When it comes to providing housing for RSE (Recognised Seasonal Employer) workers, choosing the right type of building is crucial. While some growers might be tempted by cheaper options like chiller panel buildings, these often lead to significant long-term issues. At Site Scope, we specialise in manufacturing Modspace® Buildings using a tried, tested, and proven timber-frame building system – the same method used in 99% of builds across New Zealand. We believe it offers a superior whole-of-life cost and provides healthy, durable accommodation.
The Problem with Chiller Panel Buildings
You might see chiller panel buildings touted as a quick and inexpensive solution, and they certainly have their place in some applications. However, for RSE worker accommodation, they present several major drawbacks:
- Rapid Depreciation & High Maintenance: Chiller panel buildings depreciate quickly and are notoriously difficult to maintain. When a panel gets damaged, there’s no reasonable way to repair it, leading to a shabby appearance after just a season or two of use.
- Condensation Issues: This is perhaps the biggest problem. The internal steel walls of chiller panel buildings are highly conductive, leading to significant condensation. On some mornings, you’ll find walls literally dripping with moisture. This isn’t just unpleasant; it’s unhealthy for occupants, damages furniture and bedding, and significantly reduces the building’s lifespan and value.
The Timber-Frame Advantage
Our Modspace® Homes are built with durability and comfort in mind, using a trusted timber-frame, cladding-on-cavity system. Here’s why this is the only sensible choice for RSE accommodation:
- Long-Lasting & Reliable: Timber-frame buildings are robust, durable assets designed to last. Maintenance is straightforward, and repairs are easy, meaning your investment stands the test of time.
- Superior Internal Linings: We use an internal Triboard lining. This lignin is incredibly strong and durable, perfectly capable of withstanding the wear and tear inherent in worker accommodation.
- Warm, Dry & Energy Efficient: Our buildings are fully insulated and include double-glazed windows. They are compliant with NZBC H1 regulations and go above and beyond to ensure spaces are warm, dry, and energy-efficient for your workers.
- Compliance is Key: Crucially, the RSE Worker Accommodation Standards put forward by NZI and Worksafe explicitly state that buildings must be constructed with timber-frames and have stopped and battened joins in wall linings. Opting for anything less puts you at risk of non-compliance.
Navigating Complex Regulations
Designing worker accommodation camps involves far more than simple residential construction. There are numerous rules and regulations that come into play when a project is classed as commercial. Our extensive background, which includes designing multi-level motel accommodation, commercial tenancies, and hundreds of Ministry of Education classrooms, means we have a firm grasp on these complex requirements.
- Fire Regulations: This is the number one issue we often see residential builders overlook. The NZBC has strict rules about fire-rating between accommodation units. Misunderstanding or omitting these regulations can significantly impact your foundations and building structures, leading to costly variations if not carefully considered during the costing stage. We work with fire-engineers to develop efficient methods of compliance, incorporating them into our project proposals from the very start.
- Comprehensive Compliance: Beyond fire safety, there are many layers of compliance within the Worksafe and NZI Worker Accommodation Standards. These cover everything from the number of toilets to bedroom sizes and hygiene standards. Our thoughtful RSE accommodation designs take all of these into account, ensuring your accommodation meets every requirement.
Choosing Modspace® Homes for your RSE worker accommodation isn’t just about providing shelter; it’s about investing in a long-term, compliant, and comfortable solution that benefits both your workers and your business.
To view our RSE Accommodation Solutions, please click here…