The Comprehensive Guide to Finding Original House Blueprints

Finding the original blueprints for your house can be a crucial step in understanding the exact specifications and designs of your home. Whether you are restoring an older property or planning a renovation, having access to the original blueprints can save you both time and money. This comprehensive guide outlines the steps you can take to locate these essential documents.

Check with the Current Owner

The first and often easiest step is to reach out to the current homeowner. They may be in possession of the original blueprints or have information on where to find them. Personal networks and direct communication can be highly effective in this regard.

Local Building Department

Another promising avenue is contacting your local building or planning department. These offices often maintain records of building permits that may include original blueprints and floor plans. They can also guide you on additional available resources or direct you to specific archives.

Architectural Firms

If you have the name of the architect or builder who designed your house, reaching out to their firm can be extremely beneficial. Many architectural firms have archives or retain copies of projects they have completed. Their assistance is invaluable in this process.

County Assessors Office

For homeowners particularly interested in older properties, visiting the county assessors' office may prove fruitful. These offices often have records of residential properties, including blueprints or sketches. These documents can provide a wealth of information about the property's history and construction.

Historical Societies or Archives

In some cases, historical societies or archives may hold blueprints or related documents. These organizations are dedicated to preserving the rich architectural heritage of a region. Their collections can expand beyond the property's documentation and offer broader context for the area's development.

Online Resources

Online platforms like Zillow can sometimes provide floor plans for homes, though these are usually not the original blueprints. Nonetheless, such resources can offer valuable insights and serve as a starting point for your search.

Previous Owners

Knowing the full history of the house can be crucial. Contacting previous owners or neighbors might yield results, as they may have access to copies of the blueprints retained during their tenure. Networking and direct communication can uncover hidden pockets of information.

Libraries

Local libraries often house archives and resources related to local architecture. They may include copies of blueprints and other relevant documents. These resources can be particularly useful for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the area's building practices.

Real Estate Records

In some regions, real estate records can include blueprints or detailed plans of the property. These documents can provide a wealth of information on the property's history and construction. Checking these records can be a valuable step in your search.

Hire a Professional

If you are having difficulty in locating the blueprints, consider hiring a professional researcher or architect specializing in historical buildings. Their expertise can help you locate resources and documents that may not be readily available to the general public. They can also provide additional context and insights into the property's original design.

Additional Resources

To obtain a copy of the blueprints for your house, follow these steps:

Contact the original architect or engineer: Reach out to the professionals who designed your house. They should have a record of the blueprints and can provide you with a copy. Reach out to your local building department: If you are unable to get in touch with the original architect or engineer, contact your local building department. They often keep copies of building plans on file and can assist you in obtaining a copy. Hire a licensed surveyor: In some cases, a licensed surveyor can help you locate the blueprints by conducting a thorough survey of your property. They have access to resources and records that can help in tracking down the required documents. Consult with a construction professional: If all else fails, consider hiring a construction professional such as an architect or engineer who specializes in blueprint reconstruction. They can recreate the blueprints based on an assessment of your existing structure.

Remember to provide as much information as possible: When requesting the blueprints, provide the address, date of construction, and any relevant details about the original construction team. This information can aid the professionals in locating the documents you need.

Good luck!