Public awareness of MMC remains low despite majority support for adoption
New research finds 52% of adults would buy MMC homes but concerns persist on quality and design
31 March 2026 | editor@breakingground.news
A new national study has found that while public awareness of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) remains limited, a majority of Irish adults are open to purchasing MMC-built homes, with strong recognition of its role in addressing the housing crisis.
The research, commissioned under The Housing Agency’s Research Support Programme and carried out by Focus Ireland with Amárach Research, combines focus groups and a nationally representative survey of 1,000 adults to assess public attitudes and communication challenges around MMC.
The findings point to a clear opportunity for industry and policymakers to accelerate MMC adoption, but highlight a persistent gap between awareness, perception and understanding.
Key survey findings
- 37% of adults are aware of MMC, with awareness higher among older cohorts
- 52% would be willing to purchase an MMC home, compared to 17% opposed and 31% unsure
- 11% have already lived in an MMC home
- Nearly 7 in 10 believe MMC can help solve the housing crisis
- MMC homes are widely viewed as equal or superior on energy performance and sustainability, but less certain on affordability and durability
The research also found that familiarity drives acceptance, with those who have lived in or understand MMC significantly more likely to view it positively.
Positive sentiment but persistent misconceptions
Focus group participants broadly recognised MMC as a necessary tool to increase housing supply, particularly given Ireland’s ongoing shortage.
However, the research highlights a consistent perception issue:
- MMC is frequently confused with ‘modular’ or ‘prefab’ housing
- Negative associations remain with temporary classrooms or poor-quality historic builds
- Concerns persist around durability, design quality and long-term performance
Participants repeatedly stressed that transparency on quality, lifespan and standards is critical to building trust.
Importantly, many concerns raised were not specific to MMC, but related to broader systemic issues such as affordability, infrastructure and planning delays.
Industry opportunity to shape public narrative
The report identifies communication as a key barrier to wider MMC adoption, despite broadly positive underlying sentiment.
Recommended actions for industry and government include:
- Establishing a broad stakeholder coalition including builders, local authorities, SEAI, lenders and residents
- Showcasing real-world MMC projects and lived experiences
- Providing clear evidence on quality assurance, durability and compliance with planning standards
- Avoiding language such as ‘prefab’ or ‘rapid-build’, which carries negative connotations
- Positioning MMC as a mainstream housing solution, not limited to social or emergency housing
The findings align with Government policy, which has set a target for MMC to account for at least 25% of new social and affordable housing delivery, as part of efforts to scale output and improve sustainability.
Delivery challenge remains beyond construction method
While MMC is widely viewed as part of the solution, the research concludes that accelerating housing delivery will require a broader systems approach.
Barriers such as planning, infrastructure provision, financing and workforce capacity remain critical constraints, regardless of construction method.
The report ultimately positions MMC as a necessary but not sufficient intervention, with its success dependent on coordinated policy, market confidence and public acceptance.
