Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, engineering is required to ensure the new structure is stable, able to withstand strong winds and storms and that the site soil types are identified to ensure the correct foundation designs are applied. It is important to note that all design works need to meet current local Building Codes, this is to ensure that all necessary approvals can be achieved.

Before starting work on site, a Building Application (BA) should be lodged with the local Council. This can be done for you by your builder or through a private certifier. The building application may cover all works done on site and any renovation works. The builder or certifier will manage the approval process, undertake inspections at key stages, and take responsibility for gaining final approval from Council. If the house is being moved on the site to allow for additional development the Development Application (DA) will also need to be lodged with the local Council and approval gained prior to commencing works. 

It is common during the house raising process for some damage to occur, particularly if the existing structure has subsided or twisted on the existing footings. Pro-Jax will provide a dilapidation report at the beginning of the project to identify existing issues and possible remedial actions. Pro-Jax will take responsibility for any additional damage (not identified in the dilapidation report) that may occur during the lifting process. This approach provides clarity and identifies any additional costs prior to the works commencing.

Yes, you can be an owner builder for all works undertaken on your home. However, it is important to engage appropriately licenced and experienced subcontractors to undertake specialist works such as house raising. In this instance, Pro-Jax would act as a sub-contractor under your building licence.

Yes, you can be an owner builder for all works undertaken on your home. However, it is important to engage appropriately licenced and experienced subcontractors to undertake specialist works such as house raising. In this instance, Pro-Jax would act as a sub-contractor under your building licence.

Pro-Jax can raise a house 7 metres above the existing ground level, however, the optimum height will need to consider local town planning constraints (such as maximum overall height for residential buildings), opportunities for views, and the best solar orientation.

The structural components that support the house can be designed to allow you to build under at some future time. Generally, the most cost-effective approach is to construct the lower level floor slab as an integral part of the house raising works. To avoid any unnecessary costs, the final design should be agreed when the structural design work is done. This will ensure that stairs or steps are correctly located in stage 1 and that services are located to suit the ultimate design of the residence. It is also essential to understand the final design so that columns and beams can be placed in the correct position. Moving or removing columns in the future can be very expensive.

Pro-Jax innovative lifting systems can accommodate sloping sites, or sites where the access is difficult. Our structural team will engineer the raising of your house to ensure the new house is safe and strong, both during the lifting work and at final height.

Electrical and plumbing services will be disconnected and capped by licenced tradespeople, then extended and reconnected as required.

The dilapidation report identifies potential building issues that may result during the lift. Subject to these issues being addressed appropriately, Pro-Jax will guarantee that your house is lifted safely and will bear the cost of any damage not identified in the dilapidation report. We can also provide additional insurance (at cost) to ensure that your property is protected from external threats or events such as earthquakes, storms, fire, theft or malicious damage during the lift.

Yes, the spacing of the existing supporting columns or piers need not restrict the design of the new lower level. The new structure can be designed to accommodate an open plan layout with the majority of the structural components aligned with external walls or elements such as staircases. However, the inclusion of some internal supports or walls may reduce the overall cost of the project.

The Pro-Jax team recommend that you move out of your house while the works are being undertaken. Access to particular areas of your property can be arranged during construction if required.

No, it is possible to leave all your furniture and belongings in the upper level while your house is being raised. However, it will be necessary to move all goods, equipment and other materials located under the existing floor.

Typically, a cottage can be lifted and secured in final position in 3-4 weeks. However, every project is different and the duration of the project will relate to the size of the house, design complexity and the extent of other development or renovations being undertaken at the time. The Contract will state the period of engagement for your particular project.