Site preparation for a container home: clearing, levelling and drainage

Site preparation is the least exciting part of a container home, and the part most likely to cause expensive problems if it is rushed.

Clearing

Remove trees, roots, rubble and topsoil from the footprint and the access route. Trees near the house may affect the foundation and must be assessed.

Levelling

A level base makes placement easier and keeps the box square. Check the levels with a laser or a long spirit level before the foundation is built.

Drainage

Water must run away from the house. Use swales, a french drain or a gravel layer, and keep the downpipes away from the foundation.

Access

The delivery truck and crane need a firm route. Plan a temporary track or a crane pad on soft ground.

Services

Mark the trench routes for water, sewer and power before the foundation starts.

See the foundation guide for the next step, and place the house on the lot in the UnedPod configurator.