How to Move a House
You may love your home--but not the neighborhood. Maybe it's a historic house. Or, maybe your family is relocating but you can't bear to leave the family home behind. Whatever your reason, moving a house is possible but it's a tremendous undertaking. Based on the logistics alone, it can be intimidating. Read on to learn how to move a house. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Take into account your home's specifications. It may weigh several tons. Determine if it is a solid structure and note it if is more than one story. That makes a difference in the cost and difficulty of the move.
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Bring in a structural specialist. Before proceeding, you need to make sure the house can handle a move. There will be a lot of strain put on the floor joists. The same goes for the house's frame. If it's not structurally capable, you'll be left with a huge repair project afterward.
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Consider the cost. The move alone usually runs between $8,000 to $50,000. This doesn't include disconnecting the utilities or other extras. Bring in moving specialists to give you an estimate.
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Talk to your insurance agent and local zoning office. You need all the paperwork done in advance, to make sure your move is legal. Find out what the insurance and building requirements are, and obtain necessary permits.
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Hire contractors to prepare the house. Everything needs to be disconnected. That includes plumbing and wiring. They will also have to prepare the foundation and drywall supports. You'll need the crew to come back once the house is moved to reconnect everything.
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Map out the route. Utility companies may have to move power lines out of the way. Once you've mapped it out, contact your utility companies for a cost estimate.
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Contact a moving professional. This is not a project to leave to novices. You need specialists with timbers and jacks, who know how to lift and support the house. It will then be towed to its destination.
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Tips & Warnings
A professional moving specialist can recommend qualified contractors to help with your move.
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Comments
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Spunky313
Feb 22, 2008
This was very helpful to me. I am embarking on such a project. Thanks, -
Spunky313
Feb 22, 2008
This was very helpful to me. I am embarking on such a project. Thanks,
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Mary Ann Iman
Oct 23, 2007
Great article. I have moved a lot and to me it's ALWAYS a major project. Thanks for the tips.
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Booterfly
Oct 23, 2007
My husband used to own a moving company for about 15 years and one of the questions I heard asked a lot from customers was 'Do I need to empty the dresser drawers?'. We used to tell them that as long as there were just clothing items, they could leave them as is. Anything other than that should be packed. On moving day, the movers would typically put a long strip of tape over the drawers so that they don't open while moving. The tape that you can get from moving stores (i.e., Uhaul etc.), will not damage the wood and generally comes off easily. Same thing applies with file cabinets. A good tip for packing pictures (large) and mirrors: Take a box that is close to the size of the item and flatten it out. Use it like an envelope and slide the picture/mirror inside, wind tape around box so that both open ends are secure.
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julie_c_228
Oct 23, 2007
Great article! Lots of really useful tips. Thanks for sharing your common sense and step by step ideas.
