Obtaining architectural plans for your house can be a straightforward process if you follow the appropriate steps. Below are detailed instructions to guide you through acquiring these important documents.
Understanding Public Access to Architectural Plans
Start by determining whether the architectural plans you seek are considered public records. Many governmental bodies, especially at the local level, maintain records of building permits and associated plans that are over a certain age—typically, documents older than 30 years are readily accessible to the public. Check with local regulations to understand what is available in your area.
Contact Your Local Building Department
The first step in your inquiry is to get in touch with your local building department, which often houses records related to existing structures.
- Make Contact: Reach out via phone or visit in person to discuss your needs.
- Provide Details: Be prepared to give clear details about your property, including the address, any known construction dates, and any permit numbers if available.
- Request Plans: Ask if they have the original building plans on file. If they do not possess these documents, they may have leads on where you can find them.
Investigating with the Architect
If the building department does not have the original plans available, another avenue is to locate the original architect.
- Ask Building Department Staff: They may know who designed the structure.
- Contact the Architect: If possible, reach out to the architect directly. Some firms maintain archives of their projects and may provide copies for a fee.
Searching Online Resources
Oftentimes, you can initiate your search for blueprints online.
- Visit Local Government Websites: Most city and county governments maintain property records online. Search for terms like “property records” or “building plans” alongside your locale.
- Utilize Online Databases: Websites such as the National Archives or historical property archives may also hold relevant documents, particularly for older buildings.
Accessing Local Archives and Libraries
Local archives, libraries, and historical societies may have blueprints and plans on file:
- Visit Local Archives: Check whether your area has an archive dedicated to public records or historical documents.
- Research Libraries: Some libraries maintain archives of local building plans, including fire insurance maps that can provide insights into the original layouts of structures.
Filing a Formal Request
When you locate the appropriate office or agency, you might need to file a formal request.
- Gather Necessary Information: Be ready to provide property details, your identification, and possibly any relevant documentation.
- Complete Required Forms: Some jurisdictions require specific forms to be filled out to request records. Make sure to have these done properly.
- Pay Applicable Fees: There might be a fee associated with obtaining copies of architectural plans, so check in advance what the costs will be.
Getting Approval Copies
If you need approved plans for modifications:
- Visit the Municipal Office: In many cases, you can obtain “sanctioned” or approved building plans from the municipal office.
- Provide Documentation: Show proof of property ownership and potentially any recent tax payment receipts.
- Follow Up: Depending on the backlog, it may take some time to receive your documents, so make sure to follow up appropriately.
FAQs
1. Can I access architectural plans for free?
While many public records are available free or for a nominal fee, costs may apply depending on the jurisdiction and the specific office handling the requests.
2. Are blueprints available for homes built in the last decade?
Building departments may have restrictions on accessing recent plans due to privacy or proprietary considerations; check with your local office for their specific policies.
3. What should I do if I can’t find any records?
If records are not available, consider seeking the expertise of a local architect or contractor who might help recreate plans based on existing structures, especially if modifications are needed.
