Business Central March 2024

| 103 T T Sue Russell Modular buildings save time, money Designs range from 1 bedroom to 4 bedroom options. If clients want a scullery, or walk-in wardrobe these elements can be incorporated. EasyBuild - Hawke’s Bay BUILDING James Rosenberg, Director of EasyBuild Hawke’s Bay, says since establishing the Licensee 2 ½ years ago, business has been good. He says, choosing to become part of the network made sense for lots of reasons. “The founders who established EasyBuild about nine years ago now had a lot of experience working in the modular construction space. “They could see the direct benefits having a house’s components assembled in controlled situations then trucked to its buiding site to be constructed saved time and money,” James explains. That efficiency begins with having all the materials on EasyBuild’s factory in Upper Hutt, ready. There is no waiting for any part of the home to arrive, meaning that when the home is pre-assembled, that build time-frame is reduced by many week from a standard build situation. “There’s also very little waste at the factory as the building units are of a standard size. For larger homes more units are supplied.” Asked how the building process begins from the enquirers perspective James says the conversation begins with supplying potential new clients with a comprehensive information pack and organising a visit to the building site. “We ask questions like where are they at with geotech etc. All our designs are known by Council and pre-approved so this saves time with the consenting pathway. We’ve built up a very good relationship with Council.” And while the component modules are of fixed size, James says the business has introduced the option for clients to individualise aspects of the floor plan. He says they have discovered that clients do want the ability to mark their own stamp on the chosen design a little bit. “Things like moving windows and sliding doors to suit the sun, putting extensions on and making rooms a little bit bigger. Our homes come in 1200mm increments and are 7.5m wide so designs.” Designs range from 1 bedroom to 4 bedroom options. If clients want a scullery, or walk-in wardrobe these elements can be incorporated. The key, Daniel says, is to have those conversations early so that changes can be made at the start of the assembly process at the factory. James recalls the very positive start for EasyBuild Hawke’ Bay when they were engaged in a project for a church group of 12 homes in Flaxmere. “That really tested our capabilities and we learned a great deal that helped us off to a very solid start.” EasyBuild Hawke’s Bay employs three builders and two apprentices which James says has been a very positive development. “It means we’re not reliant on engaging contractors, who may have several other projects on the go.” A very capable project manager has also been engaged recently, who oversees the builders and subbies. EasyBuild Hawke’s Bay has a Show Home in Hastings, based on the popular Thames design. The home has three good size bedrooms, open plan kitchen and dining and an extended living area. “Our raised ceilings always give the feel of plenty of space as well.” Asked how long a build traditionally takes James say once the foundations have been attended to the process of assembly and construction takes 12-14 weeks. “We know that communication is really key throughout the build process and we provide our clients consistently with weekly updates and photos.” In Wairoa, EasyBuild Hawke’s Bay have been engaged to build a kindergarten, based on the Amberley design. And in an exciting further development EasyBuild Hawke’s Bay has just received its pre-qualification for Kainga Ora for community housing projects. “EasyBuild has designed some two-storey duplexes to widen our reach into that sector which is very positive.” Carrying really high energy efficiency and healthy home standards is designed into each EasyBuild home’s construction methodology, giving owners the benefit of long-term energy savings in a home they know is supporting their health and wellbeing. “All our designs are known by Council and pre-approved so this saves time with the consenting pathway.” RJ Plumbing & Drainage ltd Licensed Certifying Plumber and Drainlayer WE CAN REPAIR CRACKED & BROKEN PIPES WITHOUT DIGGING! Call Ryan 0274 989 562 or 06 870 3186 Email whittaker.ryan@actrix.co.nz www.rjplumbinganddrainage.co.nz ALL PLUMBING REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE AND ALTERATIONS Phone: 06-870-0050 | Email: info@weedooloos.co.nz | www.weedooloos.co.nz

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