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As construction cost continue to increase, we must find more affordable solutions. One Solution may be modular construction. What is modular construction? Modular construction is a process in which a building is constructed off-site, under controlled plant conditions, using the same materials and designing to the same codes and standards as conventionally built facilities. It has been proved that building units offsite reduced the construction time in half.

Constructing units offsite allow for more quality control and more flexible when it comes to design. While the units are being prepared off-site, the building structure is also being simultaneously built. So once the units are complete, they can be transported and inserted directly into the structure. This also can be a solution to unexpected natural weather conditions which can extremely delay construction. Remember time is money. This faster a building is constructed, they faster you can satisfy your investors and lease up space.

According to the Modular Building Institute (http://www.modular.org/), building modular is Greener, Faster, and Smarter. Due to the factor-controlled process, waste is greatly reduced, and air quality is improved.  Modular buildings can be disassembled, and the modules relocated or refurbished for new use, reducing the demand for raw materials and minimizing the amount of energy expended to create a building to meet the new need. Structurally, modular buildings are generally stronger because each module is engineered to independently withstand the rigors of transportation and craning onto foundations, which creates more resiliency than on-site building construction. Not only is modular construction budget friendly it is also environmental friendly.

Assuming that the standard opportunity cost is 10% annually, and using industry standards for loans, modular construction will cut the construction time in half and save around 15% of the total development cost.   

For more information about modular construction in the Caribbean contact us at AG&T