How To Find Original Floor Plans For My House

How to Find Original Floor Plans for Your House

Discovering the original floor plans for your home can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor, offering valuable insights into its history and architectural style. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you unravel the secrets of your home's design:

1. Contact the Local Planning Department

The local planning department often maintains a repository of building permits and other historical records related to properties within their jurisdiction. They may have copies of original floor plans on file, especially if your home was built before a certain cut-off date or if it has undergone significant renovations.

2. Check the County Courthouse or Registrar of Deeds

Similar to the planning department, the county courthouse or registrar of deeds may have records of building permits and deeds that include floor plans or architectural drawings. These documents may provide detailed information about the original layout and dimensions of your home.

3. Visit the Local Historical Society

Local historical societies often collect and preserve historical artifacts and documents related to the community. They may have access to old photographs, architectural drawings, or other materials that could provide clues about your home's original design.

4. Search Online Databases

There are several online databases that offer access to historical building plans and architectural drawings. Websites like Library of Congress, Historic American Buildings Survey, and Ancestry.com may have digitized or scanned copies of floor plans for your home.

5. Contact the Architect or Builder

If the original architect or builder of your home is still in business, they may have retained copies of the floor plans. Reaching out to them directly could provide you with valuable information about the home's design and construction.

6. Consult with an Architectural Historian

Architectural historians specialize in researching and interpreting the history of buildings. They can help you uncover the original floor plans for your home through archival research and analysis of architectural features.

7. Examine the Home's Physical Structure

Sometimes, the original floor plan can be inferred from the physical structure of the home. Look for evidence of previous walls, doorways, or windows that may have been altered or removed over time. Observing the symmetry and flow of the rooms can also provide clues about the original design.

8. Consult with a Real Estate Agent

Real estate agents often have access to historical records and information about properties in their area. They may be able to assist you in your search for original floor plans or provide valuable leads.

9. Check with the Previous Owners

If you have any contact information for the previous owners of your home, they may have retained copies of the original floor plans or be able to share valuable insights about the home's history and design. Remember to approach your search with patience and perseverance. Finding original floor plans can take some time and effort, but the rewards of uncovering the history of your home are well worth it.