Do Expandable Cabins Leak?

We understand that some customers may have concerns about potential leakage in expandable homes. At The Cabin Factory, the integrity and performance of our products are our top priorities. Each unit is engineered with precision, using durable materials and weather-resistant systems to ensure safe, comfortable living when installed and expanded correctly.

Instances of leakage are not inherent to our expandable homes. They typically arise from improper installation or the use of imitation products that do not meet our quality standards. Proper expansion and sealing are essential to maintain structural integrity and weatherproofing. The Cabin Factory’s expanders are designed to be securely sealed after unfolding to prevent any potential water ingress.

For customers seeking additional peace of mind or a more permanent setup, we offer several upgrade options to enhance weather protection. Adding flashings to the joins is a simple, reliable method to strengthen the seal against rain. For the highest level of protection, we also provide pitched roof and guttering systems—these direct rainwater away efficiently, minimising any risk of leaks and improving long-term durability.

We strongly recommend consulting our expert team during installation to ensure your expandable home is set up correctly and to explore available weatherproofing enhancements. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction means we’re always here to help you create a secure, dry, and comfortable living environment.

Are Expandable Homes Relocatable?

Yes, our Expandable Homes are fully relocatable. If your unit has been purchased with a base trailer, it can be moved easily across private land. Alternatively, it can be transported on a flat-deck truck, though a crane or HIAB will be required for lifting and positioning.

Before relocation, the building must first be folded. Any plumbing, electrical, or fixed connections must be safely disconnected by a qualified tradesperson. Additionally, internal furnishings, flashings, kitchen fittings, and cover strips will need to be removed to allow the home to fold properly.

We recommend checking with your local council and landowner to ensure that the new location is suitable and complies with any relevant regulations or site requirements.

With proper preparation and professional assistance, relocating your Expandable Home can be a straightforward and successful process—offering flexibility and convenience for your changing lifestyle or property needs.

Do The Cabin Factory Install?

Due to the diverse local council regulations across New Zealand and the significant weight of our expandable units, we strongly recommend engaging a qualified local installer for setup.

For reference, our 36 m² Expandable Unit requires at least four people to unfold safely, while the 70 m² model needs a minimum of five. This highlights the importance of choosing an installer with proven experience in handling expandable homes and understanding the specific requirements involved. Engaging professionals with the right skills and qualifications ensures that installation meets the highest standards of safety, precision, and durability.

If you’re unsure where to find a qualified installer, we recommend contacting your local trade association or industry body, which can often provide a list of reputable and experienced professionals in your area.

Proper installation by experienced tradespeople is essential—not only for efficiency, but also for long-term performance and safety. Correct sealing after expansion is crucial to maintain the unit’s watertight integrity and prevent potential leaks.

By prioritising professional installation, you’ll ensure that your expandable home performs as designed—secure, weather-resistant, and built to last for many years.

We also offer installation services in certain locations, available by individual arrangement depending on your site and region. Please contact us to discuss installation options in your area.

Is there Council Approval for Expandable homes?

if you are in New Zealand, our Expandable homes may not meet the necessary building standards to be used as a permanent dwelling or for other purposes. it is important to check with your local council to determine what regulations apply to your specific situation.

overall, it is important to approach the local council before using an Expandable cabin for any purpose other than as a transportable/caravan or a temporary dwelling to ensure that the building meets the necessary standards and regulations.

What Are Your Turnaround Times?

Our standard turnaround time for the manufacture and delivery of our Expandable Homes is approximately three months. However, this may vary depending on the model type, custom options, and current production schedule.

Each home goes through a detailed process that includes pre-order verification, design and engineering, fabrication, assembly, quality control, and finally transportation and delivery.

If you have specific deadlines or timing requirements, please discuss them with our sales representative at the time of purchase. Our team will work with you to understand your needs and provide an accurate estimated delivery timeframe based on your order.

Please note that manufacturing and delivery timeframes can occasionally be affected by external factors such as material availability, shipping schedules, or logistics delays. We do our best to minimise these and will always keep you informed of any changes.

At The Cabin Factory, we are committed to delivering high-quality Expandable Homes that meet your requirements within a reasonable and transparent timeframe. If you have any questions about production or delivery, please don’t hesitate to contact our team for updates or guidance.

Are the Expandable Cabins Insulated?

Yes — all our Expandable Cabins are well-insulated. We use high-quality 50–75 mm panels for the main walls and roof, providing excellent thermal performance. In addition, all cabins come with double-glazed windows to further enhance energy efficiency and comfort.

This combination ensures a warm, comfortable living environment in winter and a cool, pleasant space in summer — perfect for year-round use.