What to understand
For the JAS preliminary estimator, use the footprint of the structure physically being lifted. Do not add a second story simply because it sits above that footprint. A two-story 4,000-square-foot home over a 2,000-square-foot footprint may use 2,000 square feet. Include attached portions only if they are in the lifting scope. The slab area for new lower-level work can be different from the lifted footprint.
What to ask about your property
What is the existing condition? What further investigation is needed? Which parts of the proposed work depend on engineering, site access or local approval? Bring these questions to the project review.
Written by JAS Builders · Educational overview · Reviewed September 17, 2026. The video is from the JAS video library; this text is an overview, not a verbatim transcript.
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