FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why are our cabins the best?
Many customers choose our cabins over others because of the higher quality, design and looks. All of our cabins feature the side ranch slider and deck design which give the interior a feeling of more light and space and the exterior a modern and clean look that does not look out of place in any environment. Our cabins are better quality than many other "home-built" styles advertised, and we are also very competitive in our pricing. Another benefit is we mount our cabins higher off the ground than others. This allows for more airflow underneath, resulting in a much drier cabin, which helps to keep the cabin warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer because the air can circulate underneath. All this adds up to being much better for your health. We mount and level our cabins on concrete blocks, this makes them firm and stable when walking around inside. These are just some of the benefits of why people prefer our cabins. We try hard to provide the best possible service and value available in the North Island.
Are Cabins Insulated?
Yes - our cabins are fully insulated in the walls, ceilings, and under the floor. This is great for warmth in the winter and helps keep it cooler in the summer.
Are Units Powered?
Yes - Our cabins come with power connectors that allow easy connection to existing 230v power outlets.
What about plumbing and toilet?
The Norfolk ensuite comes with a shower, vanity and toilet. The kitchenette has a kitchen sink. It comes plumbed to one point at the back. The cabin has a hot water califont which works great when you hook it to mains pressure. If your water supply is from a header tank you may need a small inline pump to assist. The hot water califont requires a gas bottle supplied by you. A 9kg BBQ gas bottle works great. Hook-up is your responsibility. Water to the cabin can be connected to a normal outside garden tap. Black alkathene is preferred over garden hose as it is better for drinking water. Grey water from the cabin can be run to a normal outside drain. The toilet is a cassette-type portapotti only really for nighttime use and needs emptying frequently. Video here. The best option is a standard toilet if you can service it.
Do we need council consent?
Typically No - Because they are a temporary and mobile accommodation registered as a light vehicle with NZTA. It would be very rare circumstances that you could require consent for a portable cabin. eg. A commercial location may require consent. We locate cabins throughout the North Island. If you have any concerns please contact your local council for clarification.
Is there a delivery fee and bond?
To cover our transport and setup costs we charge a delivery fee depending on your location - please call us for more specific details regarding delivery costs and bond - we are very competitive with these fees. Bond for Wade Cabins is $500. Delivery, Set up, and Pick up at the end generally total around $950 depending on location. Bond for Norfolk cabins is $800. Delivery, Set up, and Pick up at the end generally total around $1050 depending on location.
Is there a minimal rental term?
Our minimum rental period is typically 6 months as this allows us to maintain our low weekly rental rates. The majority of our customers will take an initial rental term contract of between 6 to 12 months and then continue to rent after that period is up. There is no limit to how long you keep renting your cabin after your rental period is over.
What are the Cabin dimensions?
The Wade is 4.8m long, 2.4m wide and 3.2m high. Its roof is 3.1m across the top.
The Norfolk is 7.2m long, 2.7m across and 3.2m high. Its roof is 3.1m across the top.
What do I need to supply?
You supply...- Microwave / Cooking facility. There is a microwave shelf. For other cooking, most people use small 2 burner electric hobs.
- Gas bottle for Hot Water Califont. A 9kg BBQ gas bottle works great.
- Plumbing from cabin to services. Read more in our FAQ... What about Plumbing
FAQ's FOR CABIN USERS
I have no power?
Check the power point your power lead is plugged into. Check the circuit breaker button on the power lead. Here is a Cabin Power Document which may help. Here is more if your Circuit breaker keeps tripping. Contact us if you continue to have a problem.
My Hot Water is not hot?
- Check your gas bottle is full.
- Check the intake and outflow taps to the califont are on. They should be vertical. ie. In line with the pipe.
- Switch off the power to the cabin for 10 seconds. Then switch back on to reset califont.
- Check the intake filter is not blocked. On top of the white tap where you connect the water, there is a slot for a screwdriver. Remove the cap and there is a filter inside. Clean and replace.
- Check you have good water pressure through your hot water tap compared to the cold water tap. The hot water califont works great when we hook it to mains pressure. If your water supply is low pressure or from a header tank you may need a small inline pump to assist. If you need one of these search Trademe for "Hot Water Booster Pump". Make sure you get one that has a built-in pressure switch. Low water pressure may also be caused by a blocked filter. Contact us regarding backflushing the unit.
- Sometimes they need to cycle through up to 10 times if it is a new califont or been sitting for a while. Inside turn on one of your hot water taps on full. Go outside and turn the tap off at your water intake. Wait for the unit to finish the cycle. Turn the tap back on and see if it starts. If not turn the tap off and wait for unit to finish the cycle. Turn the tap back on and see if it starts. Repeat until it starts. Repeat up to 10 repetitions.
- Here is a look at the Operating Manual if you have the OptiFlow, or the Operating Manual if you have the HydroPower.
Why do I have moisture in my cabin?
Cabins have ventilation requirements that larger houses don't. Cabins can get humid quickly which can cause moisture buildup. Excess Moisture Solutions...- Ventilation is crucial. Open windows daily to allow airflow.
- If there is no wind a fan will increase airflow.
- Use the right heaters. Gas heaters add moisture to the air. Small electric heaters work best.
- Open windows when cooking or showering.
- Do not hang wet clothes in the cabin.
- Use a dehumidifier.
Can I move my cabin?
Sorry No. Only our approved contractors can move cabins. Please get in touch with us if you wish to move it.
What do I do at the end of the lease?
We require one month's notice when you are finished with the cabin. Our contractor will remove the deck and steps. Your job is to clean to the same level you received the cabin. Here is a helpful Cleaning Guide to get it ready for removal.