Home renovations can be an exciting way to increase space, improve functionality, and boost property value. For many Australian homeowners, particularly in Brisbane and flood-prone areas of NSW, lifting a house and building underneath has become a practical and popular solution. Not only does this approach create additional living space, but it also protects homes from potential flood damage, making them more resilient for years to come.
At Renovare, we specialise in house raising and building under, helping families transform and safeguard their homes efficiently. From planning and approvals to building works and finishing touches, our structured approach ensures both quality and peace of mind.
What Lift and Build Under Means
When we talk about lifting a house and building under, we’re talking about raising your home to a legal height and constructing additional living space underneath. We use structural steel or posts to lift the house, then build new rooms on a concrete slab or subfloor, creating a fully functional ground floor.
Almost any home built on stumps can be lifted, but local council rules do determine maximum heights, so it’s important to plan carefully.
It’s also essential to get it right. A poorly executed lift can cause serious structural damage. That’s why it’s so important to work with experienced builders like Renovare, who specialise in house raising. We ensure your upper floor is secure and your new ground floor is built properly, adding real value to your property.
Why People Choose House Lifting
We get asked all the time why homeowners decide to lift their house and build underneath. The truth is, there are plenty of reasons, but it always comes back to three things: extra space, structural security, and protection from environmental risks. And the best part? You get to stay in the home and neighbourhood you love.
Here’s what we see most often:
- Limited land: If you don’t have space to extend sideways, building underneath makes the most of the land you’ve got, keeping your yard intact.
- Structural constraints: Some homes can’t support a second storey on top. By lifting and building underneath, we create functional space without compromising your home’s stability.
- Flood protection: For many Brisbane and NSW homeowners, flooding is a real concern. Raising your home above predicted flood levels protects both your property and possessions. We lift your home onto new stumps or stilts, allowing water to flow freely underneath. This not only creates additional space below but, in many cases, can also lower your flood insurance premiums.
- Foundation improvement: Older homes often sit on slabs or cinder block foundations that can crack or shift. Raising the house gives us the chance to pour a stronger, more stable foundation underneath.
- Creating space: Families often need extra bedrooms, a home office, or living areas. Lifting your home gives us a blank canvas to create rooms that suit your lifestyle.
- Maintaining outdoor space: Side extensions can eat up your garden, pool, or entertaining area. Lifting your home preserves outdoor space while giving you more indoor living areas.
- Lifestyle and comfort: In Brisbane summers, the lower areas of a lifted home stay cooler. Lifting also lets you redesign your layout to match modern living and family needs.
- Investment potential: Adding a lower level can significantly increase your property’s value, providing a solid return while improving day-to-day comfort.
Raising your home is a smart, practical solution that solves multiple problems at once. More space, a safer home, and a layout that works for your family without having to move. That’s why so many homeowners choose it!
The Building Process with Renovare
At Renovare, our Concept, Approval, Build process is at the heart of every project. It keeps everything running smoothly, on time, and to the highest quality standards. Here’s how it works:
- Concept
We start with a consultation to understand your goals. Our team prepares detailed, tailored designs to ensure your vision aligns with council regulations and long-term structural safety. - Approval
We manage all council approvals, permits, and compliance checks so you don’t have to. This takes the stress out of paperwork and ensures construction can begin without delays. - Build
Once approvals are in place, we safely lift your home using hydraulic jacks and temporary supports. Homes can be repositioned slightly across the block to maximise yard space or accommodate features like pools or driveways. After lifting, we construct new footings, floors, and rooms, integrating plumbing, electrical work, and insulation. The final finishes can either match your upper level for continuity or create a modern contrast that showcases contemporary design.
For examples of our work, check out our project gallery.
The Timeframe
The duration depends on the scope of work. Simple lifting generally takes four to six months, while lifting and building a full lower level typically runs from six to ten months. Homeowners must plan for temporary relocation during construction, and we manage this efficiently to minimise disruption.
This process guarantees structural integrity, quality craftsmanship, and a final result that complements your existing home.
Cost and ROI Conversation
We understand that lift and build under projects are a big investment, and it’s important to weigh the costs against the potential returns. Project costs vary depending on home size and style, site access, flood zone requirements, and interior renovations. Typical ranges include:
- Raising only: up to $150,000
- Raising with a new foundation: up to $500,000
- Raising and building a full lower level: Around $800,000 or more, depending on excavation, retaining work and fit-out
Other factors that affect costs include home size and weight, site access and retaining wall requirements, flood protection needs, labour, permits, and your choice of finishes. We provide detailed, tailored quotes so there are no surprises and you know exactly what to expect.
The upside? The ROI is often compelling. Lift and build under projects:
- Increase usable living space
- Add bedrooms and bathrooms
- Improve street presence
- Create flood-resilient homes in Brisbane, Queensland, and NSW
Flood protection can reduce insurance premiums, and thoughtful design and quality construction ensure your investment pays off for years, both financially and in lifestyle.
Case study: This example is for one of Renovare’s recently completed projects at Wavell Heights, where the team raised a Queenslander and built a functional lower level for the customer.
- Cost: $900,000
- Added bedrooms/bathrooms: Two bedrooms and two bathrooms
- Added a living area and a kitchen to the ground floor
- Added media room to the ground floor
- Added carport, alfresco & pool externally
- Estimated increase in property value after cost of renovation: $350,000
In this case, we were not just adding space—we were improving comfort, functionality, and long-term resale potential.
At Renovare, we work closely with homeowners to understand costs and expected returns so you can make confident decisions.
Get Started With Renovare Today!
Raising homes is a smart, practical way to expand living space, improve structural stability, protect against flood risk, and increase property value.
Our build process ensures your project runs smoothly, safely, and to the highest standard. From consultation to approvals, construction, and finishing touches, we handle the complex parts so you can enjoy the transformation.
If you’re ready to add space, protect your home, and boost its value, talk to your local Renovare team today. Our experienced builders across QLD and NSW are ready to guide you through your lift and build under project with confidence.
Contact Renovare on 1300 049 516 to book your free consultation.