Frequently Asked Questions:
Do You Build Homes In My Area?
No, we don't. You'd be surprised how often we get this question, but the simple fact is that we do not build houses ourselves, at all. We just design them and sell the plans. You would need to hire a builder to build the house for you.
Can Your House Plans be Modified?
Yes. Absolutely. We can help you by making your modifications ourselves, or you may prefer to purchase the CAD file and have the plans modified by a local designer. Click here to learn more about our plan modification services.
What's Included in a Typical Set of House Plans?
See What's Included for more information.
Do Your Plans Comply With My Local Building Codes?
Our plans are designed to comply with the International Residential building code that was in effect at the time the plans were drawn. They are also designed for typical conditions and requirements in the Southeastern United States. Our plans are all you'll need to build a house, but they may not be all that is required to get a building permit in your area. Permitting requirements can vary widely from region to region and even from town to town in the same state. In addition to our plans, you may need to take additional steps to ensure that your plans are in compliance with local codes and requirements such as having the plans engineered by a local Structural Engineer or sealed by a local Architect. Your local building officials can provide you with a list of what is required in your area. Our plans do not include an Architects or Engineers Seal.
I'm a builder and I need ongoing plan maintenance - can you help with that?
No, I'm afraid not. We do not provide general drafting services. If you need ongoing plan maintenance and modifications, you should purchase the CAD File and either maintain the plans yourself if you have the means or have a local drafting service help you with that. Also, purchasing the CAD File will grant you an Unlimited Build License.
Do You Offer Material Takeoffs, Cost Estimates, or Framing Drawings?
No, not at this time anyway. We may add these options in the future if demand warrants, but it would be better to rely on your builder for these services as they would be more familiar with material and labor costs in your area, and many builders already have an estimator on staff. Also, many homes today are built with pre-fabricated trusses instead conventional stick framing (mainly because the open floor plans preferred today would be difficult, if not impossible, to build using stick framing) and the truss fabricator will produce their own framing drawings.
Do Your Plans Include HVAC Plans?
No, we do not include HVAC plans in our sets. Your heating and cooling system would need to be sized an designed by your HVAC contractor mainly due to the variety of different systems that might be installed in different areas of the country.
How Do You Measure the Square Footages of Your House Plans?
Square Footages are measured at the outside perimeter of the framing (not the brick, in cases of plans with brick veneer). This figure includes all interior space including closets, chases, and the wall framing itself.
Do Your Plans Have an Architects or Engineers Seal?
No, we do not provide sealed plans. If this is required in your area, you will need to retain the services of a local Architect or Engineer.
