Table of Contents
What Is Structure Relocation?
A structure relocation refers to the process of transferring a building or structure from one location to another.
There are two primary methods employed for moving a structure: disassembly and subsequent reassembly at the desired destination, or transportation of the entire structure as a whole.
In the latter approach, the building is first lifted and then either pushed on temporary rails or dollies for short distances, or transported on wheels, such as flatbed trucks, for longer distances.
These relocation endeavors can be intricate, necessitating the removal of protruding components like chimneys, and the navigation of obstacles en route, such as overhead cables and trees.
The motivations behind moving a building vary widely, ranging from commercial purposes such as scenic requirements, to the preservation of historically significant or important structures.
Building relocations may occur at the discretion of the owner, or to detach a building from its current plot of land.
Reasons Of Structure Relocation
There are various reasons of structure relocation. I have described the key reasons of structure relocation.
1. Development Of Cities:
In cities, when there isn’t much space, sometimes we have to move buildings instead of breaking them down.
This helps make room for new buildings or to improve the city. We move the building to another place instead of destroying it completely.
This way, we keep its history and special design.
2. Public Infrastructure projects:
Sometimes, when we want to build new things like roads, trains, or pipes, there might be buildings in the way.
Instead of breaking them completely, we move them to a different spot.
This makes it easier to build new things without destroying everything.
3. Historic preservation:
Old buildings that have a lot of history might be in danger because of new buildings or natural disasters.
To keep these buildings safe and save their stories, we move them to a new place.
This way, we make sure they are protected and can be enjoyed by people in the future.
4. Environmental concerns:
Sometimes, buildings are in places where there are a lot of floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes.
To keep people and the building safe, we may need to move it to a safer spot. This helps prevent damage and makes sure everyone is out of danger
Equipments Used In The Structure Relocation Process
The primary equipment utilized for the relocation of structures encompasses the following elements:
1. Temporary Steel Framework:
This involves a temporary steel framework designed to support the structure from underneath during the relocation process.
2. Hydraulic Jack Network:
A network of hydraulic jacks is strategically positioned beneath the attached steel framework to facilitate the lifting and movement of the structure.
3. Unified Jacking System:
A unified jacking system, comprising building jacks or screw jacks, is employed to elevate the structure from its foundation.
4. Wooden Beams (Cribs):
Wooden beams, commonly referred to as cribs or box cribs, are utilized to provide additional support during the relocation process.
5. Flatbed Truck or Hydraulic Dollies:
To transport the structure to its new location, either a flatbed truck or hydraulic dollies are employed, depending on the size and weight of the structure.
Structure Relocation Process
1. Site investigation:
Engineers and experts evaluate both the current and proposed locations to determine the feasibility of relocation, considering factors like structural integrity, accessibility, and potential challenges during the move.
2. Structural preparation:
The building is assessed and prepared for relocation. This may involve reinforcing the structure, removing or securing fragile components, and disconnecting utilities.
3. Lifting and transport:
Specialized equipment, such as hydraulic jacks and lifting beams, is used to raise the structure off its foundation. It is then loaded onto a transporter, such as a flatbed truck, barge, or hydraulic dolly, depending on the size and weight of the structure.
4. Transport and route planning:
The transport route is carefully planned to ensure the safe passage of the structure, taking into account any obstacles, such as bridges or power lines. Traffic control measures may be implemented, and permits may be required for oversized loads.
5. Setting down at the new site:
Once the structure reaches its destination, it is carefully lowered onto its new foundation. The building may need to be reconnected to utilities and undergo any necessary repairs or adjustments.
Structure Relocation Cost
Large-scale projects, such as the relocation of a house to a new site, often demand substantial financial resources that exceed the means of individuals or small-scale contractors. In such cases, project managers commonly seek assistance from banks and financial institutions to obtain the necessary funds. However, this process introduces a unique challenge: the house must be paid for before it can be moved from its current location, yet the lender cannot secure collateral (in this case, the house itself) until the project is completed and the house is on the new site. This situation significantly disrupts project progress and creates a short-term cash flow predicament.
The financial aspect of a house relocation project significantly influences its success. The costs involved in moving a house can be substantial, encompassing various expenses such as transportation, site preparation, permits, utility connections, and potential renovations or repairs. These costs generally surpass the immediate means of project stakeholders, necessitating external financing.
Banks and financial institutions play a vital role in providing the necessary capital to undertake such ambitious projects. They assess the viability and feasibility of the project, considering factors such as the market value of the house, the estimated relocation costs, and the potential value of the property after completion. Once satisfied with the project’s prospects, the bank agrees to finance the endeavor, typically through a loan.
The inherent challenge arises from the need to pay for the house before it can be moved to the new site. The house serves as collateral for the loan, providing security to the lender. Until the house is successfully relocated and situated on the new property, the bank cannot assume ownership or exercise its right to seize the property in case of default. Consequently, the lender is unable to secure the loan against the house until the project is completed.
This situation creates a short-term cash flow problem for project managers. They must find a way to cover the upfront costs required for the relocation, including disconnection from existing utilities, site preparation, and any other necessary expenditures. Simultaneously, they must manage the ongoing financial commitments, such as loan repayments, without the security of the property.
To overcome this challenge, project managers often need to explore alternative financing options or work closely with the bank to devise a solution. This may involve negotiating a temporary bridge loan, securing additional collateral, or finding other sources of funding to bridge the cash flow gap until the relocation is completed. Effective communication and collaboration among project stakeholders, financial institutions, and contractors are crucial in navigating this complex financial landscape.
Project consultant must carefully plan and manage the project’s timeline and cash flow to minimize the impact of this short-term financing issue. They need to ensure that the house relocation progresses efficiently and swiftly, enabling the completion and securing of the project within the shortest possible timeframe. Delays or complications in the relocation process can worsen the cash flow problem and potentially lead to project disruptions, increased costs, and strained relationships with financial partners.