Costs of ALHO modular construction

Information on price per square metre, price guarantee and planning costs

If the pure investment costs of constructing a modular building are considered, they are comparable with those for a conventionally constructed building. Depending on use and interior fittings, however, prices can vary considerably. The price range for ALHO office buildings for example, is between €1,300 and €2,000 net per square metre of gross floor area. If you have a specific requirement, please ask about the costs. Since modular construction is an industrial production process, the costs of ALHO modular buildings can be more reliably calculated than is possible for conventional building, and a price guarantee can be given. In addition, there are various financial advantages to choosing modular construction over conventional building methods and which can be of benefit to owners and developers in both the public and private sectors. Find out more here.

What are the planning costs like in comparison with a conventional building?

Thanks to the seamless organisation of the planning process, tried and tested technical details and standardised manufacturing processes, clear savings can be made in terms of planning costs.

What are the manufacturing costs of modular construction like in comparison with conventional building methods?

The costs of constructing a modular building are on a par with the costs for a conventionally built one, or can sometimes be lower. However, because production in the "room factory" does not depend on weather conditions, ALHO can build all year round and thus complete the building as much as 70% faster. Firstly, this shortens the financing period, and shorter financing periods have a positive effect on the interest payable. Secondly, the property can be handed over and rented more quickly, and so revenues start to flow in sooner. In addition, with its certified processes and constant monitoring, modular construction is synonymous with quality. If we bear in mind that the "number one factor" in driving up costs on site is the repair of defects, modular construction simply offers investors security – in terms of technology, time and money.

What price security does modular construction offer?

In modular construction, the necessary raw materials and equipment in the precise sizes are determined on the basis of subassemblies and parts lists, thus guaranteeing price security.

From what size (surface area) does a modular construction start to become financially viable?

The economic viability of modular construction lies in the series manufacture of constantly recurring, consistent units. Engineering costs are incurred for "setting up" a series of this type, and these may vary slightly depending on the complexity of the project. The consequence of this is that constructing a building using modular construction only becomes financially viable if a certain number of units and corresponding gross floor area are required. As a rule of thumb, the minimum size can be quoted as being around 500 m2 gross floor area.

How can life cycle costs be rated for a modular building?

Modular buildings have intrinsic advantages over conventional structures when it comes to sustainability and life cycle costs. LCC analyses are carried out to determine the overall costs that a building causes during its entire life cycle. Seen overall, over the entire life cycle of structures built using ALHO modular construction methods, the building's lifecycle costs are 12% lower than with conventional building methods. This has been proved by studies carried out by a recognised certification office using a number of completed projects.

What is the resale value of a modular building?

If properly repaired and maintained, there is no difference from a conventionally constructed building.

What is the lifespan of modular buildings in comparison with those built conventionally?

As solid as "brick by brick" building but much faster and more flexible – modular buildings are intended for permanent use and are thus a sustainable, innovative alternative to solid buildings. ALHO modular buildings are well engineered, architecturally appealing and offer excellent energy properties. They are therefore no different from conventionally constructed buildings when it comes to durability and meet the same requirements technically and legally.

Can the way a modular building is used be changed?

The ALHO construction system with its self-supporting steel structural frame and non-loadbearing walls means that it is possible to adapt modular buildings very flexibly to changing requirements. Walls can be moved or opened up, and extra storeys added or extensions built in a very short time. The modular construction system is therefore extremely flexible and ideal for subsequent alterations and changes of use.

Can a modular building be dismantled?

One of the greatest advantages of ALHO modular construction methods lies in the three-dimensional structure of the individual modules and the ability to link these to each other mechanically – and also to separate them again. These factors mean that the building can be removed, dismantled and reassembled easily ("mobile real estate"). Furthermore, the structural elements of each module can be 100% recycled, thus making a positive contribution to the reuse and recycling of building materials.

What are the amortisation periods for modular construction?

The amortisation times are similar to those for a conventionally constructed building. Arrangements that are different from this can only be agreed with the local tax authority.

Does ALHO also offer the option of leasing the buildings?

Apart from buying the buildings, ALHO also offers the option of leasing the modular buildings in cooperation with various finance companies if required.