IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please note: In most areas of the country, these house plans are all that are required
to build, but not necessarily everything required to obtain a building permit.
In addition to these house plans, you may also need a site plan reflecting where
the house will be located on the property. Beams sized to accommodate roof loads
specific to your region might also be necessary. Your home builder can help you
with this. A septic design might also be needed unless your lot is served by a sanitary
sewer system. Many areas now have area-specific energy codes that must be followed.
This normally involves filling out a simple form providing documentation that your
house plan is in compliance.
Additionally, some regions may require you to insure your house plans are in compliance
with local codes. Some areas of North America have strict engineering requirements.
Earthquake-prone areas of California and the Pacific Coast, hurricane-risk areas
of the Gulf Coast, Florida and California are some examples. Parts of Illinois,
Nevada, New Jersey and New York require review by a local professional as well.
If you are building in these areas, you will probably need to hire a state-licensed
structural engineer to analyze the design and provide additional drawings and calculations
required by your building department to meet local codes. If you are not sure, check
with your building department. They will likely have a handout listing all the items
required to submit and obtain a building permit.
Keep in mind, stock plans are not professionally stamped by an engineer or architect.
If your building department requires a stamp, they will only accept one from a professional
licensed in the state where you plan to build. In this case, you would take your
house plans to a local engineer or architect for review and stamping. Plans which
are used to construct homes in Nevada are required to be drawn by a licensed Nevada
architect.