FAQs

Construction

Does the eco-pod meet the building regulations in South Africa?

Yes, our eco-pods are designed and built to comply with the SANS 10400 building regulations in South Africa, including fire regulations. The Geodome is effectively a tent and, therefore, considered a temporary structure.

Do these eco-pods need fresh water, electricity, and wastewater connections?

The eco-pods are equipped to handle solar power, and a solar panel kit can be installed as per the customer's requirements. The customer is responsible for providing a source of freshwater, either through a municipal connection or water tank. Waste disposal options include connecting to nearby sewerage or using a compost toilet system.

How long does it take to build an eco-pod or the geodome?

It takes 12-16 weeks from the moment the deposit is received for the order to be completed.

Are the cabins fireproof?

We have designed the cabins in compliance with the SANS 10400 – Part T (fire regulations) in South Africa. The walls have a 30min fire rating, but we would recommend that clients take care when installing and operating these units, making sure that fire extinguishers are always visible and accessible by guests, and that all exits are never blocked. Emergency contact numbers for the property manager or the fire department in the area need to be displayed.

How many eco-pods can you build at once?

The workshop floor space can be increased to accommodate large orders of 5-10 eco-pods.

Do you build custom designs?

Yes, custom designs can be built according to the customer's requirements.

Is there a lot of maintenance on an eco-pod?

Is there a lot of maintenance on an eco-pod? The eco-pods are built to be durable with low maintenance exterior materials, and internal furniture and finishes are of high quality and can be maintained with proper cleaning and care. Locally sourced materials and fittings are used for easy replacement or repairs if needed.

Do you have a larger eco-pod for families?

The current eco-pod models are limited in size but can be joined together to make a larger cluster for groups and families. Larger models are also being developed.

How do guests access the eco-pods?

The eco-pods are designed for self-check-in, with a smart combination lock on the front door, allowing guests to access the eco-pod upon arrival and eliminating the need for the host to be present to hand over keys.

How many people can stay in the eco-pod?

he standard eco-pod with an internal floor area of 24m² can accommodate two guests. Several eco-pods can be joined together to make a family cluster, and larger models are being developed.

Pricing

How much does an eco-pod cost?

The base prices for the eco-pods are as follows: Petrichor Eco-pod – R565 000, Serenity Eco-pod – R600 000, Tacitus Eco-pod – R850 000, Geodome – R400 000. The base price includes walls, windows, doors, and floors. A full Bill of Quantities outlining all of the various items in the build can be created, depending on the customer's requirements for high-end finishes, joinery, plumbing, electrics, and an en-suite shower-room. Transport costs vary depending on the location of the site and accessibility. Additional features can be added to the Bill of Quantities based on the operational needs of the eco-pod.

Do you require the entire cost of an eco-pod upfront to begin building?

We require an 80% deposit is required to secure the order. When the unit is nearing completion then the next 10% is required, and the remaining 10% is paid once the unit is installed on site. The team will also de-snag and sign off any issues relating to the work done on the eco-pod by the company once it has been installed on site. Certificates of Compliance are also provided for all of the work which Apex Glamping is responsible for.

I have an incredible site, but don’t have an experience in the hospitality industry
– can Apex help?

Certainly! We have over 30 years’ experience in the hospitality industry with backgrounds in architecture and operations. Our goal is to enable landowners to create additional streams of revenue through our growing network of eco-pods, while offering unique experiences to travellers and explorers who want to reconnect with nature. We have several service providers who could assist you from an operational perspective too.

Installation

How long does it take to install an eco-pod on my site?

If the foundations and all the services are installed, the eco-pod takes one day to install. Several days after the installation of the eco-pod are recommended for building additional decking, pathways, and anything else that is required around the site.

What kind of foundations do you need for an eco-pod?

A low impact foundation pad is typically used, which is easy to install and adaptable to various soil. Apex Glamping can assist with the design of the foundation as we work with some fantastic structural engineers. It will be the responsibility of the client to prepare the site and arrange for a local builder to construct the foundations to receive the eco-pod.