How Do I Find The Building Plans For My House : Plans Layout

How Do I Find the Building Plans for My House?

Whether you're planning a renovation, addition, or simply curious about the history of your home, obtaining the building plans can provide valuable insights into its design and construction. Finding these plans can involve a bit of research but is often well worth the effort.

Contact Local Authorities

Start your search by reaching out to the local building department or planning agency. They typically maintain records of building permits issued for properties within their jurisdiction, which may include the original construction plans. Fees may apply for retrieving copies of these plans.

Check with the Homeowner's Association

If your home is part of a homeowners' association (HOA), they may have a copy of the original building plans on file. Contact the HOA management company to inquire about obtaining copies.

Explore County Records

Older homes may have their building plans filed with the county recorder's office. Visit the county website or visit the office in person to search for records related to your property. The records may include the original blueprints or other construction documents.

Inquire with the Builder or Architect

If the homebuilder or architect who constructed your house is still in business, they may have retained copies of the building plans. Contact them to inquire about the availability of these plans.

Ask the Previous Owner

The previous owner of your house may have kept a copy of the building plans. Reach out to them to see if they still have them and are willing to share them.

Hire a Professional

If you're unable to locate the building plans through the methods mentioned above, consider hiring a professional home inspector or architect. They have experience in accessing public records and locating hidden construction documents. This option typically involves a fee but can save you time and effort.

Additional Tips

Be prepared to provide proof of ownership or a legal interest in the property.
Allow sufficient time for the search process, as it can take several weeks or even months.
When handling original building plans, handle them carefully to avoid damage.
Consider digitizing the plans for easy storage and sharing.