How Do I Find Old Plans Of My House

How Do I Find Old Plans Of My House?

Owning a home is an exciting experience, but it can also be a lot of work. When it comes to maintaining and renovating your home, having access to old plans can be invaluable. These plans can help you understand the layout of your home, identify potential problems, and make informed decisions about improvements. Finding old plans of your house can be a challenge, but it is possible with a little effort. Here are some steps you can take to locate them: 1.

Contact Your Local Planning Department:

Many local planning departments maintain records of old building permits and plans. Contact the planning department in your area and inquire about the availability of plans for your house. They may have a physical archive of old plans or be able to provide you with digital copies. 2.

Check with the Previous Owner:

If you are on good terms with the previous owner of your house, they may be willing to share any old plans they have. Reach out to them and ask if they have any plans or blueprints of the house. They may be able to provide you with physical copies or digital scans. 3.

Search Online Repositories:

There are several online repositories and databases where old building plans are archived and made available to the public. Some popular websites include: * [Library of Congress](https://www.loc.gov/): The Library of Congress has a vast collection of historical maps and building plans, including many old house plans. * [HistoricAerials.com](https://www.historicaerials.com/): This website provides access to historical aerial photographs, which can be useful for identifying the original layout of your house. * [Old House Web](https://www.oldhouseweb.com/): This website is dedicated to old houses and provides a variety of resources, including a database of old house plans. 4.

Hire a Professional:

If you are unable to find old plans of your house through the methods mentioned above, you can consider hiring a professional. A qualified architect or home inspector may be able to create new plans based on their assessment of your home. While this option may be more expensive, it can provide you with detailed and accurate plans. 5.

Explore Local Historical Societies:

Local historical societies and preservation organizations often have collections of old maps, photographs, and other historical documents related to the area. They may have information or resources that can help you find old plans of your house. Remember, the availability and accessibility of old house plans can vary depending on the age of your home, the region where you live, and the record-keeping practices of local authorities. Be patient and persistent in your search, and you may be able to uncover valuable information about the history of your home.