House Leveling Resources for New Orleans Residents

House leveling is an essential process for homeowners in or around New Orleans, especially given the unique geographic challenges of the area. As the city sits below sea level and is prone to flooding, many homes experience foundation shifting, settling, or structural imbalances over time. If you’re a resident facing issues with your home’s foundation, this guide walks you through essential resources and the entire process of house leveling.

Understanding House Leveling and Why It’s Important

House leveling refers to the process of restoring a house to its original level or correcting the slope of the foundation. Homes in areas like New Orleans are particularly susceptible to foundation issues due to soil erosion, moisture saturation, and the naturally soft, shifting ground. Signs that your house may need leveling include cracks in walls, doors that don’t close properly, and sloping floors. Left unaddressed, these issues can lead to more severe structural damage and costly repairs.

Key Resources for House Leveling in New Orleans

Before starting your house leveling project, it’s important to gather the right resources and contacts. Below is a comprehensive list of services, financial assistance, and permits required for homeowners in or near New Orleans.

1. Local Contractors Specializing in House Leveling

Finding the right contractor is critical for ensuring your house leveling project is completed safely and effectively. Look for contractors with experience in the New Orleans area, as they will be familiar with the city’s unique foundation challenges. Here are a few reputable contractors who specialize in house leveling:

• Academy House Leveling: Specializing in house leveling and foundation repair, they offer free consultations and are based in New Orleans.
• Orleans Foundation Repair: Known for working with the specific soil conditions in the region.
• The Foundation Doctor: Offers comprehensive assessments and uses advanced technologies to lift and stabilize homes.

When choosing a contractor, make sure to request an initial inspection and get multiple quotes to compare services and pricing.

2. Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors

It is vital to ensure that the contractor you hire is licensed and insured. The Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors provides an online directory where you can verify contractors’ licenses and review any complaints or issues against them. Website: LSLBC Online Contractor Search

3. Permits and City Regulations

House leveling is considered a major construction project in New Orleans and typically requires permits. These can be obtained through the city’s Department of Safety and Permits. You’ll need to file for a structural permit, and in some cases, a floodplain management review will also be required to ensure your project adheres to FEMA guidelines.

• New Orleans Department of Safety and Permits: City of New Orleans Permits
• Floodplain Management Office: Contact this office if your property is located in a high-risk flood zone.

4. Financial Assistance and Grant Programs

The cost of house leveling can be significant, ranging from $3,500 to over $30,000 depending on the extent of the foundation issues. Fortunately, several financial assistance programs are available for homeowners in New Orleans:

• Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF): This program offers grants to homeowners who need to make repairs due to hurricane or flood damage.
• FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA): This federal program can help cover the costs of raising or leveling homes to protect against future flood damage. It’s particularly useful for homeowners in flood-prone areas.
• Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): Homeowners who need immediate repairs may consider this option for financing their house leveling project.

Always explore multiple financial options to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.

The Step-by-Step Process of House Leveling

1. Initial Inspection and Assessment

The first step in the house leveling process is having a professional foundation expert assess the extent of the damage. This involves checking the structural integrity of your home, measuring the slope of the foundation, and identifying any cracks or weak points. Tip: Many contractors offer free consultations. Be sure to take advantage of these to compare services.

2. Soil and Foundation Analysis

In New Orleans, the type of soil your home is built on plays a significant role in foundation stability. Before the leveling process begins, a detailed soil analysis may be required to understand what measures need to be taken for a successful lift.

3. Lifting the Home

The actual house leveling process involves lifting the structure with hydraulic jacks. In some cases, piers or pilings may be driven deep into the ground to provide additional support. This step is crucial for ensuring that the foundation is permanently stabilized.

4. Foundation Repairs

Once the house is level, any cracks in the foundation are repaired, and support beams may be reinforced. If your home is prone to future flooding or shifting, additional waterproofing or drainage systems may be installed.

5. Final Inspection and Warranty

After the leveling is complete, a final inspection will be performed by both the contractor and the city (if required) to ensure that everything is up to code. Most contractors will offer a warranty, which can range from 10 years to a lifetime guarantee.

Post-Project Maintenance and Care

Once your home has been leveled, it’s important to take steps to maintain its stability. Regular inspections of your foundation, along with checking for leaks or soil erosion, are crucial. Ensure that your home’s drainage systems are in good working order to prevent water from pooling near the foundation, which can lead to future issues.

1. Install Proper Drainage Systems

Water is one of the primary causes of foundation problems in New Orleans, so installing French drains or a sump pump can help divert water away from your foundation.

2. Regular Foundation Inspections

Have a professional inspect your foundation every few years, particularly after major storms or floods. Early detection of foundation shifts or cracks can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Additional Resources

• FEMA Flood Map Service Center: Check whether your property is in a high-risk flood zone. FEMA Map Service
• Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP): Provides assistance for homeowners recovering from natural disasters. GOHSEP Website

Conclusion: Protecting Your Home’s Future

House leveling is not just a necessary repair; it’s a crucial step in protecting your home from future damage, particularly in an area as vulnerable to natural disasters as New Orleans. By gathering the right resources, hiring the best contractors, and securing financial assistance, you can ensure that your home remains safe, stable, and secure for years to come. Take action today by scheduling an inspection, securing the necessary permits, and exploring your financial options to begin your house leveling journey with confidence.