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Before you buy a house plan: 11 things to check

A plan set is a license to build from drawings, not a promise that they fit your site. These are the things to settle with the seller and your builder before you buy.

PLAN SETDECISIONCHECKLIST

Every plan needs to be checked against your site, local codes and your builder's review. Some locations require modifications or a local professional's stamp. Nothing on this page replaces that review. It helps you arrive at it prepared.

The checklist

  1. 01

    It fits your lot

    Plan width and depth, plus your front, side and rear setbacks, fit inside the lot. Get setbacks from your planning office.

  2. 02

    Your foundation is offered

    The plan set includes the foundation your site needs (slab, crawlspace, basement or walkout), or the seller can draw it.

  3. 03

    You know what the plan set contains

    Ask for the sheet index: floor plans, elevations, sections, roof plan, electrical, details. Sets differ between sellers.

  4. 04

    The file format suits your builder

    PDF, CAD or printed sets allow different things. CAD files make local changes easier.

  5. 05

    The license covers your build

    Read how many builds the license allows and whether your builder can copy the drawings.

  6. 06

    Modifications are possible, and by whom

    Ask whether the seller offers changes, what they cost, and whether a local designer may change the plan.

  7. 07

    Your location's stamp requirement

    Some states and counties require drawings stamped by a local architect or engineer. Ask your building department.

  8. 08

    Which square footage the price uses

    Heated area and total under roof are different numbers. Know which one any estimate is based on.

  9. 09

    The elevations, not just the floor plan

    Ceiling heights, roof pitch and window sizes are on the elevations and sections. They change both the look and the build.

  10. 10

    Your energy code

    Ask your builder what your local energy code requires and whether the plan set's wall and insulation details meet it.

  11. 11

    Price, date and return policy

    Plan prices change. Note the price and the date you checked it, and read the exchange and refund terms.

Take these to your builder

Bring the plan, your survey and this list to the first meeting.

  1. Have you built from this seller's plan sets before?
  2. What would you change in this plan for our site and climate?
  3. Which drawings will you need that the plan set does not include?
  4. Can you give us a local price range from this plan before we buy it?

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