What distinguishes a modular home from a mobile home?

A modular home is distinct from a mobile home primarily due to its transportability. Modular homes are constructed in sections at a factory and then transported to a permanent site where they are assembled on a foundation. Once set up, they are generally not designed to be moved, thus providing advantages in durability and stability over time.

In contrast, mobile homes, now often referred to as manufactured homes, are built on a chassis and can be transported easily. This mobility feature is a key characteristic of mobile homes, as they are designed for relocation if necessary.

Understanding this distinction helps clarify how modular homes, while often similar in appearance to mobile homes, are intended for permanent placement and generally meet more stringent building codes akin to traditional site-built homes.