Frequently Asked Questions
When ordering plans off of the internet or out of a magazine is there any other information my Building Department will need?
Unless specified, plans purchased off the internet or from magazines do not include a Site Plan for your project. They typically also do not include Structural Design Calculations or California Title 24 Energy Calculations. After purchasing these plans, you will still need to hire somebody to provide these services for you. Sierra Pacific Home Designs provides these services with each of our homes.
How do I obtain roof truss calculations?
Within the greater Sacramento area, we provide you the roof truss calculations and submittal package. If your project is outside of the greater Sacramento area, you will need these calculations from your local truss company. We will also need to review these truss calculations which are easily emailed.
What happens if the Building Department wants some changes?
Sierra Pacific Home Designs will be with you until you receive your Building Permit. All you need to do is e-mail us with the list of changes. We will provide you with a complete new package for re-submittal to the Building Department.
How long will it be to get my plans?
Sierra Pacific Home Designs typically will send you your plans within 10 business days after ordering. If you order a plan and want modifications, this time may increase. For complete new home design, plan on a longer period. Remember, we are designing a new home and want to make sure we have all of your needs and wants covered.
Is there anything Sierra Pacific Home Designs does not include that my Building Department may want?
As stated, outside of the greater Sacramento area, we do not provide roof truss calculations. We also don’t provide soils engineering, electrical engineering or mechanical engineering if these are required by your local Building Department. We will work with these disciplines and incorporate any necessary information into the plans. Some Building Jurisdictions require what is called “Structural Observation”. This means that along with the local Building Inspections, a licensed Engineer also needs to perform “Structural Observation” inspections. Out of the greater Sacramento area, Sierra Pacific Home Designs do not perform these “Structural Observation” inspections. Also, in areas where no sewer service is available and you need an on-site system, Sierra Pacific Home Designs will incorporate any information on the Site Plan as provided by your Soils Engineer for this on-site system. Some building jurisdictions/subdivisions require a topographic survey of your lot. Sierra Pacific Home Designs does not provide this service but will need prior to development of the Site Plan. This topographic survey can be performed by a Surveyor or Civil Engineer in your area.
What does Sierra Pacific Home Designs provide that other internet and magazines don't do?
A complete set of plans ready to submit to your building department. Over and above what other house plan services provide, we also include your site plan, California Title 24 Energy Calculations, Truss Calculations (within the greater Sacramento area) and Structural Calculations (if needed), all conforming to the California Residential Code and your local building jurisdiction codes.