Find quick answers here
Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
General Info
Are models customizable?
We offer semi-custom units that allow the following choices.
Windows and doors
Exterior siding and trim type
Floor, wall, and ceiling finishes
Electrical service (for on or off grid)
Fans, smart switching, exterior lighting, heated floors
Fixture and appliance finishes
Mini-splits for heating and cooling
Blinds, shades, awnings
Toilet types including standard, composting, and incinerating
With more options including solar power, murphy beds, and other fixed furniture
During STEP 3 (see Ordering Process) we will work with you on the finishing touches that will include the fine details including exact colors, finishes, materials, and other options depending on the unit you select.
If you have other customizations you would like to request, we can consider those, but we need to limit how we modify the units to keep our building process efficient to keep the cost and build time down. There will be additional design and engineering fees for specialty modifications, including the joining of units.
At the end of this process we will present you with 3D renderings of your unit showing interior and exterior perspectives.
How are units modular?
We envision Sojourn Dwellings being installed as standalone units or as a group. When grouped together, these units can be connected in various ways to accommodate different layouts and uses. At this time we do not currently have preconfigured unit connections, so designing these connections will require additional customization and design time. These units may be arranged in a campsite, retreat center, or other setup with multiple small dwellings in many locations.
The variety in features of these units is meant to facilitate the creation of a retreat-style glamping resort. Multiple open units may be designated for sleeping, while a single shared unit may house a kitchen or bathroom. To keep the installation process simple, we recommend keeping the units independent from each other. Consider connecting with minimal roof lines or canopies, leaving the space between them less developed and preserving the natural surroundings.
How do I order a Sojourn?
STEP 1: CHOOSING YOUR OPTIONS
Choose the options you would like to include in your quote. This price will not be final, but it is expected to be in the range of 10% of what your final cost will be.
STEP 2: CHECKING OUT
After you have verified all of your options you can proceed to checking out. Don't worry if you want to make changes, this is not the final step in ordering. After you check out and pay the deposit, we will contact you to finalize your options, prepare a model of your unit, and finalize the purchase agreement.
STEP 3: WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU CHECK OUT
FINALIZING YOUR ORDER. After you check out and pay the required deposit, within 2 business days you will be invited to join Buildertrend.com where we will work directly with you to finalize all of your selections.
How do I pay for my order?
The first deposit payment is due when you check out. You will also receive a quote for your Sojourn. After we complete your design and finalize all your options, we will present you with a purchase agreement, including your final cost. Please note that the final cost may vary depending on any additional customizations or changes you make to the original design.
Our payment process is transparent and straightforward. You will make three payments in total. The first payment of 60% is due immediately, enabling us to order the necessary materials for your Sojourn. After we place this order we will notify you when we expect to receive all special order items and when your second payment will be due.
Once all the materials are in, we will begin production on your unit, and the second payment of 30% will be due. We will keep you informed with pictures and updates on the production progress.
The final payment of 10% is due once your Sojourn build is complete and ready to be delivered.
Payments can be made by certified check or ACH transfer.
Are there sales tax or other fees?
There may be additional fees as part of your order depending on the purchase made and where you are located. This includes potential sales tax, tags, title and tax for any trailer purchase.
How long will it take to receive my order?
The time it will take to manufacture your Sojourn will depend on your selected window and door options. Some window and door units will take longer to receive than others. In general, production will take 12-16 weeks to complete.
Before you finalize and pay for your order, we will give you a more accurate timeframe and an approximate completion date. Four weeks before the completion of your Sojourn we will contact you to arrange specific dates for the pickup or delivery.
Utilities
How can water be supplied to the units?
The water supply for kitchen and bathroom units may be from an external source such as a well, cistern, or public water. These systems must provide pressurized clean water to the units and can be connected to water supply inlets. The system design for these external connections should ensure that the water lines are protected from freezing or are easily winterized.
Alternatively, for locations with no water source, we have options for small holding tanks with pumps suitable for light use, including sinks and short-duration showers.
What are the options for wastewater?
There are multiple options for handling wastewater for kitchen or bathroom units. These units will come with a waste outlet for tying into external systems. Grey water from sinks can be routed into existing septic systems and other water displacement systems or collected for reuse. Units without toilets can have limited internal collection reseviors that must be manually emptied.
All black water must be connected to a public system or a septic system. However, we do offer multiple toilet options if a system is not available. These include incinerating and composting toilet options. A macerating toilet is available for locations where a disposal system is in place uphill or at a distance from the Sojourn, which will grind and pump black water.
Water collection systems using the Sojourn gutters are possible but not a feature we include at this time. Learn more about manaing grey water.
How are the units powered?
We provide all internal electrical wiring and devices. The location and types will be finalized during the design phase. Units may be wired to existing service panels, similar to how a mobile home may be connected to an external source, or service cable may be run directly to the unit. We have multiple options for smart device or span panel upgrades. These will let you remotely control the power to your unit when the internet is available. You must contact your local power company to find out the regulations for providing electrical service; many have specific requirements for mobile or tiny home structures that may apply to the Sojourn installation and use.
Can these be installed in off-grid locations?
There are numerous ways to install a unit in off-grid locations. We currently have the option of installing battery backup systems with our units. Depending on the power usage, these systems may provide power for short to midterm durations. These battery systems can be recharged by a portable generator. We are currently working on solar array options for our models and expect these units to be available in early 2025.
An electrician on site must make all connections to existing systems. During the design process, we must identify any preparations that we need to make during fabrication.
How long will battery backup systems provide power?
This is a great question and can be complicated to answer because it depends on the power demand and the size of the batteries installed. Our online store will provide a quote for these systems, but we will work with you during the design phase to finalize the system design and cost.
The information below is sourced from EnergySage.com.
3,500 W air source heat pump for just under 4 hours;
300 W TV for 45 hours;
200 W refrigerator for 67.5 hours;
Five 20 W light bulbs for 135 hours;
25 W phone charger for 540 hours;
Or a 6 W WiFi router for 2,250 hours.
If you're using only the essentials, like your WiFi, phone, refrigerator, and some lights, you can expect the Powerwall to hold you over for around 24 hours during a blackout. Alternatively, if you're adding in other electronics, like your TV or air conditioning system, this will cause the charge to last a fraction of this time. While your particular power needs may vary, around 24 hours for the essentials is generally a good rule of thumb.
When you’re deciding if you want to purchase a battery for energy storage, one common question is how long a Tesla Powerwall or another battery will power common household appliances like a refrigerator. The length of time a Powerwall will power it depends on how many watts the refrigerator uses. For example, it’ll power a 200 W refrigerator for 67.5 hours.
Do you offer models with propane?
Liquid propane is a good option for water heaters and cooking and requires less electrical power. This can help reduce the power consumption for models that are off grid which will extend battery life. We can provide LP appliances upon request with piping to the exterior side of the unit, but connection to propane tanks and other plumbing must be done onsite and is not included.
Delivery & install
How will I get my Sojourn to my property?
We offer a few options for you to receive your Sojourn. These options and their cost will depend on the final destination. We may arrange direct delivery for locations within our region (Rio, West Virginia). Other options include 3rd party transportation services, which can cost as much as $3/mile. 1020 models on a trailer will be up to 10' wide, 26' long, and 13' tall. Therefore, special permits may be required in each state through which the unit will travel. These permits and costs can be quoted to you by your selected transportation service.
Do I need a foundation?
The Sojourn may be purchased in two ways, either on or off a trailer. When you purchase the Sojourn on a trailer, it will be ready for delivery once the unit's build is complete. After delivery to your location, the Sojourn may be left on the trailer or removed and installed on a foundation. If the unit is left on the trailer, you can level the trailer, remove the tongue and wheels, and build a skirt around it to hide to hide the trailer if you prefer. This is the most straightforward way to purchase and install your Sojourn.
If you purchase your Sojourn and don't want to keep it on the trailer, you can install it on a stable ground surface or foundation. To do this a crane or roll-off service will be required. Foundation requirements will vary by the local municipalities, but in some cases, the unit could be placed on a leveled gravel pad or rock pad. Other permanent options include slab-on-grade, or mounted on concrete or helical piles/screws. How we prepare the base of the Sojourn will depend on the details of your installation, but we will do as much as possible to reduce the amount of site work required for installation. In this situation, you will keep the trailer.
How do I prepare our site for a Sojourn?
Additional site preparation may be required depending on where the Sojourn will be installed. This includes accessibility for the Sojourn trailer, delivery truck, and possibly a mobile crane. Setting Sojourn units on hillsides or steep terrains or lifting them to higher elevations may require a crane of substantial size. In this situation, the crane service will need to make a site visit to discuss your options before delivery. The infrastructure for any unit being connected to an electrical or water and sewage service should be prepared before delivery.
Is engineering or permitting required?
While sojourn units are designed to meet IRC 2018 Building Code, it's important to understand that additional factors may need to be considered depending on your location. This could include regions with seismic or other more severe climatic differences. In such cases, additional permitting or engineering may be required in your region. The classification of your Sojourn unit could also vary, from a 'travel trailer' to a permanent building structure, an ADU, or a shed or outbuilding. Each of these situations will be handled differently by your jurisdiction, HOA, or other local authorities or building code. To navigate these complexities, it's always helpful to investigate how your region handles and treats tiny homes or travel trailers. Remember, we're here to support you in this process.
If your region mandates certified engineered drawings or modifications to the unit, it's essential to comply. This requirement ensures the safety and compliance of the unit with local regulations. Please inform us of these requirements before we commence the process so we can provide an accurate quote for the additional cost.
Our Policies
Do you offer refunds or returns?
Before making a purchase, it's important to note that we do not offer returns, refunds, or exchanges of our products or services. This is a key aspect of our policy that you need to be aware of. By purchasing any product or service from us, you agree to these terms:
Your initial deposit is refundable within 3 days. To initiate a refund, simply contact us within 72 hours of making the payment. We will guide you through the process and ensure a smooth transaction.
Once your deposit has been received and we commence the design process with you, you retain the ability to cancel the process at any time up until the first payment for construction is made.
Once the first payment is made, we will order the products required to build your Sojourn, and they are all non-returnable. We understand that circumstances can change, but please note that at this point, no payments made are refundable. We kindly ask for your understanding that any cancellation of a build is your responsibility. We are not responsible for refunding any amount paid in part or in full due to cancellation of the project or change of mind.
It's crucial to adhere to the payment schedule. If the second payment is not received as planned, we will halt work on your project. However, we are committed to your project and will resume work as soon as the payment is made. Failure to make the payment within five business days gives us the right to cancel your project, and you will forfeit all materials purchased.
When the final payment is due and your Sojourn is built and ready for transport, we will release it for delivery. If payment is not received within five business days, we reserve the right to cancel your project, and you forfeit all materials, labor, and other costs used to build your Sojourn.
By making any payments to Design-Build-Live LLC, DBA Sojourn, you agree to this no-refund policy.
Do you offer a warranty?
1. Limited Warranty.
Design-Build-Live LLC (“Manufacturer”) warrants Sojourn modular dwellings (the “Products”) to be free from manufacturing defects in material and workmanship, under normal use and service for a period of 1 years from the date of purchase to the original buyer for all units delivered and installed by Manufacturer. In the event of a manufacturing defect, this limited warranty covers the scope of inclusions and exclusions.
Units that are not delivered or installed by Design-Build-Live, LLC will not be covered under our warranty.
2. Scope of Warranty.
Manufacturer warrants only the Products which are manufactured by Manufacturer. ANY THIRD-PARTY COMPONENTS WHICH ARE NOT MANUFACTURED BY THE MANUFACTURER OR ARE NOT PART OF THE BUILDING STRUCTURE ARE NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. Manufacturer shall replace any defective materials under this Limited Warranty but shall not be responsible for labor charges, shipping charges, or other expenses incurred in connection with the removal or installation of the original or replacement materials. Manufacturer also reserves the right to refund the amount paid by the purchaser of any defective Product, as its sole obligation under this Limited Warranty. Third-party components may be covered under third-party warranties.
3. Exclusions.
This Limited Warranty shall not extend to any of the following:
Equipment which has been modified, repaired, or altered in any way without express written consent of Design-Build-Live LLC.
Unreasonable use (including failure to provide necessary scheduled and routine maintenance).
Tires, axles, power units, and all other parts not manufactured or constructed by Design-Build-Live LLC are warranted by their respective manufacturers.
Parts that require replacement in the ordinary course of use due to normal wear.
Any trailer used as rental equipment.
Damage to paint.
Products that have been painted or had their surface treated with other than approved chemicals.
Products not properly installed or where installation is not in strict adherence to Manufacturer’s written instructions;
Misuse, abuse, neglect or improper handling or storage of Products;
Use of accessories that do not properly receive and/or secure the Products;
Movement, distortion, collapse or settling of the ground or structure on which Products are installed;
Third-Party Components or finishes like the doors, windows, flooring, cabinets, toilets, shower, electrical, plumbing, appliances, accessories, hardware and so on are not covered under this limited warranty. Their respective manufacturers should be contacted directly for service of the products under their warranties.
Electrical and Plumbing installations are NOT COVERED by this warranty and should be done by professional contractors.
Defects not caused by Manufacturer (for example, but not limited to acts of god, accidents, improper applications or installations outside of industry or Manufacturer standards); and
Any other cause not involving manufacturing defects in the Products.
Any damage caused during transportation, moving, or setting of the Product.
Additionally, Products are not warranted against discoloration or other damage cause by air pollution (including but not limited to metal oxides or metallic particles), mildew, exposure to harmful chemicals or weathering from the elements. Weathering from the elements is defined as exposure to sunlight and extremes of weather and atmosphere which will cause any colored surface to gradually fade, chalk, or accumulate dirt or stains. The severity of any condition depends on the geographical location of the Product, the cleanliness of the air in the area, and many other influences over which Manufacturer has no control.
Manufacturer reserves the right to discontinue or modify any of its Products, including the color, without notice to the purchaser nor shall Manufacturer be liable in the event the replacement Products may vary in color in comparison to the original product. If Manufacturer replaces any Product under this warranty, it may substitute Product designated by Manufacturer to be of comparable quality or price range in the event the Product initially installed has been discontinued or modified.
Manufacturer reserves the right to void this warranty if units appear damaged in any way from transporation or setting the unit. This includes possible damage due to travel, road conditions, colloisions, or any other incident where damage occured to the Product. This further includes units that are removed from a trailer and set by a crane or roll-off.
The manufacturer reserves the right to void this warranty if the Product appears damaged during transportation or setting. This includes possible damage due to road conditions, weather events, collisions, or any other incident that could cause potential damage to the Product. Because of the potential for damage due to third-party providers' mishandling of the Product, units removed from a trailer and set by a crane, roll-off, or any other method will not be covered under this warranty.
4. Limitations on Liability.
(a) THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES WHICH EXTEND BEYOND THE FACE THEREOF, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WRITTEN OR ORAL, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WHETHER OR NOT ARISING FROM ANY TRADE USAGE OR COURSE OF DEALING, WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCTS OF COMPANY.
(b) IN NO EVENT SHALL MANUFACTURER BE LIABLE FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, INDIRECT, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ANY PRODUCT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION LOSS OF USE, LOSS OF TIME OR INCONVENIENCE, OR INCIDENTAL EXPENSES.
(c) IN NO EVENT SHALL MANUFACTURER’S LIABILITY HEREUNDER EXCEED THE COST OF THE PRODUCT.
(d) SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. ALSO, SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
5. Obligations of Consumer.
As a condition precedent to Manufacturer’s performance of this Limited Warranty, the purchaser must promptly notify the Manufacturer in writing of any manufacturing defect and provide proof of the date of purchase as well as proof of property ownership. Details on making a warranty claim will be part of your final agreement when purchasing your Sojourn.
WARRANTY CLAIM PROCESS
All warranty claims should be directed to:
Design-Build-Live LLC
PO Box 338
Capon Springs, WV 26823
6. Limitations & Exclusions.
7. Modifications.
The Manufacturer reserves the right to make changes in design and/or materials in its Products without being obligated to incorporate such changes in any Products of prior manufacture, and to make changes in any time and design, materials or parts, without obligation or liability to owners of similar or the same model of prior manufacture.
8. Severability.
Nothing contained herein shall be construed as to require the commission of any act contrary to law, and wherever there is any conflict between any provision of this Limited Warranty, and any statute, law, ordinance or regulation contrary thereto, the latter shall prevail; provided, however, that the provision of this Limited Warranty which is affected, shall be curtailed and limited only to the extent necessary to bring it within the requirements of the law.
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