How House Relocation Helps Clear Your Site Without Wasting a Good Home

Many property owners assume demolition is the only way to make space for a new build.
But there's a more sustainable, cost-effective option — house relocation.

1. The Problem: Clearing Sites Often = Demolition

Many perfectly good houses are being demolished in the big cities to make way for development projects. Examples include high density housing or new builds.
Unfortunately this can add a significant amount of waste to our landfills. (anywhere from 12-20+ tonnes in fact!)  In todays world we do not need more stress on the environment.

2. The Alternative: Relocate Instead of Demolish

Many homes in NZ can actually be relocated and repurposed again. If the house is still structurally sound, it makes a good option for affordable housing.
This involves lifting the dwelling off its original foundations and loading it on the back of a truck. It’ll then be stored and resold for another owner to enjoy for many more years.

Here’s an example of how a house was smartly removed from its site in Glenfield to make way for a new build. 
Instead of ending up as landfill, this home was relocated and will have a second life and be added to the much-needed housing stock in another location of the North Island.

3. The Benefits

Every time we move a house, we’re not just shifting timber and nails—we’re reducing waste, creating sustainable housing solutions. In a world where house demolition often feels like the easy option, we’re proving that relocation is a smarter.

This also means more money in the developers pocket. Demolition can cost anywhere from 10,000-20,000+. With house removal, the removal company often pays the developer and will remove it off it’s site, meaning more funds towards the project.

If you're planning a development, house relocation might be a win–win — for your budget, your timeline, and the environment.

If you're unsure whether your house is suitable for relocation, it's worth speaking to a trusted removal company early in the process. 

At Houses On The Move, we’re happy to offer advice and explore options that could save you money and give your home a second life.