Driving Change in Construction: Unlocking the Potential of Volumetric MMC
Volumetric Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) represent a transformative solution for addressing the UK’s housing shortage, including the ambitious goal of building 300,000 homes annually. However, despite its potential, volumetric MMC faces several challenges that must be tackled to unlock its full benefits. This is outlined in this research piece published this week: Volumetric Modular Construction research – GOV.UK
Key Risks
- Early Planning Decisions to adopt volumetric MMC must be made at the project’s outset. Delayed decisions disrupt design processes and hinder supply chain engagement, leading to inefficiencies.
- Ownership Gaps Fragmented accountability between offsite and onsite teams risks creating gaps during the critical transition from factory to construction site.
- DfMA Design Flaws Errors during the Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) stage can propagate through every unit produced, amplifying defects across projects.
- Testing and Skills Shortages Current testing standards often fail to address the unique needs of volumetric construction, particularly in fire safety.
- Additionally, gaps in onsite skills can lead to installation errors and compromised quality.
Opportunities for Mitigation
- Integrated Processes: Implement end-to-end project management and adopt digital tools to streamline design, manufacturing, and installation.
- Regulatory Updates: Align standards and testing protocols with the specific demands of volumetric MMC.
- Data-Driven Confidence: Build trust with long-term performance data, especially regarding fire safety, durability, and lifecycle costs.
Why BOPAS Stands Out in Volumetric Construction Accreditation
The path to addressing these challenges lies in robust accreditation schemes, and the BUILDOFFSITE Property Assurance Scheme BOPAS has emerged as a leader in the field.
What Sets BOPAS Apart?
- Longevity Assurance BOPAS assures lenders, insurers, and buyers that modular homes are designed to last at least 60 years, spanning two mortgage terms and demonstrating durability.
- Comprehensive Framework The scheme combines process accreditation and durability assessment (now managed by LRQA ) with an accessible database of certified methodologies and properties, ensuring transparency and confidence.
- Tailored to MMC Unlike traditional warranties, BOPAS addresses the specific needs of volumetric construction, such as precision in connectivity, transport logistics, and fire safety.
Why the Industry Needs BOPAS
- Clarity Amid Complexity Multiple accreditation schemes—NHBC Accepts, BPS 7014, Premier Guarantee—create confusion, making it difficult for stakeholders to navigate the landscape. BOPAS offers a unified and reliable approach.
- Building Confidence BOPAS provides robust evaluations and transparency, giving insurers and funders the assurance needed to support innovation in modular construction.
- Centralising Expertise By fostering a quality-driven approach, BOPAS helps consolidate knowledge and address the fragmented nature of the market, ensuring better outcomes for the sector.
The Road Ahead
To fully realise the potential of volumetric MMC, the construction industry must streamline its standards framework and prioritise quality and resilience. BOPAS is well-positioned to lead this transformation, setting a benchmark for trust, durability, and performance. Let’s build a future where innovation and reliability go hand in hand.