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Why a Custom ARU Build Is Better Than Prefab Options in Ontario
- The Modern Day Builder
- Jul 8
- 3 min read
Discover the difference with Modern Day Builder in London, Ontario
Accessory Residential Units (ARUs), also known as tiny homes, garden suites, or backyard units, have become a popular solution for homeowners across Ontario looking to add living space, support multigenerational families, or generate rental income. But not all ARUs are created equal.
If you’re researching options, you’ve likely come across prefabricated ARU models—those “one-size-fits-all” units that promise a fast, simple solution. While prefab may seem convenient, there are some serious limitations when it comes to design, size, value, and long-term performance.
At Modern Day Builder, we specialize in fully custom ARU builds in London, Ontario and surrounding areas, and here’s why that makes all the difference.
1. Maximize Every Inch of Your Property Prefab ARUs are designed to be easily transported and mass-produced. That means you’re often stuck with standardized sizes that may not work with your lot—or waste valuable space.
At Modern Day Builder, we don’t believe in wasted square footage. We assess your specific lot and design a detached ARU that makes the absolute most of your available space—within local zoning and bylaw requirements.
Custom sizing
Layout designed for your yard
Optimized floor plans for function and comfort
2. Tailored to Your Lifestyle, Budget & Design Vision Prefab models come with fixed layouts and limited finish choices. Want to add a larger kitchen? Need more windows? Prefer a modern black-and-wood exterior? You're out of luck with prefab.
With our custom ARU builds, you have the freedom to design a space that reflects your lifestyle and personal taste—without being boxed in by factory specs.
Fully customizable finishes and materials
Personalized floor plans
Built for how you live—not how a factory builds
3. Better Quality Construction That Lasts
Prefab units are typically built to meet minimum code, and sometimes they’re constructed off-site in other provinces or countries where standards may vary. That can mean issues with insulation, foundational stability, or integration with your existing utilities.
Our ARUs are built locally, on-site, and with the same craftsmanship and building standards as a full-sized custom home. That means:
Higher energy efficiency
Stronger structural integrity
Seamless utility integration (plumbing, electrical, HVAC)
4. We Handle Everything—From Permits to Final Walkthrough Building a prefab unit often means you, the homeowner, are stuck navigating zoning, permit approvals, servicing, and site prep on your own.
Modern Day Builder offers a turnkey ARU service. We manage every stage of the process for you, starting with our Discovery Package, which provides:
Property eligibility assessment
Size and design possibilities based on your lot
Zoning and bylaw analysis
A custom plan to move forward confidently
5. Local Expertise You Can Trust We live and work right here in London, Ontario, and we’re proud to serve the surrounding communities with builds that meet Ontario Building Code standards and local municipal zoning requirements.
Our team has deep knowledge of city processes and will ensure your ARU meets all regional guidelines—because what’s legal in Toronto or Ottawa may not apply in London.
Local service, fast response times
Familiarity with city inspectors and zoning rules
Proudly serving London and Southwestern Ontario
Don’t Settle for a Box When You Can Build a Home
Your ARU isn’t just an “extra unit.” It’s a home—and it should be treated like one. With a custom ARU from Modern Day Builder, you get a space that’s functional, beautiful, and built to last.
Whether you’re planning for a family member, income suite, or future investment, don’t compromise on quality, design, or square footage. Contact our team today and find out how much more your property can do. Ready to explore your options?
Start with our Discovery Package and see if your property is eligible for an ARU.
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