Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that you might have questions. Purchasing a house plan is a big investment. We listen to our customers and we update this page frequently to provide answers to the most common questions we receive.  If you have additional questions fill out the form below and we'd be happy to assist you!

FAQ

What is included with a house plan purchase?

Each plan purchase includes construction drawings and a license to build the home. Most plans include floor plans, foundation plans, exterior elevations, roof plans, basic electrical layouts, sections, details, and general construction notes. Specific inclusions may vary by design. Please visit our What is in a Plan Set page for more info.

Are your house plans ready for permitting?

Our plans are designed to meet or exceed standard residential design guidelines based on the International Residential Code (IRC). However, local building requirements vary by state, county, and municipality. Your local building department may require additional engineering, energy calculations, soil reports, or stamped drawings before approving permits.

Do your plans include structural engineering or stamped drawings?

Stock plans are not pre-engineered or pre-stamped because engineering requirements differ widely depending on location, climate, wind exposure, snow loads, seismic conditions, and soil types.

If your local jurisdiction requires stamped drawings, you may need to hire a licensed engineer or architect in your state to review and approve the plans.

Are HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical plans included?

HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical layouts are usually completed locally because system requirements vary based on climate, utility locations, local codes, and personal preferences.

Your local HVAC contractor, plumber, electrician, or builder can prepare these systems for your specific project.

Can I modify a house plan?

Yes! Most plans can be customized to better fit your needs, lot requirements, or design preferences.

Get more information by visiting our Modification services page.

What is the difference between PDF and CAD plan packages?

PDF plans are digital construction drawings delivered electronically. They can be printed locally or shared with builders and subcontractors for estimating and construction purposes.

CAD plans include AutoCAD drawing files in addition to PDF drawings. These files allow others to make custom modifications more easily.

How quickly will I receive my plans?

Digital PDF and CAD plans are typically delivered within 1–2 business days. We will contact you if it will be longer.

Modification requests and add-on options may require additional processing time.

How many times can I build from one plan purchase?

PDF or CAD purchase includes a license to build one home only. Additional licenses are required if you plan to build the design multiple times.

Can printed plan sets be copied?

Yes, PDF or CAD purchases allow authorized printing and sharing with the professionals involved in your project.

How is square footage calculated?

Square footage includes heated living space measured from the exterior wall framing. Garages, porches, decks, bonus rooms, unfinished basements, storage spaces, and similar areas are typically not included unless specifically noted.

How much will it cost to build my home?

Construction costs vary significantly based on:

Location
Labor and material costs
Site conditions
Builder pricing
Home size and complexity
Interior finishes and selections

For the most accurate estimate, we recommend consulting a local builder familiar with your area and preferred level of finish.

Do you build homes?

No. Wright Jenkins Home Plans provides professionally designed house plans only. We do not build, sell, or deliver homes or prefab structures.

Do you offer custom home design services?

Yes. In addition to stock plans, fully custom home design services may also be available. Pricing and timelines depend on the size and complexity of the project.

Do you have photos, videos, or virtual tours of your plans?

Many plans include photos, renderings, videos, or interactive walkthroughs.

Can I see homes that have already been built from your plans?

To protect client privacy, we do not share homeowner locations or addresses. However, our plans have been built in many locations throughout the United States and internationally.

What size are the construction drawings?

Construction drawings are commonly formatted for printed hard copies at 24" x 36", though some may be larger depending on the design. Digital files can be printed at most local print shops or from a home printer at reduced scale.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept most major credit cards as well as secure online payment methods available through our checkout system.

Do you offer free shipping?

No, all of our PDF and CAD files are delivered electronically.

What if I have questions before ordering?

Our team is happy to help you select the right plan, understand plan features, discuss modifications, or answer questions about the building process.

What should I do after purchasing my house plans?

Before construction begins, you should:

  • Review the plans with your builder
  • Confirm local permitting requirements
  • Obtain any required engineering or stamped drawings
  • Coordinate HVAC, plumbing, and electrical layouts
  • Verify site placement and setback requirements
  • Finalize material selections and construction budgeting

Careful planning before permitting helps ensure a smoother building process.

How do I choose the right house plan?

Consider factors such as:

  • Building footprint limitations due to lot size, easements, building setbacks, and other restrictions like height and/or angle of light restrictions.
  • Family size and lifestyle
  • Desired square footage
  • Architectural style preferences
  • Future accessibility needs
  • Outdoor living spaces
  • Storage and garage requirements

If you find a plan that is close but not perfect, modifications can often customize it to better suit your needs.

What are specialty ceilings?

Specialty ceilings add architectural character and dimension to a home. Common types include:

  • Tray ceilings
  • Coffered ceilings
  • Vaulted ceilings
  • Stepped ceilings
  • Pyramid vaults
  • Cove lighting details

These features vary by plan and may be customized during modifications.

Do you offer plans for special construction types like ICF or SIPS?

Yes. Many plans can be adapted for specialized construction methods such as Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF), or Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) through modification services.

Still have a question? Or need more clarification? Just fill out this form and we'll get your your answers ASAP.