of the long-term solution, offering affordable, practical, and well-built housing for years to come. Frequently Asked Questions about Modular Homes & Planning Law Changes in Ireland Where in Ireland will these new planning laws apply? The proposed changes will apply across Ireland, including major urban areas like Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway, as well as rural counties such as Donegal, Kerry, and Mayo. Local authorities will still oversee compliance with building regulations. Can I build a modular home in my garden without planning permission? Under the proposed changes, homeowners may be able to install a modular home up to 40 square metres without requiring planning permission. However, larger structures would still need approval. Will I need approval from my local council? Even if planning permission is waived, local authorities will still enforce compliance with building standards and
Garden Room Planning Permission: Your Guide on Rules in Northern Ireland
Garden Room Planning Permission: Your Guide on Rules in Northern Ireland Home Choosing a Glamping Pod Manufacturer Expanding your living space with a garden room is a fantastic idea, whether you are in urban Belfast or suburban Bangor or even wayout in the wilds on the Antrim coast. But before you start, it’s crucial to understand the rules and regulations concerning the exact planning permission requirements in Northern Ireland. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the specifics of garden room construction, including size limits and exemptions from NI planning permission, providing you with the essential information you need. What Size Can You Build Without Planning Permission in Northern Ireland? When it comes to building a garden room in Northern Ireland, size does matter. There are regulations in place that allow for specific types of development without requiring formal planning permission. These are known as “permitted development rights.” Here are the key criteria: Size Limitation: Generally, your garden room should not exceed 30 square meters (approximately 322 square feet). However, it’s vital to verify the exact regulations with your local planning authority, as size limitations can vary depending on your location, whether it is on the densely populated Lisburn Road or in rural Magherafelt. Height Restrictions: Height is another critical factor. Your garden room should not surpass a maximum eaves height of 2.5 metres (around 8.2 feet) and an overall height (to the ridge of the roof) of 4 metres (approximately 13.1 feet in old fashioned metric measurement). Location and Use: The garden room should be positioned to the rear or side of your property and should not extend beyond the principal elevation (typically the front of your house). It should primarily serve as an extension for domestic purposes and not as a separate dwelling. Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: If your property resides within a conservation area or involves a listed building, additional rules may apply, potentially necessitating planning permission. Local Variations: Keep in mind that local planning authorities may have their unique variations or restrictions, so it’s advisable to check with your local authority for precise guidance. Are Garden Rooms Exempt from Planning Permission? In many cases, garden rooms can be exempt from planning permission when they adhere to the criteria outlined above. However, this exemption comes with specific conditions and limitations. As regulations and policies can change over time, it’s prudent to consult your local planning department or a professional architect or a planning consultant before commencing your garden room project. By understanding the regulations surrounding garden room construction and planning permission in Northern Ireland, you can embark on your Garden Room project confidently, knowing you’re in compliance with local NI council or borough requirements. Garden rooms offer an excellent opportunity to enhance your living space and connect with your garden, and with the right knowledge, you can create a beautiful and functional addition to your property. Adding a garden room to your Northern Ireland property can be a rewarding endeavor. To ensure a smooth and compliant building process, familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations governing garden room construction. Remember that staying informed and consulting with local authorities or experts is essential, as regulations may evolve. With the right approach, you can turn your garden room dreams into reality. Whether nestled in the vibrancy of Lisburn Road or the serenity of rural Magherafelt, understanding size limits, height restrictions, and permitted development rights is key. Begin your journey toward the garden room of your dreams by seeking guidance from local planning authorities, architects, or planning consultants. Ensure compliance and bring your vision to life confidently – kickstart your garden room project now and seamlessly enhance your property. Your ideal space is just a step away –Schedule a consultation with a local planning expert today! Talk to Berko Pod Systems Ltd. and initiate your plans with confidence today! PS we do not give legal advice so do talk to the right authority.
Choosing A Glamping Pod Manufacturer
Choosing a Glamping Pod Manufacturer in Ireland Home Choosing a Glamping Pod Manufacturer Top-Quality Glamping Pods from Leading Glamping Pod Manufacturer in Ireland Are you eager to bring your outdoor excursions to an even higher level? Look no further! As the premier glamping pod manufacturer in Ireland, we’re dedicated to crafting innovative and luxurious glamping pods that redefine the camping experience in every Irish county like Galway, Limerick, Cavan, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time glamper, our top-quality glamping pods are designed to provide unparalleled comfort, style, and convenience amidst nature’s beauty. Experience the Luxury of Glamping Pods: Indulge in the ultimate camping luxury with our exquisite range of glamping pods. From cosy couples’ retreats to spacious family accommodations, our glamping pods are meticulously designed to cater to all your needs and preferences. Featuring premium amenities, stylish interiors, and breathtaking views, our glamping pods offer the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Why Choose Our Glamping Pods: Superior Quality: Our glamping pods are crafted using the highest quality materials and cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, ensuring durability, longevity, and unmatched performance in any outdoor environment. Customisation Options: We understand that every glamper has unique preferences and requirements. That’s why we offer a wide range of customisation options, allowing you to personalise your glamping pod to suit your specific needs and style preferences. Eco-Friendly Design: As responsible stewards of the environment, we prioritise sustainability in our manufacturing process. Our glamping pods are designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising comfort and luxury. Seamless Buying Experience: Buying a glamping pod has never been easier! Our streamlined purchasing process ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish, with expert guidance and support every step of the way. Transform Your Outdoor Adventures: Say goodbye to traditional camping hassles and hello to the luxury of glamping! Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure in Galway, Limerick, Cavan, and other Irish counties, our glamping pods offer the perfect retreat for reconnecting with nature while enjoying all the comforts of home. Don’t settle for ordinary camping experiences. Elevate your outdoor adventures with our premium glamping pods today! Contact us to learn more about our products, customisation options, and purchasing process. Experience the ultimate in outdoor luxury with the leading glamping pod manufacturer in Ireland. Berko Pod Systems are a Glamping Pod Manufacturer in Ireland. We design and manufacture luxury glamping pods for the leisure industry in Ireland and the UK. Such as the rustic Canadian-style glamping lodge. Luxurious materials and amenities abound in this custom-built glamping pod. One can envision sitting outside on the beautiful teak composite decking, sipping a glass of pinot noir beside a crackling wood burner. After enjoying nature’s tranquillity, your guests can retreat inside. Here they are greeted with all the comforts of modern amenities for an ultimate glamping experience. Our high-end interior finishes make this luxury glamping pod truly a home-from-home. Stargaze the night away by looking out through the bedroom skylight! Starting a Glamping Business? Turn Your Glamping Business Dreams Into A Reality, Firstly, starting or expanding your glamping business takes a great deal of careful planning. Luckily, we respect and understand the huge investment which our clients undertake. Therefore, it is our goal to make your investment in our glamping pods as rewarding as possible. Our high-end luxury glamping pods offer top-quality finishes and designs. Therefore, our glamping lodges offer a higher than average bed night rate. Thus, this will speed up your return on investment. The Future Is Bright for Glamping Pod Ventures | Setting up a Glamping Business The future looks bright for the glamping business. Out of 1400 people surveyed, 50% intended to stay in a local holiday park. Not surprisingly, a third specifically said they wanted to try glamping. As such, it is the ideal time to join this booming industry. These new findings present an ideal business opportunity for country estates, landowners, and farmers looking to maximise their values. Likewise, it is a fantastic opportunity for the hospitality industry to optimise luxury bed space. With the right space, your glamping business can start large or small. By choosing the right business model, one can achieve a return on investment in the first two years. Luxury Lodge The Glamping Industry is Changing Consequently, families, young couples, large parties, and solo travelers all wish to experience a glamping getaway. As a result, the glamping industry is becoming more sophisticated. Now, glampers demand more quality and different accommodation experiences. Fittingly, Berko Pod Systems cater for this growing industry. Stunning Glamping Pod Designs As said above, the glamping industry is quickly evolving. Hotels and landowners want to turn their land into a quick profit. Additionally, they no longer want to invest in costly and time-consuming construction projects. As such, this is the main reason why business opportunists are investing in the glamping industry. Additionally, the industry is calling out for hotel-style accommodation without the hassle of planning. This is where clever design plays a major role in shaping the glamping industry. For this reason, Berko Pod Systems has designed a range of unique and beautiful glamping lodges. Luxury Lodge As can be seen, our luxury glamping lodge encompasses all of the above. Firstly, our glamping lodge is designed to fall within glamping planning guidelines. As such, it is just the right size of 7m x 4m and can be easily transported and moved to another location. Similarly, the interior layout, although compact feels spacious and functional. Through clever design, the glamping lodge includes all the essential amenities for a true glamping experience. Picture this, a beautiful wood grain cream kitchenette with beautiful rose gold handles and a walnut laminate worktop. Imagine, retreating inside with a warm cup of coffee. Here you will have a seating area similar to the standard of a deluxe hotel suite. Continuing, we will now walk to the back bedroom where you are greeted with a beautiful kingsize bed. Not to mention, the cleverly designed
Do Garden Rooms add Value to Your Home?
Do Garden Rooms Add Value to My Home? Home Do Garden Rooms Add Value Will a Garden Room Add Value to My Home? If you have ever considered building your own garden room in Ireland, chances are you have asked yourself this question. In theory, the decision to build your own garden room should be an easy one based on the multitude of benefits they offer. However, as with any decision which relates to home improvements, there are a whole array of things that we first must consider. However, when compared to a traditional home extension, garden rooms offer a unique, versatile, and most importantly cost-effective alternative. How Much Value Will a Garden Room Add to My Home? Depending on how you intend to utilize the added space offered by garden rooms, there is potentially endless scope for the value your new room will add to your property. No matter what you require additional space for, investing in your own garden pod is usually the answer. Adding Floor Space To Your Home Who doesn’t want more floor space? Adding a garden room to your home is an excellent way of increasing the floor space available to you, and, with more space comes more value should you decide to sell. If you require more space for a home office, home gym, or even just added space to entertain friends and family, then a garden room is more than likely the perfect solution for you. As well as providing you with extra floor space, a garden pod also provides you with a secluded spot, away from the main house. This is ideal if you are seeking a quiet place to work, away from the hustle and bustle. By creating more space away from your home itself, you also avoid any of the potential complications surrounding planning permission. In contrast to a purpose-built kitchen extension or bathroom, the long-term purpose of your new garden room does not have to remain set in stone and has the potential to adapt to your changing needs and interests. This in itself adds additional value to your property as it does not restrict the functionality of your new room. Stand Out From The Crowd Another factor which undoubtedly contributes towards the appeal of garden rooms is how unique they are. Despite their ever growing popularity, not everyone has their own garden room. Should you find yourself in a position where you are selling your home, having an adaptable space, detached from the main house will set your property apart from the rest of the pack. Our range of pods is designed with exactly this in mind. The quality of our build ensures that not only will Berko Pod Systems garden rooms provide longevity, but we also guarantee adaptability to meet your changing needs, or indeed the needs of the next inhabitant of your home. Our commitment to quality means that not only will our work provide a beautiful addition to your home, but one which will stand the test of time as a unique, lasting home improvement. To learn more about the range of designs we currently offer, why not take a moment to browse our range? You can also request a free brochure by following this link.
Should I Buy a Garden Room in Ireland?
Why Should I Build A Garden Room? Garden rooms are quickly becoming one of the most popular ways of adding additional space to your home. Due to their versatility, longevity, and cost-effectiveness, many homeowners these days are opting to build a garden room as opposed to a conventional house extension. The increase in the popularity of garden pods is also not a trend unique to Ireland, with the Irish Times recently reporting a surge in popularity on an international scale. Factors such as the amount of time we have spent at home as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic have resulted in many of us identifying areas of potential improvement in our homes, in addition to the need for additional space. What will you use your garden room for? Part of the allure of garden rooms is down to their versatility. Here at Berko Pod Systems, we carefully design each of our pods in order to facilitate a number of uses and functions. From home gyms to home cinemas, or simply just a space to entertain friends and family, our garden pods provide the perfect environment to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. What you will use your garden pod for will also influence where in your garden it is placed in relation to direct sunlight. For instance, if you require a home office setup requiring natural light, you may need to position your pod as such. What’s more, using steel to manufacture our garden pods, ensures they will last for years to come, allowing you to adjust the primary use of your garden room over time. What is your budget? Another important aspect to consider when building your new garden pod is your budget. Here at Berko Pod Systems, we offer various different styles of pods, all suited to different needs and requirements. So no matter what your budget or what you will be using your garden room for, you can rest assured that we will have the perfect pod to fit your budget and needs. Buying a garden room in Ireland is one of the best possible ways in which to not only utilise the space currently available to you but also to add long-term value to your home. When buying a garden room you are essentially buying opportunity. The perfect space to relax and unwind, or even work in peace, free from any unwanted distractions. If you would like to learn more about our range of bespoke garden rooms or learn more about the perfect pod for you, feel free to browse our brochure or get in touch using the links below. Our Brochure Contact Us
What are the long-term benefits of a garden room?
Are Garden Rooms Worth it? The costs of owning a garden room may seem like a large initial investment. However, the long-term benefits of owning a garden room far outweigh the scope of the initial investment. Once your pod has been carefully built, the opportunities regarding how you can transform this new space are almost endless. In addition, given the current property market here in Ireland, a garden pod will provide additional space at a far lower price point than looking for a new home! On the contrary, our garden rooms provide you with additional living space as a cheaper alternative to the cost of purchasing a new home. How Long Do Garden Rooms Last? What’s more, here at Berko Pod Systems, our garden rooms are built using nothing but the finest materials available to us. By using light gauge structural steel, we can ensure that your pod will be as durable as possible for years to come. This structural solidity also means that our garden rooms are as versatile as possible. For instance, due to the fact that our pods are built using steel you are given multiple opportunities regarding external cladding such as timber, brick, or stone. This once again highlights the huge amount of flexibility on offer regarding garden rooms and garden pods. Another benefit of this sturdy construction is that your pod can easily be easily transformed into a home gym, allowing you to exercise at home in Derry or Donegal no matter the weather for years to come in . Working from home? Having your own garden room, or garden pod as they are also known, also provides you with not only added living space, but also a blank canvas. If you work from home, your new garden room or pod can easily provide you with the perfect long-term alternative to a long daily commute. Garden rooms also provide a tranquil, quiet space which allows you to focus on your work free from any distractions which may be unavoidable in the house itself. Can you use Garden Rooms all year round? As we mentioned earlier, the fact that here at Berko Pod Systems we construct our garden pods using light gauge structural steel and high-quality weather membranes means that not only is your pod exceptionally durable, but exceptionally well insulated. This is particularly important given the climate we experience here in Ireland. No matter what you decide to use your new garden room for, whether it be a home gym, space to relax with your family, or indeed a home office, we can guarantee your garden room will be usable all year round, regardless of the weather. If you are interested in purchasing your very own garden room, why not get in touch with us here at Berko Pods Systems? Our team will be more than happy to help guide you through any questions you may have related to garden rooms and how we can help. Browse Our Range Contact Us
Garden Rooms – Choosing the perfect pod for you
Garden Rooms – Choosing The Perfect Garden Room Garden Rooms offer an unbeatable level of versatility when it comes to maximising the space available to us. Not only does investing in a bespoke garden room allow you to create a unique additional room on your property, but also helps to increase the value of your property should you wish to sell in the future. Whether it is creating a new home office space or a home cinema, your garden room should be designed with you in mind, ensuring you enjoy your new space and find time to do the things you love. However, there are a few things you must first consider when deciding on the perfect garden room for you. How much space is available? Firstly, you must decide how much space you have available to you. Here at Berko Pod Systems , our garden rooms are available in a variety of sizes, each designed to suit your specific needs and requirements. Bearing this in mind, perhaps try measuring one of the indoor rooms in your home in order to ascertain how much garden space may be required to fulfill your needs. Despite what you may think, there is no garden too small! Above all else, your garden room should provide a private sanctuary to relax in or indeed work from home in. In order to do this, first we must ensure the optimum amount of space is utilized. What is your budget? In a similar way to size, garden rooms are available at various prices, depending on their size or specifications. For instance, our range of classic pods begins at €10,000, while our range of deluxe garden pods begins at €21,000. Despite this, each pod currently offered by Berko Pod Systems comes fitted with various features such as double-glazed windows to ensure warmth, Kingspan insulation, and internal flooring of your choice. As a result, no matter your budget, you can be sure to find the perfect pod for your requirements. What will your new room be used for? Perhaps the most important thing to consider when deciding which is the best garden room for you is to decide its primary use. Whether it is for the perfect work-from-home office, free from distractions, or a home cinema or home gym, intended to offer seclusion, allowing you to focus on pursuing your passions in peace, it is hugely important to consider the primary use for your garden room when deciding on which model is the perfect match for you. If you are looking for extra space to enjoy with your family, or even to accommodate overnight guests, then this should also influence your decision, perhaps leading you toward one of our larger pods. Having said this, your garden rooms should be versatile. There is nothing to suggest that what functions as a home office by day cannot transform into a home cinema in the evening, perfect for unwinding with family and friends. If you are considering investing in your very own garden room, why not browse our current range or contact a member of our team using the links below? Browse Our Range Contact Us
The Rise of Working from Home
Remote Working is Here to Stay Garden pods offer endless possibilities and can easily turn underutilised garden space into your very own home cinema, gym, or even office. Since the onset of the Coronavirus Pandemic or Covid-19 as it is widely known, there has been a dramatic global shift in how we spend our working days. With many of us have seen our offices and workspaces close at very short notice last Spring, a vast majority of the workforce now work remotely from their own homes. This is not a phenomenon unique to Ireland however, with workforces the world over swapping their high-rise office for their spare room at home. There are numerous benefits that come along with this shift, and as well as this, the Government in Ireland has recently passed a law giving employees the right to request to work from home. This signifies the reality that working from home is here to stay. No more commutes, less impulse buying overpriced sandwiches at lunchtime, extra time in bed, the list goes on and on. Despite this, there are also a few challenges we have all been faced with while making the shift to working from home effectively. Firstly, we need somewhere quiet where we are pretty sure we won’t be disturbed. Unfortunately, for many of us, this is not as easy as it may appear, especially if you have young kids! Should I invest in a home office? While many people have enjoyed the transition to remote working, in order to help us to remain productive at work, it is vital that our workspace is perfectly suited to our own needs, personality, and working requirements. This is where we come in. Here at Berko Pod Systems, the garden rooms for sale on our site provide not only a space perfectly suited to remote working but also provides the opportunity to maintain the separation between your work life and home life. As well as this, our garden pods provide a peaceful, secluded setting that allows us to fully dedicate ourselves to our work, completely free of outside distractions. Having your very own home office pod allows you to create your perfect working environment, guaranteeing you peace and quiet, as well as the chance to create the perfect work-from-home setup. Home offices are also an open book from a design standpoint and offer you a blank canvas when it comes to your own personal office layout. The beauty of this is that once the working day finishes, your pod becomes a place to private place to relax or entertain guests. There has never been a time more suited to investing in a home office. Our range of bespoke garden pods is perfectly suited to your specific work-from-home needs. To browse our range, simply click the link below, or to get in touch with a member of staff. Browse Our Range of Garden Pods