Plan packages come with the standard items your builder should need to
construct the house, duplex or apartment in most locations.
What you will get
In most cases, plans are shipped in the industry standard 1/4"
format and will include the items listed below.
Study set options for each plan contain limited information for general review purposes. Click here for details.
Notes
Plans are designed to meet general
building codes at the time they were produced. Many locations amend
codes to address conditions and/or elements specific
to their area. It is the responsibility of the purchaser and/or
builder to see that all local building codes and/or zoning
requirements are met.
Stamps /engineering (Not included): If an engineers drawings (structural) or stamps of any kind are required by your building department and/or lending agency, it is possible that you will need to have the plans supplemented (including any required calculations) and stamped at the local level through an engineer licensed in your location/state. Otherwise it would likely not be accepted by your building department. This is common practice. (All matters related to stamps/engineering are the responsibility of the project owner and/or builder).
All home plan packages indicate standard frame construction and contain a monolithic slab foundation plan. Depending on your region and local building practices, you may wish to convert to another foundation type such as basement or crawl-space or alternate construction methods. Any professional builder can easily adapt a plan, or assist in adapting plans, for the specific foundation or construction type you require since they are familiar with local practices.
Due to significant variations in site conditions and code requirements from one location to another, basement foundations and 2nd floor systems must be addressed by your builder or building professional.
Due to differences in climate from one region to another, it is customary for your contractor to provide HVAC plans. All HVAC design/installation drawings and specifications are the responsibility of the builder or HVAC contractor.
If a sprinkler system is required, the design, details and installation plan must be done by someone licensed in your area. This is a "specialty" contractor situation that must be addressed by someone licensed in fire suppression systems. Most plan suppliers do not specialize in this area. Typically, even the general contractor will not be licensed for this particular system.
Some locations may require energy calculations. This must be
obtained locally due to widely varying requirements. Much of this can
be done through a local review by someone licensed in this area and
addressed through basic notations.
Due to varying span tables, code requirements and lumber
species, framing elements, including but not limited to beams, should
be verified and/or specified by your builder or supplier. Size
requirements can vary. When indicated, truss sizes, design and counts
are to be provided by the supplier/manufacturer.
Plans do not include piping schematics throughout the building. This is the responsibility of your plumbing contractor.
Being familiar with your site and service entrances, electrical panel locations/specifications, plumbing and other service tie-ins are to be determined by your builder or electrical contractor.