What Is A Moving House Called?

When people refer to a “moving house,” they’re not talking about packing up belongings and switching addresses—they’re often describing the process of physically relocating an entire structure from one place to another.

But what is this process officially called? The technical term for moving a house is structural relocation or house moving. This involves lifting the house from its original foundation and transporting it to a new location, either intact or in sections.

In this article, we’ll explore the terminology associated with house moving, explain the steps involved in the process, and discuss when and why homeowners choose to relocate their entire home.

Key Takeaways

The process of physically relocating a house is known as house moving or structural relocation.
This involves lifting the entire structure off its foundation and moving it to a new location using specialized equipment.
House moving is often necessary due to land development, flood risks, or historical preservation.

What Is the Process of Moving a House Called?

The act of moving an entire house from one location to another is typically referred to as house moving, structural relocation, or building relocation. All of these terms describe the same process: physically lifting a house off its foundation and transporting it, either intact or in sections, to a new site. The term “structural relocation” is often used in more formal or technical contexts, while “house moving” is more commonly used in everyday language.

Building Relocation: This term is often used when non-residential structures, such as schools or historical buildings, are relocated.
Structural Lifting: This refers to the process of raising the house off its foundation, typically using hydraulic jacks, before transporting it.
House Lifting: Similar to structural lifting, this term is used when a house is raised, either for the purpose of relocation or to elevate it for flood protection.
Modular Home Relocation: Modular homes, which are built in sections, can also be moved, and the process is referred to as modular home relocation.

Why Is It Called “House Moving”?

The term “house moving” is used because it accurately describes the process of moving an entire residential structure from one location to another. Unlike traditional moving, which involves transporting belongings from one house to another, house moving involves relocating the actual structure itself. The house is typically moved using specialized trailers, dollies, and hydraulic jacks, allowing the building to be transported to a new foundation without being dismantled.

Why Would a House Be Moved?

There are several reasons why homeowners or developers might choose to move a house rather than demolish it or leave it behind. Here are some common scenarios where structural relocation is the best option:

1. Land Development or Zoning Changes

In some cases, a house needs to be moved to make way for new construction or land development. For example, if a highway or shopping center is being built on the land where the house currently stands, moving the house to a new location can preserve the structure while allowing development to continue.

2. Flood Risks or Natural Disasters

Houses in flood-prone areas, like the Texas Gulf Coast, are often moved to higher ground to protect them from future flooding. This is particularly common after flood zones have been redefined or when homeowners want to safeguard their property from recurring natural disasters.

3. Historical Preservation

Historical buildings or homes with significant architectural value are often moved to protect them from demolition or environmental threats. By relocating the structure, homeowners or preservationists can ensure that the building remains intact and continues to be appreciated for its historical importance.

4. Personal Preferences or Family Land

Some homeowners choose to move their house because they have acquired new land, such as family property, and prefer to bring their existing home with them. In these cases, moving the house is a way to keep the structure and memories associated with it, while relocating to a more desirable location.

How Is a House Moved?

The process of moving a house involves several stages, each requiring careful planning and specialized equipment. Here’s a step-by-step look at how house moving, or structural relocation, works:

1. Initial Consultation and Assessment

The first step in moving a house is conducting an assessment of the building’s structure and the logistics of the move. The house moving company will evaluate the size, weight, and condition of the house to determine whether it’s suitable for relocation. They’ll also plan the route and identify any obstacles that could affect the move.

Key Assessment Factors:

House Size and Weight: Larger and heavier houses require more planning and equipment to ensure they can be safely lifted and transported.
Structural Integrity: The moving team will assess whether the house is strong enough to be moved without sustaining damage.
Route Planning: The movers will identify obstacles like power lines, bridges, or narrow roads that could impact the transportation phase.

2. Securing Permits

Before the house can be moved, the necessary permits must be obtained from local authorities. These permits ensure that the move complies with zoning regulations, road safety laws, and environmental guidelines. Permits are especially important if the house needs to cross public roads or highways.

3. Disconnecting Utilities and Preparing the House

Once the permits are secured, the house must be prepared for the move. This involves disconnecting utilities such as water, electricity, and gas, as well as removing any attached structures that can’t be moved, such as decks or garages.

4. Lifting the House

The next step is lifting the house off its foundation. This is done using hydraulic jacks, which are strategically placed under the house to raise it slowly and evenly. Once lifted, the house is placed on heavy-duty dollies or a specialized trailer for transport.

Lifting Process:

Hydraulic Jacks: These jacks lift the house in small, controlled increments to ensure the structure remains stable during the lift.
Cribbing: Temporary support beams, known as cribbing, are used to hold the house in place once it’s been lifted off the foundation.

5. Transporting the House

Once the house is lifted, it’s transported to its new location using specialized trailers or dollies. The transportation phase can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the distance of the move and any obstacles along the route.

Transportation Considerations:

Route Complexity: The movers must navigate any obstacles such as narrow roads, power lines, or bridges. In some cases, traffic control teams or utility companies may need to assist with removing or adjusting obstacles.
Weather Conditions: The timing of the move may be influenced by weather conditions, as heavy rain or high winds can complicate the transportation process.

6. Placing the House on Its New Foundation

Once the house reaches its destination, it’s carefully lowered onto its new foundation. This process requires precision to ensure that the house is properly aligned and secured to the foundation.

Final Placement Steps:

Foundation Preparation: A new foundation must be built at the destination site to accommodate the house. The foundation is constructed to match the original foundation’s size and design.
Lowering the House: Hydraulic jacks are used to slowly lower the house onto the new foundation, ensuring it is level and secure.
Final Adjustments: The moving team will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the house is stable and ready for occupancy.

How Long Does It Take to Move a House?

The timeline for moving a house can vary depending on factors such as the size of the house, the distance of the move, and any obstacles along the route. On average, the entire process—from planning and preparation to transportation and final placement—can take anywhere from one to several weeks.

Average Timeline for Each Stage:

Planning and Permits: 2 to 4 weeks
House Preparation and Lifting: 3 to 7 days
Transportation: 1 to 3 days for local moves
Final Placement and Adjustments: 2 to 5 days

Conclusion

So, what is a moving house called? The process of relocating an entire structure is known as house moving, structural relocation, or building relocation. Whether it’s done to protect a house from flood risks, preserve a historical building, or accommodate land development, moving a house is a complex but feasible option for homeowners looking to relocate without losing their existing structure.

With careful planning and the expertise of a professional house moving company like TerraFirm Leveling, your house can be safely and efficiently relocated to its new home, preserving its integrity and value for years to come.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to move a house?

The cost of moving a house varies depending on factors such as the size of the house, the distance of the move, and the complexity of the project. On average, costs range from $12,000 to $200,000.

2. Can any house be moved?

Not all houses are suitable for moving. The structure must be stable enough to withstand the lifting and transportation process. A professional assessment is necessary to determine whether a house is a good candidate for relocation.

3. What permits are required to move a house?

Permits are typically required to move a house across public roads or highways. These permits ensure the move complies with zoning laws and road safety regulations. The house moving company will handle the permit process.

4. How long does it take to move a house?

The process of moving a house can take anywhere from one to several weeks, depending on factors such as the size of the house, the distance of the move, and any obstacles that need to be addressed.

5. Can a house be moved long distances?

Yes, houses can be moved long distances, but the process is more complex and may require additional permits, route planning, and transportation logistics. Long-distance moves typically take longer to complete.

What Is A Moving House Called? | Moving Houses Explained