House Plan Zone
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan specs
What type of plan packages do you offer?
- PDF Files (Single Use and Unlimited Use Available) – This is a read-only electronic copy of the plans, delivered via email (no printed sets will be shipped). It includes a license to build the structure either once (Single-Use License) or multiple times (Unlimited-Use License), depending on the option purchased. You may print multiple copies of the plans as needed. This package also grants the right to modify the plans; however, any derivative works remain protected under federal copyright law.
- 5 Sets of Plan Plus PDF File – This package includes five printed sets of plans mailed directly to you, along with a Single-Use License (license will be sent via email) to build the structure one time. Plans are typically printed on 24x36 (ARCH D) bond paper. You’ll also receive a PDF version of the plans delivered via email for added convenience.
- CAD Files – Electronic files in .DWG format (version may vary) are provided for use by a local designer, architect, or engineer to make minor or major modifications. Files are typically delivered via email; no printed sets will be shipped. This package includes an Unlimited Use License, granting the right to modify, reproduce, and construct an unlimited number of homes based on the plan. CAD software will be required to open and modify these plans.
Can these plans be modified and how long will it take?
Most plans available on HPZplans.com can be modified to suit your specific needs. It's common for customers to purchase a stock plan and request custom changes. The cost and timeline for modifications vary based on the complexity of the changes and our current workload.
To begin, a PDF or CAD file plan package is typically required. For an accurate quote and estimated turnaround time, please contact us at 601-336-3254. Most modification quotes are provided within 24 hours.
What is included in each house plan purchase?
Below you will find a listing of the typical items found:
- Cover Sheet – May include index, front view of home, abbreviations, etc.
- Foundation Plan – Typically includes dimensioned foundation plan with footing details.
- Dimensioned Floor Plan – Dimensioned floor plan displaying items such as: door and window locations/sizes, plumbing fixtures, cabinet locations, etc. - electrical may also be shown.
- Exterior Views – Four exterior views of the residence with other miscellaneous details.
- Roof Plan – Birds eye view showing all ridges, valleys and other necessary information.
- Electrical Plan – Displays lighting fixtures, outlets and other necessary electrical items. These items may be shown on the Dimensioned Floor Plan. Switches are NOT shown and locations should be determined at site.
- Wall Section(s) – Detail of wall materials and assembly.
- Building Section(s) – Section through home displaying necessary information about framing and other miscellaneous data.
- Cabinet Elevations – Displays interior kitchen cabinet views.
*Note: The items listed above as “Not available on all plans” are not always required for every plan depending on location and complexity.
What codes or standards are HPZ plans designed for?
Plans on HPZplans.com were designed to meet the International Residential Code (IRC) in effect at the time of their creation. Due to regional requirements such as: high wind areas, seismic conditions, soil conditions, snow loads and other specific circumstances, we strongly recommend that the plans be reviewed by a local engineer or architect prior to construction. Many local building departments may require such a review or additional engineering. Please consult your local building authority to confirm requirements before placing your order.
Are the plans sold on HPZplans.com stamped by a Structural Engineer or Registered Architect?
No, the plans sold on HPZplans.com are NOT stamped by a structural engineer or registered architect. Due to regional requirements such as: high wind areas, seismic conditions, soil conditions, snow loads and other specific circumstances, we encourage you to consult with an engineer or architect familiar with conditions in your area prior to building. In addition, local building departments may require that the plans be reviewed and/or modified to comply with local requirements. Please check with your local building authority before placing your order.
Buyer's guide
How many times can I build this plan?
Unless you purchase a CAD File package or an Unlimited Use License, your purchase grants you the right to build one single structure from the plan. Under U.S. copyright law, constructing more than one home from a single-use license is a violation and is strictly prohibited.
If you plan to build the design more than once, please contact our customer service team to discuss options for additional build licenses or an unlimited use license to ensure full legal compliance.
How many sets of plans will I need to build my home and how/where to print?
We recommend purchasing the PDF file package, which gives you the flexibility to print as many sets as needed for construction. PDF files are convenient for sharing with vendors, subcontractors, your builder, lenders, and others by email or print.
Typically, at least one set will be needed for each of the following:
- Your builder
- Subcontractors
- Lending institution
- Local building department
- Architectural review board (if applicable)
- Personal reference
It’s also wise to plan for a few extra sets, as copies may be lost, damaged, or not returned during bidding or construction.
Contact your local print house such as Kinkos, Office Depot or other local providers for information and costs of their printing services. Plans should always be printed to scale and NEVER “fit to page”. The majority of our plans are formatted to 24”x36” (ARCH D) paper. This page size can be found in the PDF file you receive. If you have questions please contact us.
If you choose to purchase printed sets from HPZplans.com, additional copies can be ordered within 180 days of your initial purchase.
Can you design a custom home for me?
While we have extensive experience in custom home design, we are currently focused on offering pre-drawn house plans only. However, many of our existing plans can be modified to suit your needs.
Please feel free to contact us for more information or to discuss plan modification options.
What are the benefits of ordering a pre-drawn set of plans compared to a custom set?
There are several key advantages to purchasing a pre-drawn house plan instead of commissioning a fully custom home design:
- Time Savings – Pre-drawn plans are ready to go and can typically be delivered within a few days, while custom designs may take several weeks or even months to complete.
- Cost Efficiency – Pre-drawn plans usually cost under $2,000, whereas custom home designs can run $2–$4 per square foot, significantly increasing the overall cost.
- Proven Designs – Most pre-drawn plans have already been built and refined over time, meaning common layout issues have been addressed to improve functionality, flow, and efficiency.
Pre-drawn plans offer a smart, affordable, and time-saving solution for many homebuilders, especially when paired with optional modifications to personalize the design.
What is right reading reverse?
Right Reading Reverse is a mirrored version of a house plan in which the entire layout is flipped left to right—like looking at the original plan in a mirror. This is often done to better fit the lot or improve functionality.
For example, if the garage is shown on the left side in the original plan but would work better on the right for your property, a right reading reverse version may be ideal. The key benefit is that all text and dimensions remain readable (not reversed), making it easier for builders and contractors to follow on site.
How is square footage calculated?
Square footage is one of the most important factors when selecting a house plan, but it’s important to note that there is no universal industry standard for calculating it. Different designers may use different methods. For example, some calculate to the outside edge of exterior studs, while others include the entire wall thickness, such as brick or masonry veneers. These variations can result in noticeable differences—sometimes 50 square feet or more, depending on the size of the home. Please note that all of our square footages on hpzplans.com are calculated to the outside of the studwall and do NOT include brick or other exterior materials in the calculation.
In addition to the heated/cooled (living) square footage, it's also important to account for non-living areas like garages, covered porches, patios, and storage spaces. While these areas may not be climate-controlled, they still contribute to the overall cost and footprint of the home.
At HPZplans.com, we do our best to clearly list square footage for both living and non-living spaces on each plan to assist in your decision-making. If you have any questions or concerns about how square footage is calculated for a specific plan, please contact us before placing your order.
Orders
How do I check on the status of my order?
To follow up on the status of a recent order, please contact us. Once your plans have shipped, a tracking number will be provided for your convenience.
If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Can I order more sets once my order has been placed?
Yes, additional sets of plans can be ordered up to 180 days after your original purchase. After this period, orders may be subject to full retail pricing.
Please contact us for more details or to place a reorder.
Can I return my plans once my order has been placed?
Due to copyright protections and the digital nature of our products, all sales are final and plans cannot be returned or refunded once your order has been placed.
If you need assistance selecting the right home plan before purchasing, please contact our customer service team. We’re committed to helping you find the perfect plan and ensuring your home plan buying experience is a success.
Is my personal information and credit card information secure?
HPZplans.com is dedicated to protecting your privacy. We use secure connections to safeguard your personal information. Rest assured, your personal data—including your email address—is never sold or shared with third parties.
Shipping
What types of shipping are available?
- Ground Delivery: Typically takes 5–7 business days, depending on your location. Orders are usually shipped within 24 hours.
- Second Day Delivery: Orders placed before 12:00 noon (CST) are shipped the same day. Please call to confirm availability.
- Overnight Delivery: Orders placed before 12:00 noon (CST) are shipped the same day. Please call to confirm availability.
- Email Delivery: CAD and PDF files are delivered via email, saving you time and shipping costs. There is no shipping charge with this option. Please call to confirm availability.
Can your plans be shipped to Canada?
Yes, we can ship plans to Canada; however, additional freight charges will apply. For the most convenient and cost-effective option, we recommend purchasing the PDF file package, which can be emailed directly to you. You can then have the plans printed locally at your preferred print shop.
Please contact our customer service team for further assistance.
Additional support
Do you offer builder discounts?
Yes, we do! For details about our builder discounts and opportunities, please contact us at 601.336.3254.
Looking for Something Custom?
Please contact our expert designers to discuss how we can modify one of our existing plans just for you.