How Do I Find The Original Building Plans Of My House

How Do I Find the Original Building Plans of My House?

Are you curious about the original building plans of your house? Maybe you're planning a renovation and want to understand the existing structure, or perhaps you're just interested in learning more about the history of your home. Whatever the reason, finding the original building plans can be a rewarding experience. Here are a few steps to help you get started: 1.

Check with the Local Building Department:

- This is often the best place to start your search, as many building departments keep copies of building plans on file. - You can usually find the contact information for your local building department online or in the phone book. - Once you contact the building department, they may ask you for information such as the address of your house and the year it was built. - If they have the plans on file, they may be able to provide you with copies for a small fee. 2.

Contact the Previous Owner:

- If you know who the previous owner of your house was, you could try contacting them to see if they still have the original building plans. - They may be willing to give you copies or tell you where they might be located. 3.

Check with the Title Company:

- When you purchased your house, you likely received a title insurance policy. - The title company that issued the policy may have copies of the original building plans on file. - Contact the title company and ask if they have the plans. They may be able to provide you with copies for a small fee. 4.

Look for Plans in the House:

- Sometimes, the original building plans are stored in the house itself. - Check places like the attic, basement, or garage. - They may be rolled up or stored in a box or folder. 5.

Hire a Professional:

- If you're having trouble finding the original building plans, you can hire a professional to help you. - There are companies that specialize in locating and reproducing building plans. - They can use various resources, such as public records, old newspapers, and aerial photographs, to find the plans you're looking for. 6.

Consider Online Searches:

- If all else fails, you can try searching for the original building plans online. - There are a number of websites that offer access to historical building plans. - Keep in mind that these websites may charge a fee for access to the plans. Finding the original building plans of your house can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these steps, you increase your chances of success.