READING OUR PLANS

This section provides some general information regarding how our plans are made, what units are used, and other information. If you would like to discuss any aspect of a particular plan in detail, please contact us by e-mail or by phone:

a.) All of our plans are drawn using imperial system measurements in the scale of one-quarter inch (1/4”) to one foot (1’-0”) or if required in scale one eight inch(1/8”) to one foot(1’0”) or as specified on the drawings.
b.) All plans can be converted to metric units on request. If you require a plan in metric units please contact us.
c.) All of our plans are drawn using CAD (computer aided design) technology in order to provide maximum accuracy and legibility
d.) Building dimensions (width and length) on all building plan set represent the overall dimensions of the outer perimeter of the building, including any attached garage or carport, and also including any front porch. The dimensions do not include balconies, boxed windows, or sundecks.
e.) Partial dimensions are shown from the outside of the perimeter wall to the inside of the next finished or exterior partition.
f.) Dimensions shown for each room represent the clear inside room size, not including built-in closets (where applicable).
g.) Room width is always indicated by the first (left hand side) number, while the length is indicated by the second (right hand side) number (for example, 10’-0”x 12’-0” indicates a room 10 feet 0 inches wide and 12 feet 0 inches long). This principle is also used for the dimensions of windows and doors
h.) Floor height is measured from floor to floor for the first floor, and from the floor to ceiling for the top floor.
i.) Total square footage (area) shown on each floor indicates the overall finishes living area inside the perimeter walls, but does not include the area of attached garages, carports, sundecks, balconies, and porches
j.) Where a plan includes an unfinished semi- or underground basement, the area of that floor is not included in the computation of finished living area. If it is finished with all the inside partitions, bathroom and kitchen layout, windows and doors dimensions and other finish components there will be an extra charge. That will be determined and discussed contacting UrbanHousePlans.com by email.

CONFORMITY TO NORTH AMERICAN BUILDING CODE

The plans on UrbanHousePlans.com conform to most national and local building codes and bylaws in the United States and Canada. While they are designed to meet or exceed most national building standards, your particular country, state, province, or municipality may have its own specific code or bylaws.

All the plans at UrbanHousePlans.com are compliant with the National Building Code at the time of their creation.

Since North America has so many different climatic and geographic regions due to their size, North American municipalities have developed their own building codes, regulations, and zoning requirements to meet their individual situations. These differences may need to be reflected in modifications to our building plans to meet local regulations and conditions.

As an example, adjustments may have to be made if unusual snow loads, wind loads, earthquake factor or particular soil conditions occur in you area. These factors influence the load bearing capability of the structure.

Additionally, your local building authority may require an engineering report and professional seal. We suggest that you obtain the service of a registered engineer who is familiar with local conditions and who is able to provide an on-site inspection if it is required. It is the responsibility of the owner or purchaser of our plans to obtain all necessary information and approval prior to starting construction, and to ensure that the plans meet local building zoning regulations.

UrbanHousePlans.com does not in any way guarantee or takes any responsibility that our plans content of this site are suitable for any particular application.

You should consult a local design professional or builder to assist in any necessary modifications prior to building. Furthermore you should contact your local building authorities to ensure the plans comply with all regulations and codes. They will be able to provide for you all the necessary permits and scheduled inspection you will require as construction progresses.