How To Get Original Plans For My House

How to Obtain Essential House Plans for Your Dream Home

Every homeowner desires to possess the original blueprints of their residence, as these documents hold invaluable information regarding the structure and integrity of the property. Original plans provide a detailed outline of the home's design, including floor plans, elevations, and cross-sections. Acquiring these plans is crucial for various reasons, such as undertaking renovations, addressing structural issues, or refinancing the mortgage.

Unfortunately, obtaining original house plans can sometimes be a daunting task, especially for older homes. However, with a systematic approach and a bit of perseverance, it is entirely possible to locate and retrieve these essential documents.

Steps to Acquire Original House Plans

Contact the Local Building Department:

The building department in your municipality is likely to house a repository of building permits and construction documents for properties within their jurisdiction. Contact the department and inquire about the availability of the original plans for your house. Provide them with the address and, if possible, the year of construction.

Search Online Databases:

Several websites and online databases maintain a collection of historical building plans and blueprints. Websites such as HistoricAerials.com and OldHouseWeb.com may offer access to scanned copies of original plans for a fee.

Check with the Previous Homeowners:

If you have any contact information for the previous homeowners, it's worth reaching out to them. They may have retained a copy of the original plans or know where they might be located.

Inspect the Property:

Sometimes, original plans can be found within the house itself. Check the attic, basement, or utility closets for any loose documents or rolled-up blueprints. They may be tucked away in storage boxes or hidden behind insulation.

Hire an Architect or Draftsman:

As a last resort, you can consider hiring an architect or draftsman to create a new set of plans. While this option is more expensive, it ensures that you have accurate and up-to-date documentation for your home.

Benefits of Having Original House Plans

Renovation and Expansion:

When planning home improvements, original plans provide a detailed guide to the existing structure, enabling you to design and execute renovations that seamlessly integrate with the existing layout.

Structural Integrity:

If you suspect structural issues, original plans help identify load-bearing walls, support beams, and other critical structural elements, allowing for timely repairs or reinforcement.

Mortgage Refinancing:

Lenders may require original house plans during the mortgage refinancing process to assess the property's value and ensure compliance with building codes.

Historical Preservation:

For homes with historical significance, original plans serve as valuable documentation of the property's architectural heritage, aiding in preservation efforts.

Peace of Mind:

Having original house plans provides peace of mind, knowing that you possess a comprehensive record of your home's construction and design.

Conclusion

Obtaining original house plans is a worthwhile endeavor that can benefit homeowners in numerous ways. By following the steps outlined above and exploring all available avenues, you can increase your chances of locating these essential documents. Remember, persistence and a methodical approach are key to unearthing the original blueprints of your dream home.