FAQ's

No - Expanders® units do not leak when installed correctly.

Our expandable homes are engineered to be weather-tight once fully expanded and sealed. Any reported leaks are almost always the result of incorrect installation or non-genuine / knock-off units, not the Expanders® system itself.

For customers wanting additional protection or a more permanent setup, we offer:

• Optional flashing to all expansion joins
• Optional pitched roof and guttering systems for improved rainwater management

Our team provides guidance during installation to ensure your Expanders® is sealed and performing exactly as designed.

Expanders® are manufactured to NZ specifications. The manufacturing of the main Expander is completed overseas, and some minor details or options are supplied locally.

We take great pride in ensuring that our Expanders are fit for purpose and have as many of the materials and designs that we need in NZ. Our electrical wiring systems have been developed and specified by fully qualified electricians

Yes - Expanders® can be modified and customised.

Common modifications include:

• Removing or altering bathrooms
• Adding or repositioning doors
• Installing guttering and other external features

Most changes are possible as long as they fit within the unit’s structural and dimensional limits.

Customisation allows flexibility while maintaining efficient manufacturing and competitive pricing. All modifications must be confirmed prior to production.

Yes. Expanders® are well insulated for year-round comfort.

Standard insulation includes:

• 50–75mm glass-wool panelling in the main walls and roof
• Under-floor insulation (now included)
• Double-glazed windows across all models

This combination helps regulate temperature, reduce heat loss, and improve overall comfort.

No, Expanders® are not made from shipping containers. They are specifically designed for comfortable living and built to fit perfectly inside a shipping container. This allows for easy and cost-effective transport, whether by HIAB truck for local deliveries or by container ship for international customers.

No - Expanders® do not come with a hot water system.

This allows customers to choose a system that suits their power supply and usage needs, such as:

• Electric or gas
• Instant or storage systems (various sizes)

Installation of a hot water system requires additional plumbing and electrical work and must be completed by a qualified professional to meet safety and compliance requirements.

Yes, Expanders® can be relocated. If you have purchased the base trailer, then this is the easiest way to move it on private land, or you can transport it on a truck (a crane will be required).

No - Expanders® does not carry out installation directly.

Due to varying local council requirements and the weight of our units, installation must be completed by a qualified local installer.

Typical installation requirements:

• 20ft Expander: minimum 4 people
• 40ft Expander: minimum 6 people

Professional installation is critical for:

• Safe unfolding and placement
• Correct sealing after expansion
• Long-term weather-tight performance

While installation is not included, Expanders® can recommend experienced installers and provide installation guidance and documentation to support the process.

Expanders® can be placed on several foundation types, depending on the model, site conditions, and local council requirements.

Common foundation options include:

• Concrete slab or concrete pads (footings)
• Concrete, timber or steel stumps / piles
• Levelled, high-compacted ground (where permitted)

The appropriate foundation depends on factors such as soil conditions, climate, site access, and intended use.

Customers must consult a qualified contractor or engineer to confirm foundation requirements, including any necessary soil testing or engineering for load-bearing and ground movement.

If you are in New Zealand, Expanders® may not meet the requirements to be used as a permanent dwelling.

Council rules vary by location, so it is the customer’s responsibility to check with their local council to confirm what uses are permitted for their specific site.

Expanders® are commonly used as transportable units, caravans, or temporary dwellings.
Any use beyond this should be discussed with your local council before purchase or installation to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

We offer a 3-year structural and 1-year fixtures, fittings, and finish warranty on all Expanders, complying with NZ consumer law requirements.

Please note that the warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, damage caused by accidents or misuse, or damage caused by natural disasters or extreme weather conditions. We recommend that you take appropriate steps to protect your Expander from these risks, such as securing it properly and maintaining it in good condition.

Overall, we are committed to providing high-quality buildings that are built to last.

Unlike traditional builders, delivery isn’t based on driving a unit from Christchurch across the country.

Instead, freight is calculated to your nearest major port, which means:

• North Island customers pay North Island delivery rates
  
• South Island customers pay South Island delivery rates
  
• No cross-island cost loading
  

This keeps delivery fair, competitive and transparent — nationwide.

The standard turnaround time for Expanders® is approximately 4 months from order to delivery.

Timeframes may vary depending on:

• The specific Expanders® model
• Optional upgrades or customisations
• Manufacturing capacity, materials and transport logistics

If you have a specific deadline, this should be discussed at the time of sale so we can provide the most accurate estimated delivery timeframe.

Please note that external factors such as shipping schedules and supply chain constraints can impact delivery. We will keep you informed if any delays occur.

International delivery time & cost can vary significantly, it’s best to request a quote. Through our freight partner we now offer low-cost New Zealand-wide delivery usually ranges from $1,000 - $4,000 per unit, with prices varying based on distance from Christchurch and the complexity of the drop-off. Because the units are shipped in container form, we can keep delivery costs low. Furthermore, we can accommodate deliveries to most locations throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. You can request a delivery quote here.

Yes - finance is available through our approved finance partners, allowing you to pay over time with manageable monthly repayments.

Applications are straightforward and typically receive a quick decision.

Finance is subject to eligibility, credit approval, and lender terms. Full terms and conditions will be provided by the finance provider prior to approval.

Contact our team to discuss available finance options.

Not currently. We do however offer payment plans through our finance partner - see more info in next question.