Connecting utilities to a container home: water, power and gas

Utilities are the hidden part of a container home budget. Connecting to the mains is often simpler than building off-grid, but it still needs approval and careful planning.

Water

Ask the water company for a connection quote and the size of the supply. A new connection can take weeks, so start early.

Power

Check the existing supply and the cost of a new service. Plan the consumer unit and the main cable route before the box is placed.

Gas

Gas needs a qualified installer and a safe route. Many container homes use electric heating or a heat pump instead.

Internet

Steel walls block radio signals. Plan a cable route or a mesh network before the walls are closed.

Plan the routes

Keep the services on one side of the house, so the runs are short and the service trenches are simple.

See the guide to plumbing and electrical for the inside work, and plan the service layout in the UnedPod configurator.