Mobile offices and modular
relocatable building
A relocatable building is a partly or fully assembled building made in a factory that is designed to be reused and moved to different sites. The Modular Building Institute notes that it is not fixed permanently to real estate and follows applicable codes and installation guidelines.
Why it matters
People also call them portable buildings. They serve schools, construction site offices, medical clinics, sales centers and other temporary space needs. The key point is the plan to move them again. Rules differ from permanent buildings, and states may have their own rules for them. A common mistake is to think relocatable means no code review. These buildings still must meet applicable codes or state rules and be installed to the maker's guidelines. Ask the provider about permits, foundations and utility hookups. Operators can offer them as rentals or sales, so check state and local licensing rules.
Definition source: modular.org
Related terms
modular building
A modular building is a building made in sections called modules in a factory, then moved to the site and joined together. The Modular Building Institute says the work happens in controlled plant conditions, uses the same codes and standards as site-built buildings, and takes about half the time.
permanent modular construction
Permanent modular construction, or PMC, is a way to build whole buildings in a factory as modules and join them on site, as a lasting part of the property. The Modular Building Institute describes it as an off-site, lean manufacturing method for single or multi-story buildings.
portable classroom
A portable classroom is a classroom building that can be moved and placed on a school site. It is usually a relocatable building made in a factory. Schools use it for extra space when enrollment grows or when a building is being renovated or rebuilt.
site office
A site office is a temporary office placed on a work site, most often a construction site. It gives managers, supervisors and inspectors a dry place to work, hold meetings and keep plans and records. It may be a trailer, a container office or a modular unit.
mobile office
A mobile office is an office space that is built and finished off site, then delivered ready to use. It can be a converted storage container, a trailer or a modular building. Standard units typically come with insulation, finished walls, flooring, electrical wiring, lighting, a personnel door and a window.
office trailer
An office trailer is a mobile office built on a trailer-type frame and delivered by truck. It has an office layout inside, with electrical, heating and cooling. Providers rent it for construction sites, events and other uses when space is needed fast.
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