Off-site construction lead times: from order to installed building
The programme is short because manufacture and site preparation happen at the same time. From design sign-off, factory production can be complete in as little as 7-8 weeks, and installation on site is usually a matter of days rather than months. While the modules are being built, you prepare the base and bring services to the position.
Why it is faster
Factory work is not weather-dependent, trades are not waiting on each other in sequence, and the building is finished internally before it leaves. On site, the heavy work is a single lift.
What can extend it
Complex two-storey configurations, extensive fit-out, bespoke glazing or cladding, and anything waiting on planning. Site readiness is the most common delay — if the base is not cured and level on the delivery date, the lift has to be rebooked.
Running site works in parallel
Use the manufacturing window for groundworks: base, drainage runs, water and power to the module position, and access for the delivery vehicle and crane. Done properly, the building is usable within days of arrival.
Typical timeline from enquiry to handover
| Stage | Typical duration | What happens |
|---|---|---|
| Design and quote | Days | Configure the building online or with us, agree the specification and receive a fixed quote. |
| Order and sign-off | Days | Deposit, final drawings and specification confirmed before manufacture starts. |
| Factory manufacture | From 7-8 weeks | Chassis, structure, insulation, glazing, electrics and internal finishes completed off-site. |
| Site preparation | Runs in parallel | Base, drainage, services and access prepared while the modules are being built. |
| Delivery and craning | 1 day (typical) | Modules delivered by lorry and lifted into final position. |
| Joining, connection and handover | A few days | Modules joined, services connected, snagging and handover. |
Indicative figures based on the current module price. Site works, groundworks and service connections are quoted separately.
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Lead Times — common questions
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