The Basics of House Raising - House Raising Ocean County

The Basics of House Raising

From the need for more space to achieving compliance with flood regulations, homeowners have many reasons to lift their homes. Particularly those who live at the shore, they want to avoid further damage to their homes caused by erosion and major storms. Regardless of the reason, the process of lifting a house can be more economical and convenient than putting the house up for sale, creating a costly addition or paying big insurance premiums.

Check out these steps to a successful house raising in New Jersey:

1. Locate a reputable contractor. Ask for word of mouth and professional recommendations, then come up with a few companies that may fit the bill. Call them and ask each for a portfolio of recent projects. Find out addresses and go see those homes in person. At the same time, work out your budget so you have an idea of what you can afford.
2. Do your homework. Inquire what you need to do regarding permits at your local building authority. Find out the answers to questions like: Do I need a variance? Does a new foundation need to be constructed or is the existing foundation sufficient? Are there any height requirements for the town? Does my house have to legally conform to current laws on side yard set-back?
3. Have your building designer or architect draw up plans to spell out the scope of work. In order to qualify for a permit, you’ll have to submit those plans to the local building department.
4. Ask if your contractor is fully licensed and insured for your protection, then call your Homeowner’s Insurance Representative about the project.
5. Obtain written estimates. Ask each contractor for a written estimate outlining the scope of work, cost and payment schedules, and any contingency plans.
6. Choose your contractor, making sure the company has experience in your exact type of structural lifting project. Don’t neglect reading the fine print of the estimate before making a choice. Set up an on-site meeting with all contractors and any subcontractors. Sign the contract after reading it thoroughly.

Congratulations, you’ve selected your contractor! Now you’ll have to ensure that they provide you with updates on their progress. Check out these steps to a successful house lifting:

• Removal of decks, porches, walkways, steps, and staircases
• Removal of pavers and landscaping (these will be added back in later)
• Provision of engineering and architectural drawings, soil samples, and site surveys
• Disconnection of all utilities
• Actual lifting of house with hydraulics and other state of the art equipment
• Building of new foundation OR
• Repair work to the foundation, whether concrete foundations, pilings, or helical piles
• Construction of new lower level
• Installation of hurricane straps and bracing
• Painting or siding of house
• Raising of HVAC equipment off the ground
• Re-installation of all previously removed items
• Re-connection of all utilities

A successful house raising will give you peace of mind when you choose a reputable contractor like Level and Square Construction and Remodeling. Call us today for a free, no-obligation estimate.