How To Get A Floorplan Of My House : Plans Layout

How To Get A Floorplan Of Your House

A floorplan is a scaled drawing that depicts the layout of a house or building. It is a valuable tool for many purposes, including:

Home renovation and remodeling: Floorplans help visualize and plan space utilization during home renovations.
Furniture placement and room layout: They provide a visual guide for arranging furniture and maximizing space.
Selling a house: Floorplans are often included in real estate listings to showcase a home's layout.
Building permits and construction: They are essential documents for obtaining permits and guiding construction projects.

Obtaining a floorplan for your house can be done through several methods, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. Check Existing Records

The most straightforward way to obtain a floorplan is to check existing records. The following sources are often good starting points:

Your local municipality: Building departments often keep records of floorplans submitted for permits. Contact your local building department and provide information about your property, such as the address and any known permit numbers.
Real estate records: If your house was recently sold, the real estate listing may include a floorplan. You can also check online real estate databases or contact real estate agents who have listed your house in the past.
Homeowner's Association (HOA): Some HOAs maintain records of floorplans for properties within their community.
Previous owners or occupants: If you have contact information for previous owners or occupants, they may possess a floorplan or know where to find one.

Keep in mind that the availability of floorplans in these records varies depending on local regulations and record-keeping practices. Floorplans may not be available for older homes or may not be digitized or easily accessible.

2. Hire a Professional

If you cannot find an existing floorplan, you can hire a professional to create one for you. Here are some professionals who can assist with floorplan creation:

Architects: Architects are trained to create detailed floorplans and other architectural drawings. They can provide accurate and comprehensive plans that are suitable for various purposes.
Draftsmen and drafters: Draftsmen specialize in technical drawings, including floorplans. They can create accurate plans based on site measurements and your specifications.
Home stagers: Home stagers often create floorplans as part of their services to help visualize furniture placement and optimize space utilization.

Hiring a professional is the most reliable way to obtain a detailed and accurate floorplan. However, this method can be expensive, and it requires scheduling appointments and coordinating with the professional.

3. Create Your Own Floorplan

For those comfortable with drawing and measuring, creating your own floorplan is a DIY option. Here are some tips for creating a basic floorplan:

Measure your house accurately: Use a tape measure to measure the length and width of each room, including doorways, windows, and any other structural elements.
Use graph paper or a drawing program: Graph paper makes it easier to draw to scale, while drawing programs provide flexibility and editing tools.
Start with a simple layout: Draw the walls and main structural elements first, then add details like doors, windows, and appliances.
Use symbols and labels: Use standard symbols to represent furniture, appliances, and other features. Label rooms and include dimensions for clarity.

While creating your own floorplan can save money, it requires patience and attention to detail. The accuracy of your plan depends on your measuring skills and understanding of basic drawing techniques.

Regardless of the method you choose, obtaining a floorplan can prove to be a valuable asset for various purposes. It provides a visual representation of your home's layout, aiding in planning, organization, and decision-making.