RVIA Tiny Homes VS NOAH Tiny Homes

While some people think tiny homes are still a fad, we believe that tiny homes are here to stay. However, how tiny homes are built is still an area that is being developed and understood so that the proper credentialing can take place. A tiny home should be built to quality standards, and the governing bodies that typically oversee the build of tiny home park models is RVIA or NOAH. However, understanding what each certification means can be a bit confusing. This blog will help you know the difference between the certifications.

What is a Tiny Home?

First things first, a tiny home, for the sake of this conversation, is a home that is built on a trailer and is 400 sq ft or less. This can sometimes be called a tiny home on wheels or a park-model tiny home. At Zook Cabins, all our park-model tiny homes are 400 sq. ft. or less and are built to RVIA standards. 

What is a NOAH Tiny Home?

A NOAH tiny home on wheels is built to the NOAH standards. As of 2023, NOAH has increased its standards to NOAH+. In most cases, they follow the same guidelines that RVIA standards require. However, NOAH has some of its own variations they require for their homes to be NOAH certified. 

How Are NOAH Homes Certified?

NOAH homes are certified via video inspection. This is a great way to get your home’s certification, especially if you do your tiny house as a DIY project. Additionally, this process allows you to get a second set of eyes on your project if you are coming up with questions and need assistance. The biggest reason NOAH was started was to help create a way for tiny homes to have standards for insurance.

How Much does NOAH certification cost?

NOAH certification cost varies depending on the type of project you are doing. For example, if you are doing a few a year, it can cost you $1760 per build. If you build tiny homes as a regular business, you may want to invest in the manufacturer-build project, which starts at $2505 a year and covers the cost of 2 dwellings. If you build more than two dwellings a year, you will need to purchase additional seals at a total cost of $500 a seal. (Prices are reflective of January 2025).

How much does an RVIA certification cost?

RVIA certification costs run a bit differently than that of NOAH. For example, a master technician is certified for 5 years and continues their education each year. This certification cost is dependent upon the company’s overall revenue. However, unlike the NOAH certification, there is no limit to the number of tiny homes you can create within a year as long as they comply with the RVIA ANSI 119.5 specifications. 

What is an RVIA Tiny Home?

RVIA tiny homes are tiny homes that are built to RVIA standards. RVIA standards are the standards by which RVs and travel trailers are built. This means that a park-model tiny home built by Zook Cabins will meet all RVIA standards, assuring that your tiny home will last for years to come. 

Do NOAH TINY Homes Cost More Than RVIA Tiny Homes?

No. Just because a home is NOAH-certified does not mean it will cost you more money than an RVIA home. Just as an RVIA tiny home specification does not mean it will cost more money than NOAH-certified homes. NOAH has builders all over the country, including NOMAD Custom Tiny. On the other hand, RVIA builders also have a comprehensive list of builders, including Zook Cabins and many more. 

How Do RVIA Tiny Homes Become Certified?

RVIA certification is achieved by having team members of the tiny home build team certified in RVIA standards. They must pass a written exam as well as a practical exam. These individuals are then licensed to build park model homes to RVIA standards. This is just like if someone has a vehicle inspection license from the state. An easy way to take classes to obtain certification is through the National RV Training Academy. Here, they can help get you the education needed to become a certified member. 

Are NOAH or RVIA Tiny Homes better quality?

Neither NOAH nor RVIA tiny homes are “better.” It comes down to the builders themselves as to whether the quality of the building is of high standards or not. At Zook Cabins, we pride ourselves on having high standards so that every park model home is pristine.

Are Zook Cabins NOAH or RVIA certified?

All park-model tiny homes at Zook Cabins are RVIA-certified and meet the ANSI 119.5 standards. This means that your park model tiny home will come with an RVIA seal of approval. Certifying its legitimacy signifies its build quality and meets the standards of RVIA. At this time, Zook Cabins does not offer any NOAH-certified homes. 

Should I buy A Tiny Home without an RVIA or NOAH certification?

No! We would not recommend buying a tiny home without an RVIA or NOAH certification. Without the provisions of these certifications, you will have difficulty having your tiny home insured or approved for usage. Ultimately, this may leave you with a tiny house that can not used “`as you had desired.

Can I move a park model tiny home by myself?

You can move some of the park model tiny homes by yourself. Our Nook Studio home can be moved with a pickup truck to your desired location. However, some of the bigger park model homes need to be moved with a semi-truck and need exceptions for oversized load capabilities to do so. 

How Many Types Of Tiny Homes Do Zook Cabins Have To Offer?

At Zook Cabins, we offer 11 styles of park-model tiny homes. We offer two styles, log and modern. Our smallest park model tiny home is the Nook Studio at only 204 square feet. Most of the other tiny homes we have to offer, like the A-frame and Luna, are 400 square feet.

Conclusion…

As we mentioned, tiny homes are here to stay. Whether you choose a NOAH model or one of the prestigious Zook Cabins RVIA ASNI 119.5 models, we know you will enjoy tiny living. So when you are ready to make your purchase, make sure that you contact us at Zook Cabins, and we will be happy to serve all of your tiny home needs.