Do I need to hire an Architect?

My wife and I are interested in building our own home. Do we need an architect to do this? Specifically I mean, do I need an architect legally to get a building permit to build a home?



Sincerely,
DraftHappy

The short answer to that is: probably not.

The long answer is: each state and local jurisdiction will vary a little bit. In general, many places do not require a stamped set of drawings from a licensed architect in order to obtain a building permit for most single-family residential homes. Generally there is a maximum size you can design without needing an architect. Again, this varies by jurisdiction but usually if your home is less than 5,000 sf than you will be fine. I live in Nebraska where the limit is 10,000 sf. Here is what they say:

"10,000 sq. ft. Structures (International Building Code Classification Group R-3)
All residential structures 10,000 sq. ft. or larger must be designed by an architect and/or professional engineer. This includes:
Single family homes"

Now whether you need to vs. whether you should hire an architect is an entirely different question!
Good Luck!

If you've never built a house there are many many hurdles to jump over. Getting a Building Permit is just the beginning of it.