How Can I Find My Original House Plans : House Plans

How Can I Find My Original House Plans?

Whether you're renovating, expanding, or simply curious about your home's history, locating the original house plans can be invaluable. These blueprints provide a detailed record of the house's design, materials, and construction methods, making them an essential resource for any homeowner.

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you locate your original house plans:

1. Check with the City or County Building Department

Often, local building departments maintain a repository of building permits and corresponding house plans. Contact them and inquire about the availability of plans for your property.

2. Contact the Architect or Builder

If you have the name of the architect or builder who designed or constructed your home, reach out to them. They may have kept copies of the plans or be able to direct you to someone who does.

3. Explore Online Resources

Several websites offer access to historical building plans. Some popular options include:

* Historic Map Works * Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division * HousePlans.com

4. Ask Previous Owners

If you know who owned your home before you, they may have kept a copy of the plans. Reach out and see if they have them.

5. Check with the Title Company

Your title company may have a record of the original house plans as part of the property's closing documents.

6. Search Public Records

In some cases, house plans may be available through public records, such as deeds or property tax records. Contact the appropriate government agency for more information.

7. Hire a Research Specialist

If all else fails, consider hiring a research specialist who specializes in locating historical building plans. They can conduct a thorough search and may be able to uncover plans that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Tips for Reading House Plans

Once you have located the original house plans, here are some tips for understanding them:

Read the Scale: Make sure you understand the scale of the plans to interpret the dimensions correctly.
Identify Floors: Plans are typically organized by floor, so locate the floor plan for your specific level.
Study the Symbols: Each symbol on the plan represents a different element, such as walls, windows, or plumbing fixtures.
Look for Measurements: Plans include measurements of dimensions, such as wall lengths and room sizes.
Check Notes and Specifications: Additional details about materials, finishes, and construction methods can be found in notes and specifications.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of finding your original house plans and unlocking valuable insights into your home's design and history.