How To Find Original Building Plans For House : House Plans

How To Find Original Building Plans For House

Finding the original building plans for a house can be a valuable undertaking, whether you're a homeowner looking to remodel, an architect researching a historic structure, or a contractor seeking guidance on a renovation project.

Original building plans provide detailed information about the home's design, layout, materials, and construction methods. They can assist you in understanding the home's history, identifying potential structural issues, and making informed decisions about renovations.

Finding original building plans can be challenging, but following these steps will increase your chances of success:

1. Contact the Local Building Department:

The local building department is often a good starting point for locating building plans. They maintain records of building permits issued for properties within their jurisdiction. You can visit the department in person or contact them via phone or email to inquire about the availability of plans for your house.

2. Check with the Homeowner:

If you're not the homeowner, reach out to the current owner and politely inquire if they have the original building plans. They may have inherited them from the previous owners or may have obtained them during their time in the house.

3. Search Online:

Several websites and databases offer access to historic building plans. The Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) are among the resources worth exploring. You can search their collections using the address or location of your house.

4. Visit Local Libraries and Historical Societies:

Local libraries and historical societies often have archives of local history, including building plans. They may have digitized or hard copies of the original plans for your house. Contact them to inquire about their collections and search for relevant documents.

5. Consult with Architects and Contractors:

Architects and contractors who have worked on your house in the past may possess copies of the original building plans. Contact them to inquire if they have such documents or know where they can be found.

6. Examine the House Itself:

Sometimes, original building plans can be found within the house itself. Check the attic, basement, or closets for rolled-up or framed plans. They may be hidden behind walls or tucked away in unexpected places.

7. Use a Plan Search Service:

Professional plan search services specialize in locating original building plans. They have access to extensive databases and can conduct thorough searches for you. This option is typically more expensive than other methods but can be effective if other avenues have failed.

Once you've located the original building plans for your house, make copies for your records and store them in a safe place. These plans are invaluable assets that can guide you throughout the life of your home.