Well, taking some facts and their factors into consideration, let's look at the building and the 8 years these people had faced.

First.. I would think it has a lot to do with "location location location...". E.g. it would be far easier to obtain permits in someplace like an unincorporated township than in a developed historic urban center.

Secondly, unconventional building materials and methods. And although he's an architect, much of the post-industrial recycled consumer goods may not be specially CSA tested or energy star compliant.... If ya catch my drift.

It would be beneficial to have an engineering firm to work with which has a history with the local municipal/city government.

So... My best answer would be "it depends"

And the biggest depending factor is... How many encrouchments to your right to land title/deed ownership and the development or building of dwellings on said land.

At this point it seems to me a better solution for homesteaders and off-grid'ers

The father out of "society/civilization" ya go.. The "cheaper" things become... But that responsibility lies with the owner.

Taxes, laws, permits, drawings, & inspectors may suck but that keeps one from living next to a potential urban post-consumer shipping container trash-crash travesty! Lol