One of the first logistical challenges when planning a construction project is setting up a site compound. This temporary workspace acts as the control centre for project operations, providing essential facilities such as offices, storage, security, and amenities. But how much does it cost to establish a fully functional site compound? In this guide, we’ll break down the key cost factors and considerations, helping construction managers, project coordinators, and site supervisors make informed decisions – each site compound price will vary and is dependent on the # of people onsite and requirements needed to keep the compound running.
What Is a Site Compound?
A site compound is a self-contained operational shed on a construction site. It typically includes:
- Site Offices, Workspaces & Meeting Rooms – For project coordination and administrative work.
- Amenities & Welfare Facilities – Including toilets, kitchens, lunchrooms and break areas for workers
- Storage & Tool Sheds – Secured areas for materials, equipment, and tools that can we locked away
- Security Measures – Fencing, CCTV, and access control to protect the site
- Utility Connections – Power, energy, water, plumbing and waste management solutions
What Influences the Cost of a Site Compound?
The cost of setting up a site compound depends on various factors, including site location, project duration / hire time, facility requirements, and other needs. Below are the key cost factors to consider:
1. Site Size & Layout
The larger the site compound, the higher the hire cost. If space is limited, you may need multi-level or high-density solutions, which can impact pricing.
A well-planned layout helps maximise efficiency and cost-effectiveness – our project managers can help you plan and establish your site compound so you don’t have to worry about the little things, we want you to focus on what’s important and that’s your project.
2. Temporary Site Shed Hire & Facilities
The cost of site sheds, site offices, lunchrooms, toilets, change rooms, and storage containers varies depending on size, quality, and features. Rental options are available, with prices ranging from ~$150+ per week for a 12-month hire – 6x3 site shed (not including other specifications and optional add ons)
3. Security & Fencing
Security is a major consideration, especially for high-risk sites. Costs to take into consideration include:
- Temporary fencing hire
- CCTV site security camera and monitoring services
- Access control gates and personnel management systems
4. Utility Connections & Waste Management
Many site compounds require independent renewable energy, power, water, plumbing and waste management solutions.
- Generator hire
- Solar Power Generators
- Water supply tanks & plumbing
- Septic tank installation & servicing
- Regular waste collection & disposal
5. Renewable Energy & Power Solutions
With increasing demand for sustainable construction practices, incorporating renewable energy solutions can be both cost-effective and environmentally responsible.
- Solar-powered site compounds – Reduce reliance on diesel generators and lower operating costs.
- Hybrid generator systems – Combining solar energy with backup generators ensures reliable power while reducing fuel consumption.
- Battery storage solutions – Store excess energy generated from solar panels for consistent power supply.
- Eco-friendly temporary site services – RhinoSite offers solar lighting towers, battery-powered generators, and hybrid power units, minimising carbon footprints while maintaining site efficiency.
6. Logistics & Delivery Costs
Transporting and setting up site facilities involves logistics expenses, particularly for urban or remote locations. Consider factors such as site access, traffic restrictions, and crane hire costs.
RhinoSite services and delivers Australia-wide.
7. Project Duration & Lease Terms
Site compound hire costs may increase with project length. Short-term projects may face higher rental fees, while long-term contracts can reduce per-month expenses.
Speak to our project management team today and we’ll help you work out a site compound solution tailored to your project budget!
How to Budget for a Site Compound
For a standard construction project (6–12 months), a basic site compound setup can cost anywhere from $10,000 – $150,000, depending on requirements. Breaking down costs in advance allows for better financial planning and resource allocation.
- Short-Term, High-Power Demand Projects? Diesel generators may be the best choice for projects requiring high, immediate power loads.
- Long-Term, Cost-Sensitive Projects? Solar power is ideal for extended site operations, reducing ongoing fuel and maintenance costs.
- Sustainability-Focused Projects? Solar energy helps companies meet environmental and carbon-neutral targets while benefiting from government incentives.
- Hybrid Solutions? Many sites benefit from a hybrid power system, combining solar energy with diesel backup for uninterrupted power.
How RhinoSite Can Help
At RhinoSite, we specialise in turnkey site compound solutions tailored to construction and infrastructure projects.
Our services include:
- Custom Site Planning & Setup – Designed for maximum efficiency
- Modular Site Buildings & Facilities – Flexible rental & purchase options
- Advanced Security & Access Control – Reducing theft and unauthorised access
- Utility & Waste Management Services – Hassle-free compliance and site maintenance
Understanding site compound costs is crucial for project managers and construction professionals looking to streamline operations and stay within budget. By working with specialists like RhinoSite, you can ensure a cost-effective, compliant, and fully functional site compound that meets all project needs.
For many, the words “site compound” and “innovation” don’t typically go hand in hand – but at RhinoSite, they do. But what truly sets us apart is our exceptional project management.
From site compound planning and installation to ongoing maintenance, our expertise ensures that every aspect of your project runs smoothly. While we offer portable building hire, temporary fencing, walkway covers, furnishings, and essential site utilities such as water supply tanks, solar generators, plumbing and electrical connection, our customers rely on us for more than just products—they trust us to manage the process with precision and efficiency. We also ensure compliance with safety standards by providing fire safety equipment and first aid supplies, fully installed and compliant with Australian code.
Contact us today!
For a custom site compound quote, contact RhinoSite today and let our experts handle the setup so you can focus on delivering your project efficiently.
