How Do I Get A Copy Of The Original Building Plans For My House

How Do I Get a Copy of the Original Building Plans For My House?

Acquiring the original building plans for a residential property can be an invaluable asset. These plans provide a detailed record of the house's initial design, construction, and infrastructure, offering insights that are crucial for various purposes, including renovations, repairs, property assessments, and historical preservation. Understanding where and how to locate these plans is essential for homeowners and prospective buyers alike.

The process of obtaining building plans involves navigating several potential repositories and understanding the bureaucratic procedures involved. The accessibility of these plans can vary significantly depending on the age of the property, the location of the building, and the record-keeping practices of the relevant authorities. This article details the steps and resources available to secure a copy of the original building plans for a house.

Key Point 1: Local Government Agencies and Building Departments

The most common and frequently successful starting point for locating original building plans is the local government agency responsible for building permits and records. This agency is often referred to as the Building Department, Planning Department, or Development Services Department, depending on the municipality. These departments are typically mandated to retain copies of building plans submitted for permit approval.

To initiate a search, it is necessary to identify the specific government agency responsible for the property's location. This information can usually be found on the city or county's official website. Once the appropriate agency is identified, contact them via phone, email, or in person to inquire about their procedures for accessing building plans. Many agencies now offer online portals or databases where records can be searched electronically. However, older records may only be available in physical format.

When contacting the relevant agency, it is important to provide as much information as possible about the property. This typically includes the property address, the year the house was built, the names of previous owners (if known), and the original builder or architect's name (if available). The more information provided, the easier it will be for the agency to locate the relevant records. Be prepared to provide proof of ownership, such as a copy of the property deed or a recent property tax bill, as many agencies require this documentation to ensure that only authorized individuals have access to the plans.

If the records are available, the agency may charge a fee for retrieving and copying the plans. The fee structure can vary significantly, depending on the size and complexity of the plans, as well as the agency's policies. Some agencies may allow you to view the plans in person free of charge but will charge a fee for copies. In other cases, digitizing the plans may also incur additional expenses.

It is also important to be aware that not all building plans are retained indefinitely. Some agencies have retention schedules that dictate how long records are kept before being archived or destroyed. If the property is particularly old, the plans may no longer be available at the local government agency. In such cases, alternative sources should be explored.

Key Point 2: Archives, Historical Societies, and University Libraries

If the local government agency is unable to provide the original building plans, alternative sources such as archives, historical societies, and university libraries may hold relevant records. These institutions often collect and preserve historical documents, including architectural drawings and building plans.

Archives, both public and private, may hold building plans as part of their broader collections of historical records. These archives may be associated with government agencies, historical societies, or private organizations. To search for building plans in an archive, it is necessary to identify the relevant archive based on the property's location and the period in which it was built. Online search tools and finding aids can often be used to determine whether an archive holds records of interest.

Historical societies are organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting local history. They often collect historical documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the area they serve. Building plans may be included in their collections, particularly for historically significant properties. Contacting the local historical society and inquiring about their holdings is a worthwhile step in the search process.

University libraries, particularly those with strong architecture or engineering programs, may also maintain collections of architectural drawings and building plans. These collections may include plans for residential properties, especially if the architect or builder was affiliated with the university or if the property is located near the campus. Contacting the university's library and architecture department can provide valuable leads in locating the plans.

When searching for building plans in archives, historical societies, or university libraries, be prepared to conduct thorough research and provide detailed information about the property. These institutions often have extensive collections, and locating the specific plans of interest may require significant effort. It is also important to be aware of any restrictions on access to the records. Some institutions may restrict access to sensitive information or require researchers to obtain permission before viewing certain documents.

Key Point 3: Architects, Builders, and Previous Owners

Another avenue for obtaining original building plans is to contact the original architect or builder of the house. If the house was recently constructed or if the architect or builder is still in business, they may have retained copies of the plans. Even if they do not have the original plans, they may be able to provide information about where the plans were originally filed or stored.

To locate the architect or builder, start by reviewing any existing documentation related to the house, such as contracts, permits, or property records. These documents may contain the names and contact information of the individuals or companies involved in the construction. Online directories and professional associations can also be used to search for architects and builders in the area.

When contacting the architect or builder, be prepared to provide as much information as possible about the property and the construction project. This will help them locate the relevant records and determine whether they still have copies of the plans. Be aware that they may charge a fee for retrieving and providing copies of the plans.

Contacting previous owners of the house can also be a fruitful approach. Previous owners may have retained copies of the building plans as part of their property records. Even if they no longer have the plans themselves, they may be able to provide information about where the plans were originally obtained or stored. To contact previous owners, start by reviewing property records at the local government agency. These records typically include the names and addresses of previous owners, as well as the dates of property transfers.

When contacting previous owners, be polite and respectful of their privacy. Explain the reason for the inquiry and provide as much information as possible about the property. Be aware that they may not be willing or able to provide the information requested, but it is worth pursuing this avenue as a potential source of the original building plans.

In situations where the original architect or builder is deceased or the company is no longer in business, their records may have been transferred to another firm or archived by a historical society. Conducting further research into the history of the architect or builder may uncover the location of their archived records.

Successfully obtaining the original building plans for a property requires patience, persistence, and a thorough understanding of the potential resources available. By utilizing the strategies outlined above, homeowners and prospective buyers can increase their chances of locating these valuable documents and gaining a deeper understanding of their property's history and construction.