The FAQ guide to new living concepts
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about your dream compact home.
In our FAQ section we have put together a compilation of the most frequently asked questions about mini and modular houses for you. Whether it’s about the basics, legal aspects or the selection of environmentally friendly building materials or the importance of energy efficiency certificates – we have the answers for you. If you have any further questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact us.
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FAQ
The FAQs for a comprehensive insight into minimalist living: Discover all the answers on the topic of modular and sustainable construction.
- Building materials
- Building technology
- Climate protection
- Construction law
- Cost
- Energy efficiency
- Environmental protection
- Financing
- Funding
- Generally
- Lifestyle
- Miscellaneous
- Planning
- Renovation
Yes, there are special financing options for sustainable modular homes that aim for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient construction methods. Some banks and financial institutions offer special “green loans” or subsidies for sustainable construction projects that offer more favorable conditions and attractive interest rates. It is worth asking the bank about these special programs.
Building materials such as special insulation materials, sound insulation panels and acoustic ceiling constructions contribute to effective sound insulation in modular houses. These materials reduce noise levels both from outside and inside the house and improve living comfort by creating a quiet and pleasant atmosphere.
As a builder, you can play an important role in ensuring that your construction project is implemented as sustainably and environmentally friendly as possible. Here are some steps you can take:
Planning: Careful planning is the key to a sustainable construction project. Before you begin construction, you should create a detailed concept that sets out your goals for the project and includes the use of environmentally friendly materials and methods.
Energy efficiency: Energy-efficient construction is an important aspect of a sustainable construction project. You should ensure that your home is designed to make the best use of natural resources such as light and heat. For example, you can install large windows that capture daylight and thus reduce energy consumption.
Sustainable materials: Environmentally friendly materials such as recycled building materials and wood from sustainable forestry should be preferred. These materials not only reduce the environmental footprint, but also provide better indoor air quality.
Energy efficient appliances: Energy efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers, should be selected to reduce energy consumption in the home.
Monitoring construction progress: You should ensure that your construction company adheres to agreed environmental standards and uses environmentally friendly methods. It can also be helpful to regularly monitor the progress of the construction project and provide feedback to ensure it is moving in the desired direction.
Waste Reduction: Reducing waste is another important factor for a sustainable construction project. It can be helpful to use recyclable materials and carefully plan waste disposal to ensure as little waste as possible is created.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your construction project is as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible.
To check the condition of the insulation during renovation, a specialist can carry out an inspection and, if necessary, use thermography analyzes to make heat losses and weak points in the insulation visible. It’s important to look out for any signs of moisture or mold that could be affecting the insulation. If necessary, the insulation should be renewed or improved to optimize energy consumption.
There are various measures you can take to make a home more energy efficient. One possibility, for example, is to improve thermal insulation to reduce heat loss. Insulating materials such as mineral wool, hemp or cellulose can be used for this. It can also be worthwhile to replace the windows with an energy-efficient version. Another starting point is optimizing the heating system, for example by installing a modern condensing boiler or a heat pump. The use of renewable energies such as solar thermal energy or photovoltaics can also help reduce energy requirements. There are also various funding programs that can financially support the use of energy-efficient measures. Advice from an energy consultant or architect can help you find the right measures for your own house.
One way to make a property more sustainable is to use solar systems and renewable energy sources. There are various options for this:
Photovoltaic systems:
Photovoltaic systems convert sunlight into electricity. Solar modules are installed on the roof of the property, which feed the electricity generated directly into the grid or store it in batteries. By installing photovoltaic systems, builders can not only save on electricity costs, but also make a contribution to climate protection.
Solar thermal systems:
A solar thermal system uses the sun’s energy to prepare hot water or support heating. The heat from the sun is used to heat water, which is then used in the heating system or in a hot water tank. The use of solar thermal systems can help reduce energy consumption and thus also CO2 emissions.
Heat pumps:
A heat pump uses environmental heat from the earth, water or air to generate heating heat. The heat is absorbed by a heat exchanger using a refrigerant in a closed circuit and then brought to a higher temperature level using a pump. A heat pump can be used for both space heating and hot water preparation, making it a sustainable alternative to conventional heating systems.
Cogeneration plants:
A combined heat and power plant (CHP) uses the energy used to generate electricity and heat at the same time. It can be operated with different fuels, for example biogas or natural gas. A CHP can be used in both single- and multi-family homes and therefore represents a sustainable alternative to conventional heating systems.
In order to make a property more sustainable through solar systems and renewable energy sources, it is advisable to seek advice from a specialist. They can check the options on site and recommend an individual solution. There are also funding opportunities that can support implementation.
There are many ways to save energy in the home. Here are some tips that can help you reduce your energy costs while protecting the environment:
Optimize lighting: LED lamps are more energy efficient than conventional light bulbs and can save up to 80% electricity. Also avoid unnecessary light and always turn off your lamps when leaving a room.
Optimize heating: Regular ventilation and sealing of doors and windows can help to keep heat in the house and thus save energy. Even lowering the room temperature by one degree can mean energy savings of around 6%.
Energy-saving appliances: When buying new household appliances, make sure that they are as energy efficient as possible and have a high energy efficiency class.
Washing and rinsing programs: When using washing and rinsing programs, reduce the temperature to the minimum required. Also, do not wash your dishes under running water, but use a washing up tub.
Use energy saving mode: Use energy saving mode on your electronic devices such as computers, televisions or refrigerators to save energy.
Avoid standby mode: Avoid putting your electronic devices in standby mode, as they also consume energy in standby mode. Instead, turn off devices completely.
Use alternative energy sources: Use alternative energy sources such as solar energy to cover your electricity needs and thus save energy.
By implementing these tips, you can not only reduce your energy costs, but also make a contribution to climate protection.
Sustainable renovation means that the focus is on energy-efficient, environmentally friendly and resource-saving construction. There are various measures that can be taken, such as:
Use of ecological and recycled building materials
Reducing energy consumption through improved thermal insulation and the use of renewable energies
Using rainwater to water plants and flush toilets
Avoiding harmful substances during renovation, for example by using non-toxic paints and varnishes
Improving indoor air quality through the use of natural materials and good ventilation
Sustainable renovation not only contributes to environmental protection, but can also save costs in the long term and increase living comfort. However, it is important that the measures are in accordance with local building regulations and the individual needs and possibilities of the renovation property.
To ensure that our buildings remain climate-friendly in the future, we need to take some important steps. Here are some ways this can be achieved:
Regular energy efficiency reviews: Reviewing the energy efficiency of our buildings is an important step in ensuring they continue to be climate friendly. This can be done through regular energy audits and inspections of heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
Use of renewable energies: Another important step is the use of renewable energies such as solar energy or geothermal energy. Installing photovoltaic or solar thermal systems can help reduce energy requirements and minimize CO2 emissions.
Use of sustainable building materials: Sustainable building materials such as wood or recycled materials are more climate-friendly than conventional building materials. Using sustainable building materials helps reduce a building’s carbon footprint.
Maintenance and care: Regular maintenance and care of our buildings is also important to ensure that they remain climate-friendly. This includes regular cleaning, repairs and the replacement of outdated or inefficient systems.
Creating awareness: Creating awareness of the importance of climate protection in the construction sector is also important to ensure that our buildings remain climate-friendly in the future. This can be achieved through training, campaigns and information events.
By implementing these steps, we can ensure that our buildings remain climate-friendly in the future and help minimize the impacts of climate change.
To find out which subsidies are eligible for your construction project, you should use various sources of information. This includes the websites of development banks, government agencies and local building authorities. Advisory services and funding advisors can also help identify suitable funding and facilitate the application process.
Variable interest rates can have both advantages and disadvantages for financing a tiny house. While they may offer lower interest rates initially, there is a risk that interest rates will rise over time, increasing monthly payments. It is important to monitor current interest rates and take possible future interest rate changes into account when planning your financing.
Living in a tiny house promotes a minimalist lifestyle. Less living space forces you to only keep the possessions that are really necessary. This can lead to a reduction in stress and a better quality of life. Many residents report a greater feeling of freedom and satisfaction through conscious reduction and proximity to nature.
Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as a source of energy for buildings. It is a clean and renewable energy source that can help reduce dependence on fossil fuels and protect the environment. The following explains how solar energy is used in buildings:
Photovoltaics: Photovoltaic modules convert sunlight directly into electricity. These modules are made of silicon cells that release electrons when exposed to sunlight. These electrons can be used as electricity. The solar system created can then be used to power buildings. Surplus electricity can usually be fed into the public power grid.
Solar thermal energy: Solar thermal energy is a technology that uses sunlight to heat water or air. The heated liquid can then be used to heat buildings or produce hot water.
Passive solar use: Passive solar use refers to the use of solar energy without technological aids. For example, the sun can be used to illuminate a building through large window fronts or to improve the indoor climate and energy efficiency of a building through the use of solar collectors and special heat storage.
Overall, there are many ways to use solar energy in buildings. Solar energy is not only environmentally friendly, but can also help reduce energy costs and increase independence from fossil fuels. However, investing in solar energy can also come with high costs. It is therefore important to carefully consider which solar technology best suits the specific needs of a building.
The choice of building materials has a significant impact on the environmental impact of a modular house. Environmentally friendly materials that come from sustainable sources and have a low environmental impact contribute to a positive environmental balance. Materials that require less energy to produce and are easily recyclable also help minimize the environmental footprint of the construction project.
The choice of material has a direct impact on the cost of a modular house. Higher-quality materials such as wood or specialty insulation may have higher initial costs, but offer long-term benefits such as better energy efficiency and reduced maintenance. It is important to find a balance between costs and benefits in order to create a durable and economical modular home.
Development costs can vary depending on the location and condition of the property. They usually include connection to the electricity, water and wastewater networks. These costs are often higher in urban areas than in rural areas. If the property is not yet developed, additional work such as laying pipes or setting up your own system for water supply and wastewater disposal must be taken into account.
The costs for a tiny house vary depending on size, features and materials. Typically the prices range between 20,000 and 100,000 euros. This price can be influenced by customization, additional equipment and the choice of property. A detailed cost estimate should include all factors such as transportation and permits.
The cost of insuring a tiny house or modular home varies depending on the value of the house, location and individual risks. As a rule, both building insurance and liability insurance should be taken out. The exact premiums depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the home, where it is built, and the insurance company. It is advisable to compare offers to find the best conditions.
In addition to the purchase price of the actual house, you should also consider the cost of the property if you don’t already own one. Other important items include development costs for water, electricity and sewage, permit and building registration fee costs, transport costs for delivering the house and the costs for the foundation or footprint. There are also expenses for furnishing, equipment, insurance and ongoing maintenance of the house. The operating costs for energy and water should also be budgeted for.
Environmentally friendly insulation materials for tiny houses are materials such as cellulose, hemp or sheep’s wool. These materials are biodegradable, have good insulating properties and contribute to the energy efficiency of the house. Compared to conventional insulation materials, they have a lower environmental impact and are often made from recycled or sustainable sources.
The advantages of a self-sufficient modular house or tiny house lie in its independence from external supply networks, which enables greater freedom and flexibility in living. In addition, the use of renewable energy sources can lead to a reduction in operating costs and a lower environmental impact. Disadvantages include potentially higher initial investments to set up a self-sufficient system, as well as the need for careful planning and maintenance to ensure smooth operation.
Living in a tiny house or modular house offers numerous advantages, including a lower environmental impact due to reduced resource consumption and energy requirements, lower costs for construction, maintenance and operation, greater flexibility in terms of location and mobility, and a minimalist living concept that leads to a more conscious lifestyle can lead. In addition, this type of living promotes a close sense of community and a greater connection to nature.
There are also long-term benefits from building a modular home. In addition to the quick construction time and high flexibility in design, the transportability of a modular house also enables the living space to be easily relocated or expanded. This means you can move your modular home to another location if your living circumstances change. Modern technologies reduce energy consumption and contribute to sustainability, while the possibility of later expansion makes the modular home an adaptable living solution.
The total height of a tiny house is usually a maximum of 4 meters. The width is limited to 2.55 meters to ensure smooth transport on roads. The overall length depends on whether the tiny house is mounted on a trailer. Lengths of up to 12 meters are possible here. The weight can be up to 3.5 t.
When preparing the building site for a modular house, costs for the foundation, earthworks and possible compensation measures must be taken into account. The type of foundation depends on the construction of the modular house. Many modular houses require a solid foundation, while tiny houses on wheels usually only require a small, flat surface. Make sure the building site complies with local regulations and is suitable for the planned house.
To apply for a loan for a modular house, you usually need documents such as proof of income, a detailed financing plan, information about the planned construction project, an exposé of the modular house and any existing offers and contracts. Banks often also require Schufa information and other evidence of your financial situation.
A typical tiny house consultation covers several important aspects. First, your vision and requirements for the tiny house will be discussed in order to develop a tailor-made concept. This includes planning the floor plan, selecting materials and equipment as well as clarifying questions about approval and building regulations. You can also receive information about the costs and the construction process in order to have realistic expectations and avoid any potential stumbling blocks in advance.
A modular home or tiny house is considered “self-sufficient” if it is able to meet its own energy needs and function independently of external electricity or water supply networks. This typically means the building has alternative energy sources such as solar panels or wind generators, and may also have its own water supply and wastewater treatment systems.
Modular homes integrate a variety of energy-efficient technologies, including solar panels to produce your own electricity, heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling, and modern insulation materials that reduce energy consumption. Some modular homes are even designed to be energy self-sufficient by generating and storing their own energy, resulting in reduced operating costs and a positive environmental footprint.
Choosing the right building plot is an important step in promoting sustainable construction. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a building plot:
Location: Choose a location that is well connected to the public transport network to reduce the need for individual transport. A location near public transportation and shops can also improve quality of life.
Soil condition: Inspect the soil for contamination and stability. A stable floor can reduce the need for foundations and increase the lifespan of the building. Contaminants in the soil can also increase the need for expensive remediation measures.
Orientation: The orientation of the property can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency of the building. A building with good orientation can take advantage of solar radiation to reduce heating costs and maximize the use of solar energy.
Landscape and Vegetation: Maintain the natural environment of the property to protect the local flora and fauna. Protecting trees, shrubs, and other plant species can also increase the value of the property.
Water Resources: Pay attention to the availability of water on the property. Rainwater harvesting can reduce the need for costly tap water.
Sustainable Infrastructure: Check the availability of renewable energy resources such as solar energy and wind power near the property. The availability of charging stations for electric cars and public bicycle rental stations can also contribute to promoting sustainable mobility.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that the property you choose has the necessary conditions for sustainable construction.
Financing a tiny house or modular home can be accomplished through a variety of channels, including conventional mortgages, personal loans, specialized financing programs for alternative housing, and government grants. It’s a good idea to explore different options and choose the one that best suits your individual financial needs.
Various financing options can be used to purchase land and a tiny house. This includes the combination of construction loans for the tiny house and classic real estate financing for the property. Some banks also offer combination loans that cover both aspects, or special loans for purchasing land in conjunction with building a house.
There are various subsidies for building a modular house, including government subsidies for energy-efficient construction and sustainable forms of living. These include, for example, funding from the KfW program, which offers loans and grants for environmentally friendly construction projects. It is important to find out about regional funding and special programs for alternative forms of housing.
There are a number of grants for sustainable building offered by government and private organizations. Here are some examples:
KfW funding: The Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) offers various funding programs for energy-efficient and sustainable construction. These include low-interest loans and grants for the construction or renovation of buildings.
BAFA funding: The Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) also offers grants for the energy-efficient renovation of buildings. The funding can be used for measures such as replacing heating systems, installing thermal insulation or optimizing ventilation systems.
State funding: Many federal states have their own funding programs for sustainable construction and energy-efficient renovation. The programs can vary from state to state and should therefore be researched carefully in advance.
EU funding: The European Union offers various funding programs for sustainable construction and environmental protection. These include programs such as LIFE, which provide financial support for environmental and climate projects.
Foundation funding: There are a number of foundations that are committed to sustainable construction and environmental protection and financially support corresponding projects. These include, for example, the WWF Environmental Foundation or the North Rhine-Westphalia Foundation for the Environment and Development.
It is important to note that different funding programs may have different conditions and requirements. Before applying, the relevant guidelines should be carefully checked to ensure that the construction project meets the requirements and the funding can be used.
The Building Energy Act (GEG) 2023 regulates requirements for the energy efficiency of buildings. This is intended to promote the use of renewable energy and minimize the energy consumption of houses and buildings.
The EH55 efficiency standard states that a building only uses 55% of the energy of a GEG reference building. New buildings must therefore be particularly energy efficient, e.g. B. through better thermal insulation, modern heating technology and the use of renewable energies such as solar or heat pump technology.
Modular houses that are permanently inhabited require a building permit in Germany. The responsible building authority will inform you whether the construction of a modular house is permitted for your property. Furthermore, it will be clarified whether the local development plan allows the construction of a modular house.
When building a tiny house, there are various legal requirements that must be met, including building codes, permits, and sometimes specific regulations for mobile homes. It is important to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before construction.
Financing a sustainable construction project can be done in different ways. One option is to apply for funding from KfW Bank or other government institutions. There are various funding programs that relate to different aspects of sustainable building, such as energy efficiency, use of renewable energies or ecological building materials. Another option is to take out a loan from a bank that specializes in sustainable financing. These banks attach particular importance to the sustainability of the construction project and also take these aspects into account when granting loans. It can also make sense to look for investors who are interested in sustainable construction projects and are willing to finance the project. One option, for example, is the crowd investing platform “Green Rocket”, on which investors can specifically support sustainable projects.
To build a tiny house you usually need a building permit. Specific requirements and fees vary by state and locality. In some cases, additional permits are required, especially if the tiny house is to be transported on wheels or if it is a permanent residential structure. It is advisable to contact the local building authority at an early stage to clarify the exact requirements and applicable fees.
Smart home technology can significantly improve the quality of life in modular homes by enabling centralized control of lighting, heating, air conditioning and security systems. These technologies provide convenience, energy savings and increased security through features such as remote access and automated control. The integration of such systems can significantly expand the functionality and living comfort of a modular home.
Construction has a significant impact on the environment, both during the construction phase and during the use of the building. During the construction phase, large amounts of natural resources such as water and energy are required to produce building materials and construct the building. In addition, large amounts of waste and CO2 emissions are generated by the transport of materials and the use of machines and vehicles.
But the use of the building also has an impact on the environment. The operation of heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems consumes large amounts of energy, which leads to high CO2 emissions. Water consumption also plays a role, as drinking water is often used for purposes such as irrigation or toilets, even though this is not necessary.
In addition, buildings can also have a negative impact on the environment if they are not properly designed or constructed. For example, inadequate insulation can lead to high energy losses and therefore higher CO2 emissions. Poor ventilation can lead to mold growth and moisture problems, which in turn can have health effects. A wrong choice of building materials can also have a negative impact on the environment, for example if materials are used that are produced in an environmentally harmful manner or are not recyclable.
It is therefore important that construction is carried out in harmony with the environment by using sustainable construction practices and materials to minimize resource consumption and reduce negative environmental impacts.
The transport costs for a modular house depend on the distance between the production facility and the location of the house as well as on the size and number of modules. There are also transport costs for tiny houses on wheels, which can vary depending on the distance and transport effort.
Modular homes can be built on a variety of foundations, including concrete slabs, strip foundations, or pile or point foundations. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the property and building. A solid foundation ensures stability and longevity of the house.
Current design trends in modular home architecture include minimalist aesthetics, open floor plans, and sustainable materials. The integration of green roofs, smart home technologies and multifunctional furniture is also trendy and reflects modern lifestyles.
The energy efficiency of a modular house or tiny house can be improved through various measures, such as the use of high-quality insulation materials, the installation of energy-efficient windows and doors, and the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar energy or heat pumps.
When renovating a tiny house, measures to improve energy efficiency are particularly important. This includes optimizing insulation, replacing windows and doors, and updating heating and ventilation systems. Checking and, if necessary, replacing the plumbing and electrical installations should also be considered to ensure living comfort and safety.
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is indispensable in the construction planning of modular houses. This software allows manufacturers to create precise and detailed designs. From floor plans to technical drawings to 3D models – CAD supports planning and visualization, which ensures efficient and accurate implementation in the construction of modular houses.
In a nutshell: You can find answers to the most frequently asked questions here
Interesting facts
Questions are the guideposts on the way to your “tiny home”. Let the answers guide you and find out how you can make your home dreams come true.