General Information - Frequently Asked Questions
Copyright | Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do our house plans include?
1/4" scale foundation plan. (slab, basement, or crawl space)
1/4" scale floor plan(s) with schematic electrical layout.
1/4" scale front elevation. (all elevations in some plans)
1/8" scale side and rear elevations.
1/8" roof plan
Typical wall sections and foundation section details.
Miscellaneous details as needed per house plan.
2. What are reproducibles?
Reproducibles are erasable vellum or sepia prints. Reproducibles are used for modifications to house plans, thereby creating a derivative work. The original home plan designer retains ownership of the house plans and all derivative works. You may make up to 12 copies of the reproducible set or derivative work for use in the construction of 1 unit.
3. How is the square footage of a home plan calculated?
Square footage calculations are taken from outside perimeter of the exterior frame wall and includes only living (heated) spaces. Two story, vaulted areas, and staircases are only included once in the calculations of the first floor. Balconies and open walkways are included with the second floor calculations. The combine total gives you the total square footage. Decks, porches, garages, basements, attics, and bonus rooms are not included in the total heated square footage. Basements are usually the same square footage of the first floor if it follows the same footprint of the first floor.
4. Do you include hvac, electrical, plumbing, & framing plans?
Our house plans do include abbreviated floor & ceiling framing member specifications and schematic electrical plans (suggested fixture, outlet, switch, etc. locations). HVAC mechanical system information regarding location of units, what types of units are used, and the duct layout are determined by local building codes and your preference of heating and cooling system. Also, we don't know which direction the water flow will enter your home. Determining the location and the type of these systems you install in your new home is something you would discuss with your local builder, mechanical (hvac) contractor, and plumbing contractor. They should be able to provide you with the necessary information based on what your local building codes will allow.
5. Do your home plans have all the information needed by my local building codes department?
Absolutely, not. The same is true for any house plan you may purchase. You will need a site plan that shows where the home is going to be located on the lot. Your builder or contractor can usually help you with this. You may also need a septic system design unless your lot is served by a sanitary sewer system. Some counties also have energy codes that have to be followed. This normally involves filling out a form proving compliance. There are some areas of the country that have very strict local engineering codes. Examples of this would be earthquake-prone areas of California or hurricane risk areas along the Gulf Coast. If you are building in this type of area, it is possible that you will need to hire a local engineer to analyze the home design and provide additional drawings and calculations required by your building department. If you aren't sure, local building code departments always have a handout they will give you listing all of the things you need to submit for a building permit.
6. Do you supply a material list with your house plans?
We do not provide a material list with our home plans. You can always order the plans and take them to a local Home Depot, Lowes, or any local building supplier and they can generate a material list for you.
7. Can I have modifications made to the home plans?
Yes, you can have modifications made to the home plans and we can make those changes for you. For more information on modifications, go to our Plan Modifications page.
8. Do your plans have an architect stamp?
Our plans do not have an architect stamp. Most states do not require an architect stamp on residential building plans. However, some states require that the house plans be sealed by a licensed architect. Consult with your local building officials to see if they require an architect stamp on houseplans in your city or state.
9. Is there a return or exchange policy?
No. Since it is possible to make illegal blueprint copies of the home plans you received, returns or exchanges are not allowed.
10. Do your plans come with an unlimited license to build?
No. All plan packages offered by Design Evolutions Inc., GA, grant you the right to build one (1) home.
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