Home Elevation & Flood Rebuild Plans
Got a substantial-damage letter after Helene or Milton? We draw the plans to raise or rebuild your home to today's flood rules, and we work alongside your lift contractor and engineer.
Plans for Raising or Rebuilding a Flood-Damaged Home
After the 2024 hurricanes, more than 1,400 Pinellas County homes were ruled substantially damaged under the 50% rule (Tampa Bay Times). Each of those homes has to be raised or rebuilt to current flood rules before it can be repaired, and each one needs a new set of permit drawings.
We have drawn homes in Tampa Bay since 1986. For an elevation or rebuild, we measure the existing house, draw it at the required floor height, and coordinate with a Florida-licensed engineer who designs and seals the foundation. We design and draft; we don't build, so we work with your lift contractor or builder, not in place of them.
What the Plan Set Includes
Common Questions
What is the 50% rule for flood-damaged homes?
In a flood zone, if the cost to repair or improve a home is 50% or more of the building's market value, the local building department treats it as a substantial damage or substantial improvement. The whole home then has to meet current flood rules, which usually means raising it or rebuilding it at the required elevation. That work needs a new set of plans.
Do I need new plans to raise my house?
Yes. Raising a home needs permit drawings that show the new floor height, the new foundation, stairs and access, and how utilities are moved above the flood level. We draw those plans, and a Florida-licensed engineer we coordinate with designs and seals the foundation and structural sheets.
Should I raise my house or tear it down and rebuild?
It depends on the condition of the house, the height it has to go up, and the cost of each option. We can draw plans for either path and help you and your contractor compare them before you commit.
Do you work with house-lifting contractors?
Yes. Lift contractors need a complete drawing set before they can pull a permit. We work alongside your lift contractor and engineer so the plans match how the house will actually be raised.
Can flood insurance help pay for the plans?
If you carry a National Flood Insurance Program policy and your home was declared substantially damaged, Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage can pay up to $30,000 toward bringing it up to code, including elevation. Ask your insurance agent how your claim applies.
Which areas do you cover for elevation and rebuild plans?
Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties, including St. Petersburg, Treasure Island, St. Pete Beach, Madeira Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Clearwater, and Tampa.
Building new instead? See custom home design or read our guide to flood zones and finished floor elevation.
Get Elevation Plans Quoted
Lift contractor or builder?
We draw plan sets for contractors too. Call to talk through your next job.
727-643-0341Builder & contractor drafting