Where Can I Find The Original Floor Plans For My House

Where Can I Find the Original Floor Plans for My House?

Owning a home is a significant investment, and understanding its layout and design is crucial for renovation, expansion, or even just day-to-day living. Original floor plans provide valuable insight into the structure and layout of your house, offering information about room dimensions, wall locations, and even potential hidden features. However, tracking down these plans can be a bit like a treasure hunt, requiring some detective work. This article will elaborate on several avenues you can explore to locate these essential documents.

Contact Your Local Building Department

One of the first places to start your search is the building department in the municipality where your house is located. Building departments typically maintain records of permits and plans for all structures within their jurisdiction. These records might include the original floor plan submitted when the house was built or subsequently renovated.

To initiate your search, you will usually need to provide the following information to the building department:

Your property address
The date the house was built or last renovated (if known)
The name of the original owner or builder (if known)

Be prepared for some fees associated with retrieving these records. The building department may charge a nominal fee for searching and copying the plans. Though the process may require some patience, it's a highly reliable method for finding original floor plans.

Investigate Your Own Home

Sometimes, the answer lies within your own home. Consider these possibilities:

Check Attics and Basements:
These areas often serve as storage spaces and might hold historical documents related to the house. Look for boxes, files, or even old blueprints tucked away in corners.
Examine the Walls and Floors:
In some cases, builders might have left behind a copy of the plans or markings indicating the locations of walls, pipes, or electrical wiring. Look for pencil markings or faint outlines on the underside of floorboards or behind wall panels.
Consult Real Estate Records:
If you recently purchased the home, the real estate agents or previous owners might have copies of the plans. Reach out to them and inquire about their availability.

Reach Out to Professionals and Other Resources

If your initial searches prove unsuccessful, consider enlisting the expertise of professionals or exploring additional resources.

Architects and Engineers:
Architects and engineers are familiar with building regulations and often have experience accessing historical plans. They may be able to assist in locating the original floor plans or provide guidance on alternative methods for obtaining them.
Historical Societies and Libraries:
Local historical societies or libraries may hold archives of historical records, including building plans. Contact these organizations to inquire about their resources.
Online Research:
Websites such as Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) offer online access to historical documents, including building permits and plans.

While finding original floor plans can be a challenge, pursuing these various avenues can greatly increase your chances of success. Remember to be persistent in your search and diligent in your documentation. The effort will be rewarded with valuable information about your home's past and invaluable insights for future renovations.