The cost of building a shipping container house in Iowa City is primarily determined by the cost of the container, the materials needed, the design of the house, and the labor cost. A 20 feet long container can be bought at $1,400 up to $2,800 depending on the condition of the container and how used it is. A 40 feet long container can be purchased starting at $3,400 up to $4,500. The cost of converting it into a shipping container house in Iowa City will also depend if you will hire a builder to build it for you or you will buy a pre-fabricated Iowa City shipping container house from a manufacturer.
Should I get a permit to construct my shipping container house in Iowa City?
Yes. Just like with a conventional house, you need to secure permits and make sure that your container house will comply to your area's building codes and policies.
Will it be hotter inside a shipping container house in Iowa City during summer?
No. If you have it properly insulted and installed with the necessary HVAC system, the temperature can be manageable regardless of the weather.
Are Iowa City shipping container homes safe from natural disasters?
Nothing is really safe when hit by a natural disaster. However, since container houses are built without foundations, they're a lot safer during earthquakes. They are also durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.