So, you’ve selected an experienced contractor for your house raising project in Queensland. Now what? Raising a house is no easy feat, and understanding your legal requirements, the process, and your project goals ensure everything runs smoothly.
Meier House Removals works closely with the Brisbane City Council to help you obtain the appropriate permits and paperwork, and with builders and surveyors to make a plan to maximise the results of your house raising, restumping, levelling or sliding project.
Getting Licences and Approvals for House Raising
You will need to obtain the proper licences and approvals from the Brisbane City Council before you embark on your house raising project. If you’re working with an experienced contractor, they will know what you need and where to get it.
According to the Brisbane City Plan 2014, you need a planning application to raise your house 9.5 metres or more. Anything under 9.5 metres is considered minor building work.
Once your project is complete, you will also need a Form 16, a mandatory certificate that ensures the work has been inspected, complies with approved building plans and adheres to current Australian building standards and codes.
Furthermore, you will need to appoint a surveyor to determine the best positioning and height markings for pegs and posts. The surveyor plays a vital role in the entire house raising process, checking the positioning and alignment throughout.
Preparing Your House To Be Raised
Before your contractor arrives to lift your house, you will have to get the site ready for them.
- First, make sure the underneath of your house is clean. Remove all pipes, plumbing, ductwork and appliances to ensure there is a clear place to work.
- To prepare the inside of your home, pack away or secure any unsteady furniture or valuable materials. While the house raising process is slow and unlikely to damage any of your belongings, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Finally, disconnect all utilities, including power, water, gas and electricity. Mark the locations of underground gas lines, electrical lines, septic tanks and wells.
What Happens After You Raise Your House?
Raising your house in Queensland can serve to protect your home against floods or to add more space. No matter the reason why you choose to raise your house, you will have to take appropriate steps afterwards to carry out the rest of the building work.
If you want to keep your house raised for flood protection, your contractor can replace the temporary lifts with new foundations to permanently hold the house up higher than it was previously.
If you intend to add a lower level for storage, a garage or a basement, you will need to have a new foundation poured. You’ll need builders to frame the new walls, insulate and add drywall, and contractors to get the wiring and plumbing in order.
House Raising in Brisbane with Meier
With over 30 years of professional experience in the house raising industry, Meier House Removals is the company Brisbane residents trust. We’ll make all the connections you need to ensure your project meets council planning codes, building regulations, and your intentions.
Tap into Meier’s house raising expertise. To learn more, call us on 07 3849 1122.
