Find Original Building Plans For My House

Find Original Building Plans for Your House: A Comprehensive Guide

Whether you're a homeowner planning a renovation, a potential buyer seeking detailed information, or simply curious about the history of your property, having access to the original building plans can be invaluable. These plans provide a wealth of information, including architectural details, material specifications, and historical data. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you find the original building plans for your house.

1. Contact the City or County Archives

Local government offices are often a valuable resource for finding old building plans. The city or county archives may have a record of the original plans filed during the building permit process. Contact them and inquire about the availability of the plans for your property. They may have them on file, or they can direct you to the appropriate department.

2. Visit the Local Historical Society

Historical societies collect historical records, including documents related to the history of buildings. Visit your local historical society and inquire if they have any information about the original plans for your house. They may have access to copies of the plans, or they can provide you with leads on where to find them.

3. Search Online Repositories

Several online repositories provide access to digitized building plans. These repositories include the Library of Congress, the National Archives, and the Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS). Search these repositories using the address or parcel number of your property to see if the original plans are available.

4. Contact the Architect or Builder

If you can identify the architect or builder who worked on your house, they may have retained copies of the original plans. Contact them and inquire if they still have the plans. They may be willing to provide you with copies or direct you to someone who has them.

5. Check with the Current or Previous Owner

The current or previous owner of your house may have the original building plans. They may have received them during the purchase process or had them prepared for renovations. Contact them and ask if they have the plans and are willing to share them.

6. Look for Clues in the House

Sometimes, the original building plans can be found within the house itself. Check the basement, attic, or closets for any rolled-up or folded plans. They may be stored in a tube or a box labeled "building plans" or "house plans."

7. Hire a Professional

If you're unable to find the original building plans through the methods described above, consider hiring a professional to help. Architectural historians or document retrieval services specialize in locating historical documents, including building plans. They can conduct a thorough search and provide you with copies of the plans, if available.

It's important to note that not all houses will have original building plans available. Some houses may have been built before the requirement to file plans with the city or county, or the plans may have been lost or destroyed over time. However, by following the steps outlined above, you increase your chances of finding the original building plans for your house.