If you’re considering relocating a structure, whether it’s a home or a commercial building, you might wonder if it’s possible. The answer is yes, it is possible to relocate a structure such as your home – but it’s not always easy.
There are several factors to consider, and you should work with an experienced company focused on safety. Professional home movers like Associated Pacific Movers can help you with any questions and ease your fears about moving your home to a new spot.
Preparing to Relocate a House Structure
Relocating a structure requires careful planning and execution. Engineers will assess the building and determine the best way to move it. This assessment is not something that can be done quickly or without experience. So, make sure you do your homework when choosing a company to move your structure to.
Permits
Give yourself enough time to get the correct permits in place before you can start relocating your building. Permit fees will vary depending on the type of structure, its size, and where you are relocating the home. So, check the zoning laws for the state and county you are making your move to. The permits may make up as much as 30% of moving costs.
Calculating The Cost
Moving a structure will not be cheap. There are many factors to consider when calculating the cost. You need to know the cost of permits, the size of the structure, the distance it needs to travel, and the equipment required. You can get a few quotes from different companies before forming a decision. The final cost may be as little as five figures all the way up to $200,000.
Checking For Safety
The first step is determining if you can safely move a structure anywhere. The condition of the building must be strong enough to withstand the move. A good-conditioned building has to handle the stresses of being lifted and moved without sustaining damage.
Removing Certain Elements
Once movers have determined the building is safe enough for transport, they will have to disassemble any features that may not be able to stay intact during transport time. Such features include air conditioners, water heaters, and anything else permanently attached to the structure. You need to remove anything in the basement and any porch steps.
Analyzing the Route
After the building has been prepped for transport, it’s time to analyze the route. The route will be different for every structure, as it depends on the size of the building, the terrain, and obstacles along the way. Movers have to consider trees, roads, and electrical lines.
Once the route has been determined, the movers will need all the necessary permits in order.
Executing the Move
Once everything has been planned and prepped, it’s time to execute the move. This is when all the hard work pays off. The structure will be carefully lifted and placed on a transport vehicle. Movers will carefully take it to its new location, where they will lower it into place. In terms of timing, this move may take several hours or even a few days. The exact time depends on the size of the structure and the distance it needs to travel.
What Type of Homes Can You Relocate?
The most common types of homes that get relocated include:
Single-wide homes
These are the most common type of home owners choose to relocate. They are typically between 16 and 32 feet wide and can be moved in one piece.
Double-wide homes
These homes are between 32 and 80 feet wide and consists of two sections joined together. These homes may need to be transported in two pieces and then reassembled at the new location.
When it comes to saving historical houses, relocation may be a necessity when it’s the only way to preserve the structure. This move is often done in cases where development is planned for the land the house sits on. In these cases, it’s important to work with a company that has experience in relocating historical houses.
Sometimes when the foundation needs replacing, relocating the home may be the only option. This is because the structure needs to be lifted off the foundation in order to replace it.
The Pros and Cons of Relocating a House Structure
There are both pros and cons to relocating a house structure. Here are some of the most important things to consider:
Pros:
- Relocating a house can save it from being demolished.
- It’s a way to preserve historical houses.
- It can be less expensive than demolishing and rebuilding a house.
Cons:
- The process can be very expensive.
- Relocating a house can damage it.
- The house may not be able to be moved if it’s in bad condition.
How To Inspect Your Home After Relocation
After your home has reached its new spot, it’s important to inspect it for any damage. This inspection includes checking the foundation, the framing, the windows, and the doors. If you notice any damage, get it fixed as soon as possible.
It’s also a good idea to have an inspector come and check your home after it’s been moved. They will be able to identify any problems you may not have noticed.
In conclusion, structural relocation is possible when you do proper preparation, and use the right professionals. It’s a good way to save a house from demolition or move a great home to an equally awesome location. If you are considering moving your house or other structure, it is vital to use a safety-focused company.