Where to Get the Blueprints for My House

Finding the original blueprints or floor plans of your house can be helpful for remodeling, repairs, or just knowing how your home is built. Here are the best steps to find them.

Step 1: Check Your Own Records

1.1 Look Through Personal Files

If you bought the house, you may have received some documents at the time of purchase. These might include:

Floor plans
Building drawings
A property survey

Check any folders from your real estate agent or lawyer, or emails from your home purchase.

1.2 Ask the Previous Owner

If you are not the first owner, try contacting the person who owned the house before you. They might have kept copies of the original plans or know where to find them.

Step 2: Contact Local Government Offices

2.1 Visit the Building Department

Your local city or county building department often keeps records of homes built in the area. Ask for:

Building permits
Architectural drawings
Site plans

You may need your property address and ID to request copies. Some offices might charge a small fee.

2.2 Check with the Tax Assessor’s Office

They may not have full blueprints, but they often have basic layouts or descriptions of your property, including size and structure.

Step 3: Talk to Professionals

3.1 Reach Out to the Builder or Architect

If you know the company or architect who built your house, contact them directly. They may still have the original designs, especially if your home is not too old.

3.2 Hire a Draftsman or Architect

If you can’t find the blueprints, a professional can come to your home and create new ones by measuring the structure. This is helpful if you plan to remodel or sell the house.

Step 4: Use Online Tools and Resources

4.1 Search Online Property Records

Many cities have online systems that let you view building plans or permit histories. Visit your city or county website and search using your home address.

4.2 Try Home Design or Planning Websites

Some websites offer house plan templates and may have records of popular home designs. If your house is part of a housing development, you may find a matching layout online.

Final Thoughts

Finding your house blueprints might take some time, but it’s possible. Start with your own records, check with local offices, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from professionals. Having these plans gives you a better understanding of your home and makes future projects easier.