How To Get Floor Plans For My House

How To Get Floor Plans For Your House

Obtaining floor plans for a house can be essential for various purposes, from renovations and insurance claims to simply understanding the layout of one's living space. Several avenues exist for acquiring these plans, depending on the age and history of the house and the level of detail required.

Check Existing Records: The first step is to explore existing documentation. Homeowners may already possess copies of the original floor plans. These might be located among closing documents from the purchase of the property. Checking filing cabinets, storage boxes, and even attics or basements for these documents can save considerable time and effort.

Contact Previous Owners or Builders: If the homeowner is not the original occupant, reaching out to previous owners or the builder (if the house is relatively new) can be a valuable step. Previous owners may have retained copies of the floor plans, while builders often maintain archives of their projects. Real estate agents involved in past transactions related to the property might also possess copies of the plans.

Consult Local Government Agencies: Local government agencies, such as the city or county building department or assessor's office, often keep records of building permits and associated documents, including floor plans. Contacting these offices and requesting access to these records is typically a straightforward process, though fees may apply. These records are particularly likely to exist for newer homes or those that have undergone significant renovations or additions.

Examine Property Deeds and Surveys: While property deeds and surveys rarely include detailed floor plans, they can offer valuable information about the property's boundaries, lot size, and sometimes the footprint of the house. These documents can be obtained from the county recorder's office or a title company. This information can be helpful when used in conjunction with other methods of obtaining floor plans.

Hire a Professional Surveyor: If existing records are unavailable or insufficient, hiring a professional land surveyor is an option. Surveyors can create accurate and detailed floor plans by taking precise measurements of the interior and exterior of the house. This option provides the most accurate representation of the current layout, including any modifications made since the original construction. However, it is typically the most expensive method.

Utilize Online Resources and Software: Several online resources and software programs allow users to create their own floor plans. Some websites offer templates and tools for drawing floor plans based on measurements taken by the homeowner. Smartphone apps can even use augmented reality to simplify the measurement process. While this offers a more affordable option, the accuracy of the resulting floor plans depends on the precision of the measurements taken.

Consider Hiring an Architect or Drafter: Similar to surveyors, architects and drafters can create precise floor plans. They may be a preferable option for complex projects or when detailed architectural drawings are required, such as for significant renovations. Architects can also offer design services and integrate desired changes into the floor plans, making them particularly useful for planning home improvements.

Explore Real Estate Listings: If the property was recently listed for sale, online real estate portals might still contain the listing information, including floor plans. While these plans might not be highly detailed, they can provide a general overview of the layout and room dimensions. This is a particularly useful starting point if other options prove unsuccessful.

Check with Home Insurance Companies: In some cases, home insurance companies may retain copies of floor plans submitted as part of the insurance application process. Contacting the insurance provider and inquiring about the availability of these plans can be worthwhile. The level of detail in these plans can vary.

Understanding Blueprint Symbols: When reviewing floor plans, understanding common architectural symbols is essential for accurate interpretation. Walls, doors, windows, stairs, and fixtures are typically represented by specific symbols. Resources explaining these symbols can be found online and in architectural guides. Familiarity with these symbols will allow homeowners to effectively utilize and interpret the obtained floor plans.

Determining the Appropriate Level of Detail: The required level of detail for a floor plan depends on its intended use. For simple home decorating projects, a basic sketch might suffice. However, for renovations requiring permits, a detailed and accurate plan created by a professional is usually necessary. Considering the purpose of the floor plan will help determine the appropriate method for obtaining it.

Maintaining Floor Plan Records: Once floor plans are obtained, keeping them in a safe and easily accessible location is important. Creating digital copies and storing them securely is also recommended. Having readily available floor plans can prove invaluable in various situations, from insurance claims to future renovations.