Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about financing your prefab home.
01. What makes Cueva different from traditional modular housing?
We are a design-forward manufacturer that combines great architecture with competitive pricing. Unlike traditional modular providers, we operate as a housing innovation platform. This means we build advanced delivery systems and high-quality residences at the exact same time.
02. What are your homes built with?
Our homes feature a welded HSS steel post-and-beam system with light-gauge steel infill. We use premium materials like triple-pane glass, R30-R38 insulation, powder-coated aluminum panel siding, and a standing seam metal roof system to ensure lasting value and top energy efficiency.
03. Are Cueva homes certified for use in Canada?
Yes. All our units are CSA-certified (CSA A277). This ensures they meet all Canadian building standards for quality and safety.
04. How long does it take from deposit to move-in?
The full process typically takes about 12 weeks. This includes 6 weeks for permitting, 2 weeks for site preparation, and 6 weeks for final shipping and setup. Many of these steps can move in parallel to save time.
05. Who handles the site preparation and permits?
Cueva helps the homeowner apply for all the required permits. We can also coordinate with trusted local contractors for full-service site preparation, including foundations and utility connections.
06. Are there any undisclosed or hidden costs?
Transparency is a core value at Cueva. Your Cueva is delivered to the Port of Vancouver and cleared through customs for a fixed cost of $165,000, which typically represents about 85% of the total project budget. We guarantee this portion of the pricing. All remaining hard and soft costs like engineering, site preparation, and utility connections are managed through an open tender process. Cueva provides full visibility by sharing all third-party bids directly with you so you know the exact cost of the remaining project scope. You also keep the right to use your own preferred engineers and trades. [3.1]
07. How will you keep me updated on my home's progress?
Transparency is everything to us. You will receive a dedicated project coordinator, bi-weekly progress updates, and access to a shared digital folder containing all your key documents and timelines.
08. Do engineers need to be involved?
Yes, a geotechnical or structural engineer is typically required. They are especially needed for septic system design, foundation planning, and municipal building permit submissions. Cueva will help coordinate and refer you to qualified professionals to keep your project moving forward.
09. What are the transport costs from Vancouver to my site?
Once your Cueva arrives at the Port of Vancouver, transport to your site typically ranges from $5,000 to $20,000 within Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. Costs vary depending on the distance from the port to your property, the unit size, the number of sections, and road access or ferry logistics. We will provide a precise quote once we know your lot location.
10. What kind of warranty do you offer?
Every Cueva home is backed by a comprehensive New Home Warranty. This includes 2-year coverage on labor and materials like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. It also features 5-year coverage on the building envelope like the roof, windows, exterior doors, and exterior walls, and 10-year coverage on structural defects.
11. How do I make a warranty claim?
For any warranty concern, the process is straightforward. You can email or call our warranty team using the contact details provided at handover and submit a Warranty Claim Form. We will schedule a site visit or review photos within 5 business days. If the issue is covered, repairs will be scheduled within 10 to 20 business days depending on availability. We stand behind our homes and make the claims process as simple as possible.
12. Is financing available?
We work with specialized lenders to help you explore tailored mortgage solutions. This includes construction loans and land-home package financing.
13. Is a Cueva home considered a permanent dwelling?
Yes, a Cueva home is considered a permanent dwelling. Even though they are built off-site and can be relocated if necessary, they are engineered and certified to meet the same strict Canadian building standards as any traditional house. Once connected to a foundation and local utilities, they function exactly like a permanent, standard home.
14. What models and sizes are available?
We offer different models designed to fit various needs, starting with our popular Ember model. Our sizes range from smaller, efficient studio spaces perfect for garden suites or guest houses, up to larger multi-section configurations for full-sized living. Please contact us for our latest floor plans and model specifications.
15. What kind of foundation can a Cueva home sit on?
Cueva homes are designed to sit on a permanent engineered foundation. We highly recommend using screw piles as they are the most modern, efficient, and cost-effective method for our homes. They install quickly with minimal ground disruption and work beautifully across different BC terrains. If required by your specific site or financing needs, our homes can also sit on concrete perimeter foundations, concrete pads, piers, or a standard crawlspace.
16. Who provides power, water, and utility connections to the site?
Your Cueva arrives fully prepped for connection. The electrical panel, plumbing, and HVAC systems are already complete inside the unit. The utility connections from your property line to the home are arranged by the homeowner through local providers and contractors during site prep. This typically includes connecting to BC Hydro, hookups for municipal water or a well, and connections for a municipal sewer or an engineered septic system.
17. What is the starting price for a Cueva home?
Our models, such as the Ember and Solace, start at CAD$165,000 + GST landed in Vancouver. Please note that final project pricing is confirmed in a written contract and varies based on site preparation, transportation, and installation requirements.
18. What is included in the “turn-key" unit?
Your Cueva arrives completely ready for living. This includes a fully finished kitchen and bathroom, premium appliances like a fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave, hood fan, and washer/dryer. It also comes with all electrical, plumbing, HVAC systems, and window coverings. We even offer furniture packages so you can fully furnish your home and make your Cueva truly move-in ready.
19. Can I customize my home?
Absolutely. We offer two interior color options and multiple exterior color choices. We also offer a lot of add-on features for increased comfort and smart home intelligence. Structural changes are limited so we can maintain our strict CSA certification standards.
20. What is the estimated cost of land preparation?
Land preparation costs vary significantly depending on your site. In the Nanaimo region, typical costs range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more. This depends on tree removal, excavation, grading, septic systems, water connections, foundation choices, and driveway access work. We offer site assessments to help provide a more precise estimate based on your specific property.
21. Is a deposit required?
In some cases, yes. Please reach out to us directly so we can walk you through what your unique ordering process will look like and confirm any deposit requirements at that time.
22. Can I relocate my Cueva home in the future?
Yes. Cueva homes can generally be safely relocated 2 to 3 times. You are not required to use Cueva for future moves, but we highly recommend working with our licensed transport partners who know the unit specifications and required permits. Each move includes transport permits, a crane lift if needed, and site setup at the new location.
23. Can I expand my Cueva home at a later date?
Yes. CSA A277 does allow for future expansion, but there are important conditions and planning requirements. We recommend discussing your long-term vision with us early in the process so we can help you plan accordingly.