House elevation process and timeline
What happens, in what order, and roughly how long each stage takes.
Stage by stage
| Stage | What happens | Typical time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Site visit and survey | We assess the house, lot and access. A surveyor confirms existing elevations. | 1 to 3 weeks |
| 2. Engineering and design | Structural engineer designs the lift and the new foundation to the required flood elevation. | 2 to 6 weeks |
| 3. Fixed price and contract | Written scope and 1 price, including stairs, utilities and access. | 1 week |
| 4. Permits | Building and floodplain permits from your city or county. | Varies by city |
| 5. Preparation | Move-out, utilities disconnected, site cleared, trenches dug. | 1 to 2 weeks |
| 6. Lift | Beams set and the house raised to height on cribbing. | A few days |
| 7. New foundation | Piers or columns built, cured and inspected. | 3 to 6 weeks |
| 8. Set down and reconnect | House set and anchored, utilities reconnected, stairs built. | 3 to 6 weeks |
| 9. Final inspection | Final inspections and a new elevation certificate. | 1 to 2 weeks |
These are typical ranges, not promises. Your schedule is written into your contract.
The elevation certificate
An elevation certificate records how high your lowest floor is compared with the flood level. Insurers use it to price flood insurance and permit offices use it to confirm compliance. A surveyor completes one before and after the work.
Living arrangements
You will need to move out from preparation until the utilities are reconnected and the house passes inspection. Grant programs and flood insurance sometimes help with temporary housing; check the rules of your program.
Questions we get asked
How long does a house elevation take?
Construction is often 2 to 4 months. Engineering, permits and any grant paperwork before construction can take several months more.
Who gets the permits?
We prepare and submit the permit applications with the engineer's drawings and handle inspections.
When can I move back in?
Once utilities are reconnected, stairs are built and the final inspection passes.
Tell us about your project
Sam or the team will call you back within 1 business day to talk it through and book a site visit.
281-326-9719