A container home budget breakdown, line by line

A budget is only useful if it is complete and kept up to date. Here is a structure you can copy into a spreadsheet and fill in with local quotes.

The sections

1. Land and site preparation. Survey, clearing, levelling, access.
2. Container and delivery. Purchase, transport, crane or lift.
3. Foundation. Piers, slab or pad, plus drainage.
4. Structure and openings. Cutting, reinforcement, windows, doors.
5. Insulation and cladding. Walls, roof, floor.
6. Utilities. Water, sewer or septic, electrics, heating, internet.
7. Interior. Floors, walls, kitchen, bathroom, furniture.
8. Fees and approvals. Permits, surveys, inspections.
9. Contingency. About ten percent for surprises.

Keep it honest

Record the source of every number, whether it is a quote, a supplier list or an estimate. Update the sheet every time a quote changes, so you can see the real total at any point.

Use a model to fill the gaps

The cost calculator builds a house from your choices and gives an estimate by section, which gives you a first draft to replace line by line with real quotes.

When you change the layout, the UnedPod configurator updates the estimate, so the budget stays in step with the design.