Modifying House Plans for Purchase
We found a plan we really like in “America’s Best House Plans”. On the advice of the builder, we didn’t pay the $1,000+ yet, pending approval of several variances. There are a number of details we wish to add to the packaged plan – which is very simple (shed roof/one bedroom/open concept/tons of windows on front). I am wondering if it makes sense to try to hire a draftsman to look at the floorplan and sketches and re-make the plans adding in the walkout basement, raised deck, insulation and other details which would add to the cost, if America’s Best house plans would even incorporate those? My late brother used to design homes – so I am aware of the value of a good draftsman.
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Replies
Run the changes you want to make past your local building department first. If the city will want a new, sealed, set of plans (and there is a pretty good chance they will), then you’ll probably need a licensed architect to make the modifications and affix their seal to the updated drawings. Draftsmen are usually limited to under a set number of square feet, after which you need an architect, and draftsman aren’t usually licensed by the state, so they won’t be able to seal the drawings they make.
Bill
I think you will find most people with the skills to do the work you describe are ethical people and will refuse to outright copy someone else’s work. If you did find someone willing to steal someone’s ideas, could you trust them?
If you brought them a paid for set of plans and asked for some alteration that begins to sound possible. You would need to read about what you agreed to when you bought the plans.
Walta
More than likely you cannot buy the plans and take them to someone else to alter them, legally.
A little confusion - wasn't going to buy plans and change them. Decided to ask company producing the plans to incorporate changes.