Quick Summary

- Raising a house is a major, complex, and expensive project that requires lifting the entire structure and building a higher foundation.

- Average costs for basic house raising are $20,000–$40,000, but totals can range from tens of thousands to over $100,000.

- Costs increase with factors such as house size/weight, foundation type, site accessibility, permits/inspections, and plumbing/electrical/HVAC work.

Introduction

Raising a house is a major project that involves lifting the entire structure off its foundation and building a new foundation at a higher elevation. There are various reasons why homeowners may choose to raise their house, such as to protect against flooding, add livable space, or improve the foundation. However, this is not a simple or inexpensive process, and homeowners need to carefully consider the cost and other factors before embarking on this project.

Factors to Consider

The cost of raising a house varies depending on several factors, including:

1. The size and weight of the house
2. The type of foundation to be built
3. The accessibility of the site
4. The cost of permits and inspections
5. Additional costs for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems

Average Cost Estimates

The cost of raising a house can range from tens of thousands of dollars to over $100,000. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $20,000 and $40,000 for a basic house raising project. However, if the project involves extensive foundation work or additional modifications, the cost can easily exceed $100,000.

Tips for Managing Costs

Homeowners can take steps to manage the cost of a house raising project, such as:

1. Getting multiple quotes from reputable contractors
2. Choosing a simpler foundation design
3. Reducing the scope of the project
4. Considering financing options, such as home equity loans or lines of credit

Looking to raise your house? Learn more about the process and costs at Coohom.