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Pros and Cons of Pharma Modular Labs vs. Stick Built Labs

You may be wondering if a modular lab is a viable option for your new life science facility. While the standard answer for most things lately is “it depends,” the same is true for this decision. Every building has different infrastructure, and every specific requirement and specs for a lab also vary greatly. The only true way to determine which option is more desirable is to examine and cost out the various opportunities.

Other factors that must be examined in addition to cost include the timing and determination of how challenging or complex the process will be for each decision. The following are some basic pros and cons:

Pros

  • A modular clean room is considered a piece of equipment and can be treated as such for accounting purposes, which you should discuss with your accountant
  • You can take it with you when you move permanently from the space
  • Modular labs can also be relocated or expanded upon in your existing space
  • Overall delivery time will most likely be less
    • Time for constructing and delivery of the modular lab is relatively short
    • Time can be saved if there’s an overlap of scheduling to prepare the infrastructure in the facility, such as plumbing, mechanicals, HVAC and electrical, during the same time frame the modular unit is prepared, which differs from a stick-built option, where tradesman need to work in a more sequential fashion
    • Weather conditions will be less of a factor in affecting the schedule as the modular is made indoors
  • There may be less disruption to daily business and less dust because the modular portion of the improvement is happening offsite
  • Modular labs are also a good option if there is a shortage of skilled tradesman in the area where the lab will be located

Cons

  • Final cost of a modular lab can be greater than stick built depending on the transportation costs and infrastructure needs
  • There is less flexibility due to parts of the design, such as height and area limitations, inherent in the modular construction model
  • The exterior may not deliver the desired image, whereas there is more control over this aspect if you are constructing from your own design and not the constraints of a predetermined option
  • Code compliance and inspection process will differ from a stick-built lab
  • Future flexibility and adaptability may be reduced

In order to properly evaluate the most advantageous choice between modular labs vs. stick built labs, it is advisable to consult with experts. This will provide a complete picture, including all construction and installation costs, plus necessary permits and approvals from local municipalities. Pricing needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

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Please contact for more information about available laboratory space in New Jersey.

Jeanne Sabo Rothenberg, CCIM
Vice President
NAI DiLeo-Bram & Co.
Cell: (908) 377-9004
www.commercialrebroker.com
jrothenberg@naidb.com