The ground under your home holds everything you’ve built — and yet, it’s the one thing many people forget to check. Without a soil test, no one really knows how the ground will react once the lifting starts.

If the soil is too soft or stays wet, the supports can slowly sink or shift, and that’s when cracks begin to show up in walls or floors.
That’s why it’s important to have a qualified engineer test the soil and inspect the structure before any lifting starts. It’s a small step that prevents a lot of stress later.

Ignoring Permits and Local Building Rules

Every area has its own building codes and safety rules. Some homeowners think they can skip the permits to save time, but that usually backfires. Without the right paperwork, projects get delayed, or you might even face fines.

Some cities also need flood-zone certificates and post-lift inspections to confirm safety. The easiest way to handle all this is to let your house lifting company take care of the permits and inspection reports. A good contractor will walk you through every step so you’re never left guessing what comes next.

Forgetting Utility Disconnections

Before the lifting begins, all gas, water, and electrical lines must be safely capped or rerouted. You may not realize it, but even one active line can create serious safety issues once the house starts moving.
That’s why professional house lifting teams double-check every utility connection before the lift. It keeps your home safe and avoids expensive surprises later.

Not Planning for Access and Space

Many homeowners forget that heavy equipment and steel beams need room to move around the property. Large trucks, cranes, and hydraulic systems can’t squeeze through tight spaces.
Besides that, things like fences, decks, or even small garden sheds sometimes need to be removed for clear access. Preparing early keeps your project on schedule and saves you from last-minute delays or extra costs.

Trying to Stay in the Home During the Lift

It might seem easier to stay inside while the work happens, but living in a house that’s being lifted is never a good idea. There’s no running water, power, or gas, and the constant vibration can make the whole place feel unstable.
It’s always better to find a safe place to stay for a few weeks while the team finishes the lift. You’ll be more comfortable, and the crew can work faster without worrying about anyone inside.

Choosing Low-Cost Over Quality

Saving money feels good at first, but when it comes to house lifting, cheap work usually ends up costing more later. Some companies offer low quotes by skipping proper safety steps or using poor-quality materials. That’s when cracks, leaks, or uneven foundations show up months after the project is done.

You may already know this, but the safest choice is to compare experience, equipment, and reviews, not just price. The right team may charge a little more, but they’ll handle every inch of the process with care — and that peace of mind is worth every dollar.

Ignoring Insurance and Documentation

Before anything begins, take clear photos and short videos of your home inside and out. It only takes a few minutes, but if something unexpected happens, those images can save you from long arguments or claim delays.

Besides that, make sure you fully understand the insurance — yours and your contractor’s. Ask questions until everything makes sense. It’s always better to be confident now than regret it later.

When you prepare like this, the whole process runs smoothly. You stay in control, you know what’s covered, and the team can focus on doing their job safely. In the end, solid planning really is half the job done.