Understanding and Succeeding in Raising a Building

The raising of a building is an increasingly popular solution to address the housing crisis, optimize available space, and increase urban density. This type of project may seem complex, but with proper planning and an understanding of current regulations, it is entirely achievable. This article will detail the various steps and considerations necessary to successfully raise your house.

The Benefits of Raising a Building

Increasing the living space without encroaching on the existing land is one of the main advantages of raising a building. Whether it's to expand your family, create a workspace, or even add an extra studio, the possibilities are numerous and varied. Additionally, when renovating your roof, you also have the opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your home by choosing modern insulating materials.

Space Optimization

In urban areas where buildable land is rare and expensive, raising a building becomes an ideal option. By adding a floor, new spaces are created without sacrificing valuable garden space or encroaching on the road.

Indeed, this approach is particularly beneficial in large cities where the property density is already high. Families can stay in their neighborhood or city without having to search for larger homes elsewhere.

Increasing Property Value

In addition to optimizing space, raising a building adds value to your property. An additional floor represents a significant added value in case of future resale. It is crucial to note that these works must be carried out by qualified professionals to maximize this increase in value.

Moreover, this allows for the integration of environmentally friendly technologies and building materials, which can also attract buyers concerned about their ecological footprint.

Key Stages of a Raising Project

Before you get started, it is essential to follow certain fundamental steps to ensure the success of your raising project.

Feasibility Study

The first step is to conduct a technical and financial feasibility study. This study must include a structural analysis of the building to verify if it can support the additional load. Engaging a structural engineer or an architect is a good idea at this stage.

Once the viability is confirmed, a detailed budget must be established. This will include costs related to materials, labor, and any necessary modifications to the existing building.

Obtaining Permits

This type of work requires several administrative permits. Depending on the size and location of the project, a building permit or a prior declaration of work will be necessary. This is where local urban planning regulations come into play, and often approval from the general assembly of co-owners is required if you live in a shared building.

It is crucial to understand and respect urban planning regulations. The ALUR law, for example, facilitates certain projects by easing regulatory constraints to promote urban density. However, it also imposes specific conditions depending on the locality.

Practical Tips for Success

Good preparation and careful monitoring will make all the difference. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

• Consult Experts: Work with professionals such as architects, structural engineers, and specialized contractors to ensure that the project is not only feasible but also safe and compliant with regulations.
• Constant Communication: Stay in regular communication with all the stakeholders involved in the project to manage unforeseen events and adjust the plan as needed.
• Budget Planning: Always budget an additional 10 to 15% for unexpected expenses.
• Administrative Care: Be methodical with administrative tasks and keep a thorough record of all required documents to avoid delays.

Impact on Energy Efficiency

Raising a building can greatly improve the energy performance of your home, especially if it is accompanied by insulation work. External thermal insulation (ETI) during the raising process helps limit energy loss and reduce your heating bills.

Various eco-friendly materials can be used for insulation, making your new extension greener and more efficient. Additionally, installing double or triple-glazed windows and using photovoltaic solar panels can enhance the overall energy efficiency of your home.

Insulation and Materials

Choosing materials is a crucial step during the raising process. Wood, for example, is an excellent option due to its lightness, flexibility, and natural insulating properties. Other materials like steel or cellular concrete can also be considered depending on the specific needs of your project.

Investing in high-quality materials will provide better acoustic and thermal insulation. Solutions like rock wool, wood fiber, or vacuum-insulated panels offer excellent performance in this regard.

Renewable Energy

Also, consider integrating renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic panels. These installations can not only provide part of the electricity needed for your home but are also encouraged and subsidized by many government programs.

While this may represent a significant initial investment, it will be largely recouped in the long term through energy savings.

Special Cases: Co-ownership and Urban Planning

If you live in a co-ownership, a favorable vote at the general assembly of co-owners is essential before starting the raising process. You will need to present a complete file, including plans, technical studies, and financial estimates, to obtain approval from all co-owners.

This step can sometimes be tricky, as each owner has a say, and legitimate concerns about safety, building aesthetics, or costs may arise. Don’t hesitate to arrange preliminary meetings to discuss concerns and show the added value of such work for the entire co-ownership.

Negotiating and Convincing

To convince your fellow co-owners, highlight the common benefits, such as possible reductions in shared charges due to the resale of the newly created space, or the improvement in energy performance that would benefit everyone. Show successful concrete examples and emphasize the overall positive financial impact for all.

Additionally, proposing an enhanced landscaping plan or adding desirable features like an elevator or additional balconies may help gain general approval.

Urban Planning and Legislation

Compliance with the Local Urban Plan (PLU) is crucial for a building permit to be granted. The PLU dictates maximum heights, acceptable architectural forms, and minimum distances from neighbors. Ensure that the project complies with all these constraints from the outset to avoid costly refusals in terms of time and money.

Finally, don’t forget to check for any servitudes related to your building, which may restrict the possibility of raising it. Consulting a lawyer specialized in real estate law may sometimes be necessary to clarify these legal aspects.

Innovative and Sustainable Solutions

Technological innovations have revolutionized the construction field. Today, modular construction methods allow for faster and less invasive raising. Prefabricated components are assembled on-site, minimizing disruptions for current occupants and reducing the overall duration of the work.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Opting for eco-friendly materials is not only good for the environment, but it can also bring you financial benefits in the medium and long term. Environmental certifications increase the value of properties, attracting potential buyers who are sensitive to these issues.

Options like green roofs also offer attractive benefits, such as better thermal regulation and optimized rainwater management.

Smart Technologies

Incorporating smart technologies into your new level is a great idea. Lighting control, heating optimization, and intelligent home systems provide superior comfort, while increasing the efficiency of your building.

All these elements together contribute to making your project a more sustainable, efficient, and valuable investment in the future.