Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about buying a plan, what's included, and what to expect along the way. Can't find your answer? Get in touch →

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About Our Plans

What is a house plan?

A house plan, also called a floor plan, blueprint, or set of construction documents, is the complete architectural design package your builder uses to construct your home. Think of it as the instruction book: every room, every wall, every elevation drawn out and dimensioned so your builder, engineer, and building department are all working from the same page. When you buy a plan from Rocky Mountain Plan Company, you're purchasing a license to build that design once, on one lot. Learn more about house plan license agreements →
What's included in a plan set?

Every Rocky Mountain Plan Company digital plan set includes:

  • Cover Sheet: Home elevation and general notes index
  • Specifications: Material and installation notes based on national industry standards
  • Foundation Layout: Overall dimensions and footing references (structural engineering not included – see below)
  • Floor Plans: All floors, fully dimensioned, with doors, windows, walls, stairways, and built-ins noted
  • Sections: A slice through the structure showing stories, foundation, wall construction, roofing, framing, and insulation
  • Exterior Elevations: All four sides with dimensions, heights, and exterior materials
  • Roof Ridge Plan: Roof pitches, slope directions, layout, and overhang dimensions
  • Electrical Plan: Location of outlets, fixtures, and switches
  • Details: Interior and exterior details explaining design intent

What's not included and why: Structural engineering, HVAC, plumbing, energy compliance documents, site plan, truss engineering, and materials lists. These are all site-specific. Your local engineer, builder, and subs handle them as part of every residential build, and they'd need to be revised for your site anyway regardless of what a stock plan showed. See our full What's Included page for more detail →
How is square footage calculated?

Listed square footage reflects total heated, finished living space, meaning every conditioned room in the home, including finished lower levels when shown as complete. It does not include garages, unfinished areas, decks, porches, or other outdoor spaces. For walkout basement plans, we list both above-grade and total heated square footage, since the finished lower level adds significant livable space that's important to factor into your budget and comparisons.
What is a Bid Set?

A bid set includes the floor plan and elevation sheets from a plan – everything a builder needs to give you a realistic construction estimate. It's the right tool if you've found a plan you like but want to get real cost estimates from builders before you commit to the full plan set. Bid sets are $500, and that full $500 comes back as credit toward any plan purchase when you're ready.

To request one, get in touch →
Do your plans specify framing type?

We intentionally leave framing type – truss versus stick framing – for your builder and structural engineer to determine based on local preferences, code requirements, and cost. This is by design, not an oversight. Our standard specification is 2x6 exterior walls, which is the norm for mountain and cold-climate construction. Your builder will know what works best for your area.

Plan Formats & Delivery

What's the difference between PDF and CAD files?

Both formats give you a complete plan set. The difference is what you can do with them afterward.

PDF is a high-resolution, non-editable digital file. You can print as many copies as you need for your builder, engineer, subs, lender, and building department. Minor field adjustments can be made via redline by your local professionals.

CAD (.dwg) files are editable digital files that give your designer or engineer the flexibility to make changes directly in the drawing. If you're planning significant modifications, building on a complex site, or your engineer prefers to work in native files, adding CAD (+$500) is worth it. You can also add CAD after purchase by contacting us.

Still not sure? Start with PDF. Full comparison: PDF vs. CAD →
What is a right-reading reverse?

A right-reading reverse mirrors the entire plan layout – flipping which side the garage is on, for example – while keeping all dimensions, notes, and text fully readable. This is different from simply flipping a PDF, which makes all the text backwards and unusable by your build team. If your lot, views, or street orientation call for a mirrored layout, a right-reading reverse (+$250) is the right solution. It adds 3-4 business days to delivery. Full explainer: What is a right-reading reverse? →
What add-ons are available?

Before checkout, you can add:

  • CAD Files (+$500) — Editable .dwg files for your engineer or designer
  • Right-Reading Reverse (+$250) — Mirrored layout with all text remaining readable; adds 3-4 business days
  • Unlimited Build License (+$500) — Build the same plan as many times as you'd like; also available any time after purchase
  • Foundation options — Where available, select from slab, crawl space, daylight basement, or walkout basement at checkout
When will I receive my files?

All plans are delivered within 1-2 business days of your signed license (Monday–Friday). Right-reading reverse or non-standard foundation options add 3-4 business days. Weekend orders begin processing Monday.

Didn't receive your files? Check your spam and Promotions folders first. Still nothing? Email us at elevate@rockymountainplan.com and we'll sort it out right away.

Licensing & Copyright

What is a license agreement, and what does it cover?

When you purchase a plan, you'll receive a Single-Structure License Agreement for a quick digital signature. Both you and Rocky Mountain Plan Company sign, and each of you receives a copy. The license allows you to build the plan once, on one lot, and to print unlimited copies for everyone involved in your build: your builder, engineer, subcontractors, lender, and building department. The license is issued in your name and is not transferable. Plain-English license overview →
Can I give a copy of my plans to my builder?

Yes, absolutely. The license includes the right to print as many copies as you need and share them with everyone working on your build. What the license doesn't permit: passing the plans to someone not involved in your project, or building the same plan a second time on a different lot without an additional license.
What if I want to build the same plan more than once?

You'll need either an additional Single-Structure License for each additional build, or an Unlimited Build License (+$500) if you plan to build it multiple times. The Unlimited Build License is available at checkout or any time after your original purchase – the price is always the same. Just reach out and we'll get it added.
What is your refund policy?

All plan purchases are final sale. Because digital files can be printed or copied once received, we're not able to offer returns, exchanges, or refunds.

We genuinely want you to feel confident before you buy. Please double-check your lot dimensions and reach out to us with any questions before you finalize your order. We're happy to help you make sure a plan is the right fit.

Exception: If you receive a file that is corrupted, defective, or incorrect, contact us within 48 hours of receipt. We'll evaluate it immediately and get you the correct files.

Building, Codes & Local Professionals

Are your plans stamped by an architect or engineer?

Our plans do not come pre-stamped, and that's standard across the stock plan industry, not a gap in our designs. Most jurisdictions require a licensed local structural engineer to review the plans for your specific site conditions – snow load, wind zone, seismic zone, soil, etc. – and apply their stamp before issuing a building permit. Mountain and hillside lots especially tend to trigger this requirement. If you'd like a referral to a trusted engineering firm, just ask.
Do your plans meet my local building codes?

Our plans are designed to meet the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) – the national baseline adopted by most states as a starting point. States and local jurisdictions layer their own amendments on top of the IRC based on local conditions. Before you build, you'll want to run your plans by your local building department and a local engineer who knows your specific area's requirements. A visit to your building department, either in person or via their website, is the fastest way to get a clear picture of what you'll need.
What else do I need before I can build?

Beyond the plan set, most builds require:

  • Structural engineering and stamping — Required for permitting in most jurisdictions and especially common in mountain areas
  • A site plan — Shows where your home sits on your specific lot and produced by a local surveyor or engineer
  • Energy compliance documents — Required by many building departments, and your local engineer or designer handles this
  • MEP plans — Some building departments require separate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings – your builder and subs typically coordinate this
  • A geotechnical report — Often required for sloped or hillside lots to assess soil stability and groundwater

Your builder is a great first resource. They've navigated this process before and can tell you exactly what your local building department typically requires.
Why don't the plans include HVAC or plumbing?

HVAC systems and plumbing are site-specific. They depend on your local climate, fuel availability, local code requirements, and your personal preferences. Including them in a stock plan would mean they'd almost certainly need to be revised for your site anyway. Your builder coordinates your mechanical, electrical, and plumbing subcontractors as part of every residential build so they’ll know exactly what to do.

Modifications

Can I modify a plan?

Yes, and it's completely normal. Most buyers make at least some changes to a stock plan, from minor adjustments to meaningful layout changes. Modifications are permitted under your license for site adaptation and personal customization.
What can my builder handle on-site versus what needs to go in the plans?

Minor things, like outlet placement, finish selections, and small interior tweaks, are often handled casually on-site by an experienced builder. Plan-level changes, like moving walls, adjusting room configurations, changing window placement, or structural modifications, should go through a designer or drafter before construction. If you're unsure where your change falls, your builder or a local design professional can usually tell you quickly.
How do I get a plan modified?

For plan-level changes, we'd encourage you to start with a local drafter or design professional who knows your area's codes and site conditions. They're often the fastest and most cost-effective path, and familiarity with local requirements makes a real difference. Our drafters are also available to help if you'd prefer.

Get in touch to discuss →

For scope and general cost ranges, see our Modification Guide →

Choosing a Plan & More Help

Should I buy a lot before I buy a plan?

Usually, yes. Purchasing your lot first is the typical and recommended sequence. Your lot's dimensions, slope, orientation, and setbacks determine the size and footprint of the home you can build there, which should guide your plan search. That said, if you've found a plan you love and are shopping for the right lot to fit it, that works too. Either way, a visit to your local building department early in the process is one of the most useful things you can do. They'll tell you exactly what's required before you break ground.
How do I find the right plan for me?

Start with what you know for certain: how many bedrooms you need, the approximate square footage that fits your budget, and the footprint dimensions your lot allows. From there, floor plan style matters more than exterior style. The layout determines how you actually live in the home, while exterior elements (siding, trim, facade details) can often be adjusted through modifications. Our Hillside, ADU, and Mountain collections are a great place to start if you have a specific site or use in mind. Still not sure where to begin? Get in touch – we're happy to help you narrow it down.
I'm a builder or developer. How can Rocky Mountain Plan Company help?

Our catalog of mountain-inspired designs is built with builders and developers in mind – from single-family homes to ADUs and multi-unit concepts. If you're building the same plan more than once, an Unlimited Build License (+$500) covers you. If you're working at volume or want ongoing access to our catalog, our Elevated Builder Advantage Program is designed for you. Learn more about the Builder Program →
I have a question that wasn't answered here. How do I get in touch?

We're a small team and we're easy to reach.

Email: elevate@rockymountainplan.com 

We typically respond within one business day. If you're not sure whether a plan will work for your lot, want guidance before you purchase, or just have a question about the process, please reach out. We'd rather answer your questions up front than have you figure it alone.

Can't find your answer?

Get in touch →

We're happy to walk you through anything before you purchase.