Modular Homes & Planning Law Changes You Need to Know
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
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.
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.
Even if planning permission is waived, local authorities will still enforce compliance with building standards and safety regulations to ensure quality housing.
A well constructed modular home can be installed in as little as a few weeks, compared to the months required for traditional builds.
The impact on property values depends on several factors, including the quality of the build, location, and infrastructure capacity. Some concerns exist about increased density, particularly in suburban areas like Naas, Swords, or Ennis.
The Irish government is reviewing the Croí Cónaithe grant, which may offer financial assistance for refurbishing vacant properties, potentially including modular housing options.
Modular homes are typically faster to construct, more affordable, and can be built to high energy efficient standards. They provide a flexible and sustainable solution for housing in Ireland’s growing market.