How To Get Floor Plans Of A House

How to Obtain Floor Plans of a House

Obtaining floor plans of a house is a crucial step in various situations, such as renovations, remodeling, or understanding the layout of a property. Whether you're a homeowner, potential buyer, architect, or contractor, accessing accurate floor plans is essential. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and resources to help you acquire floor plans of a house.

Step 1: Contact the Property Owner or Architect

The most direct method is to contact the current homeowner or the architect who designed the house. They may have copies of the original blueprints or floor plans that you can request. Politely inquire if they are willing to provide these documents or direct you to the appropriate source.

Step 2: Search Public Records

Local building departments or city halls often keep records of building permits and plans submitted for construction. Visit these offices and inquire about the availability of floor plans for the property in question. There may be fees associated with obtaining copies.

Step 3: Utilize Online Databases

There are several online databases that offer access to floor plans and property information. These platforms may charge a fee for subscription or individual downloads. Some popular options include:

iBuild
BuildFax
Proquest

Step 4: Commission a Survey

If the above methods prove unsuccessful, you can commission a licensed surveyor to create a floor plan of the house. This will involve a physical visit to the property and measurements taken to create accurate drawings. While this option is more expensive, it ensures that you obtain a detailed and up-to-date floor plan.

Step 5: Use Floor Plan Software

For existing floor plans that require minor modifications or updates, you can utilize floor plan software. This software allows you to input the existing layout and make changes as needed. Some popular options include:

SketchUp
Autodesk AutoCAD
Floorplanner

Additional Tips:

Be prepared to provide proof of ownership or authorization to access the floor plans.
Check the accuracy and completeness of the floor plans before relying on them.
Consider the purpose of obtaining the floor plans to determine the level of detail required.

Obtaining floor plans of a house can be a straightforward process with the right approach. By following these steps and exploring the available resources, you can acquire accurate and up-to-date information about the layout and structure of a property.