How Do I Find The Original Plans For My House : House Plans

How Do I Find the Original Plans for My House?

Every home has construction plans or blueprints, whether it was built in the 1920s or 2020s. These plans serve as a roadmap for the construction process, outlining the home's layout, dimensions, materials, and other crucial details. Locating the original plans for your house can provide valuable information if you're planning renovations, additions, or simply want to understand the history of your home.

Determining who holds the original plans, however, can be a bit of a treasure hunt. Here are some potential sources and steps to help you in your search:

1. Contact the Local Building Department or Municipality

Building departments typically keep copies of plans submitted for construction permits. Contact the building department in the jurisdiction where your house is located and inquire if they have the plans on file. Some municipalities may charge a fee to access or copy the plans.

2. Reach Out to the Architect or Builder

If you know the name of the architect or builder who designed or constructed your home, try contacting their office or company. They may have kept a copy of the original plans. However, be aware that older firms may have closed down or lost their archives.

3. Check with Historical Societies or Preservation Groups

For older homes, local historical societies or preservation groups may have records or archives that include house plans. They may have collected these plans from homeowners or acquired them through donations.

4. Explore Online Repositories

Some online repositories, such as the Library of Congress's Prints and Photographs Division, have collections of historic house plans. You can search their databases by location, architect, or other criteria to see if your home's plans are included.

5. Ask Previous Homeowners

If you know who the previous owners of your home were, reaching out to them may lead to valuable information. They may have a copy of the plans or know where to find them.

6. Search for Clues in the House Itself

Sometimes, hidden clues within the house can point you towards the original plans. Look for blueprints or drawings tucked away in drawers, closets, or the attic. Check the back of framed artwork or mirrors for any plans or sketches.

7. Consider Hiring a Professional

If all else fails, you can consider hiring a professional house historian or architectural researcher. They specialize in tracking down and analyzing historic building plans. They may have access to resources that you don't and can provide valuable insights into the history and construction of your home.

Once you have located the original plans for your house, make sure to keep them safe and secure. Consider making copies for reference and store them in a designated location for future use.