Raising a house is a significant undertaking, often needed for foundation repairs, flood mitigation, or adding a basement. Here’s a breakdown of the costs, factors, and considerations for this complex project.
Average Costs
- National Average: $10,000–$60,000
- Cost Range: $10,000–$200,000
- Key Factors: House size, foundation type, labor, permits, and additional structural support.
Cost by House Size
| House Size | Average Raising Cost |
|----------------------|--------------------------|
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $10,000–$30,000 |
| 1,500 sq. ft. | $15,000–$44,000 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $20,000–$55,000 |
| 2,500 sq. ft. | $25,000–$60,000 |
Factors Affecting Costs
- Home Size: Larger homes require more equipment, labor, and materials.
- Foundation Type: Homes with crawl spaces or pier foundations are easier (and cheaper) to lift than slab foundations.
- Location: Regional costs and accessibility affect labor and equipment expenses.
- Permits: Cost $1,200–$2,000; ensure your contractor includes this in their estimate.
- Insurance: Adequate homeowner and contractor insurance are essential.
- Plumbing & Electrical: Disconnect/reconnect utilities for $50–$100/hour (electricians) and $45–$100/hour (plumbers).
- New Foundation: Replacing a foundation adds $20,000–$100,000 to the project.
- Pillars for Stability: $1,400–$2,100 each; needed for long-term support in areas with unstable soil.
- Cleanup: Landscaping repairs post-project may be required.
Labor Costs
| Professional Type | Average Hourly Cost |
|------------------------------|--------------------------|
| Structural Engineer | $100–$200 |
| Architect | $125–$250 |
| Plumber | $45–$200 |
| Electrician | $50–$100 |
| Excavator | $40–$150 |
| Laborer | $16/hour |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $22/hour |
Cost by Reason for House Lifting
- Foundation Replacement: $20,000–$100,000 depending on the type and square footage.
- Flood Mitigation: $20,000–$80,000; may include piers and pilings. Check for FEMA grants if you have National Flood Insurance.
- Relocation: $15,000–$200,000, depending on distance, terrain, and house condition.
- Basement Addition: $10,000–$175,000, including excavation, plumbing, and finishing.
Add-Ons to Consider
- Adding or replacing a crawl space.
- Installing a new basement.
- Strengthening structural support.
- Repairing or upgrading the foundation.
Ways to Save Money
- DIY Disconnects: Safely disconnect plumbing and electricity to save on labor costs.
- Research Permits: Ensure permits are included in your contractor’s estimate to avoid hidden fees.
- Choose Efficient Contractors: Compare multiple quotes and review credentials to get the best deal.
Considerations Before Lifting a House
- Structural Integrity: Older homes may be less suitable for lifting due to wear and tear.
- Timeframe: The project can take several weeks, with actual lifting lasting about a week.
- Damage Risks: Expect possible cracking of drywall, floors, or ceilings.
Lifting your house can be an investment in safety and value. Whether it’s for flood protection or foundation repairs, understanding the costs and factors involved ensures a smooth process.
Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
