FAQs About Elsewhere Pods: Everything You Need to Know About Tiny Homes and Prefab Living in Australia

FAQs About Elsewhere Pods: Everything You Need to Know About Tiny Homes and Prefab Living in Australia

Everything You Need to Know About Elsewhere Pods

Your most common questions, answered.

Thinking about adding a pod to your property? Whether you’re dreaming of a backyard studio, a tiny house retreat, or a modular office, we know you probably have questions. This guide covers the essentials — from permits to plumbing — so you can feel confident in making your Elsewhere Pod your own.

What sizes do Elsewhere Pods come in?

Our pods come in a range of sizes to suit different needs and land sizes:

  • 2.7m — Compact and ideal for workspaces, wellness retreats, or tiny backyard builds.
  • 4m — Popular for offices, guest pods, and short-stay studios.
  • 6m — Great for multi-use spaces like studios with bathrooms or sleeping zones.
  • 8m, 10m, 12m — Perfect for modular tiny homes and luxury eco-accommodation.

All pods are 2.4m wide, and we also offer double-width; 4.8m options for larger spaces or full homes. This means we can provide footprints between 6.5sqm up to 58sqm for our standard sizes, and the sky is the limit for custom modular designs with decks, multiple pod connections and double storey options available.

Do I need council permits?

It depends on the pod size, design and your local council rules. In many areas, 2.7m and 4m, and even 6m pods can be installed without needing council permits. For larger builds, our in-house team can manage the full approvals process, making it easier for you to get started without the usual red tape.

What are Elsewhere Pods made from?

We use materials that are modern, durable, and sustainable:

  • Frame: Lightweight structural aluminium for strength.
  • Walls & roof: Insulated sandwich panels with extra high performance insulation to keep things comfortable.

Glazing: Floor-to-ceiling, thermally broken, double-glazed windows with low-E film for maximum energy efficiency. The glass is 8mm thick with a 15mm Argon filled cavity.
These elements ensure every pod is structurally robust, weatherproof, energy-efficient, and built for Australian conditions.

  • Our pods are made from 99.9% recyclable materials, meaning that it’s one of the most sustainable building systems ever designed.

Can I customise my pod?

Absolutely. Elsewhere Pods are truly modular. You can choose layouts and add features like:

  • Rooftop balconies
  • Indoor–outdoor bars
  • Bathrooms and kitchens
  • Pergolas, decks, and lounge spaces

You can use our online configurator or work with our design team to create something unique to your needs.

How are pods delivered and installed?

Pods are flat-packed, making them easier and more cost-effective to transport especially to remote or tricky-access properties. Once delivered, installation can be done in as little as 2 to 4 days for smaller builds. Larger pods typically take 4 to 7 days on site after delivery.

What kind of base do I need for a pod?

Smaller pods can sit on firm and level ground with pavers, deck or a concrete slab. For larger models, we recommend a concrete base or screw pile system. If you're after portability or want to avoid a permanent foundation, we also offer trailer-mounted options.

Are pods waterproof and weatherproof?

Yes. All pods are designed to handle Australia’s climate. With proper installation and materials, they stay dry, insulated, and comfortable year-round.

Is financing available?

Yes. Thanks to a partnership with Commonwealth Bank, customers can now access prefab construction loans for Elsewhere Pods. We also offer leasing options in-house and tailored solutions through our partner Great Escape Finance.

What if I need help with the process?

We’re here for the whole journey from design and council permits to installation and aftercare. Whether you're adding a backyard studio or launching a tiny house Airbnb, we’ll help you every step of the way.

Still have questions?

Contact the Elsewhere team or start designing your pod with our online configurator.
We’ll help you bring your idea to life, wherever “elsewhere” is for you.

 

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