Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about buying and using house plans from BH Designs.
Ordering & Payment
How do I purchase a house plan?
Browse our catalogue, click on any plan, select your format (PDF or CAD), add it to your cart and proceed to checkout. We accept all major credit and debit cards via Stripe — fully secure.
What formats are available?
We offer three options: PDF – 1 Set (single build licence), PDF – 5 Sets (multiple builds), and CAD Files (.dwg) + Reproducible (unlimited prints). PDF is recommended for most clients. CAD is ideal if your architect or engineer needs to make digital modifications.
Are all sales final?
Yes. Because house plans are digital products delivered immediately upon purchase, all sales are final. We strongly encourage you to review the plan details, floor plans, and sample plan carefully before purchasing. Contact us if you have any questions before buying.
Do you offer price matching?
Yes. If you find the same plan at a lower price on another South African platform, contact us within 10 business days of your order and we will match the price plus give you an additional 10% off.
Delivery
How will I receive my plans?
All plans are delivered digitally by email. Once your payment is confirmed, you will receive your plan files as an email attachment or download link, typically within 1–2 business days.
How long does delivery take?
PDF plan sets are typically delivered within 1–2 business days. CAD file orders may take 1–2 business days. Orders placed over weekends or public holidays are processed the next business day.
What if I do not receive my plans?
Check your spam or junk folder first. If you still cannot find your plans, contact us at support@bhdesigns.co.za and we will resend them promptly.
Plans & Modifications
Can I modify a plan?
Yes. Modifications can be made to any plan. Use the "Request a Modification Quote" link on any plan page or contact us directly. You will receive a free, no-obligation quote and timeline within 1–3 business days. Common modifications include changing the garage orientation, adjusting room sizes, altering the foundation type, or adding/removing bedrooms.
What is included in a full plan set?
A full set of construction drawings prepared by the original architect or designer. This typically includes a site plan, floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, electrical layout, plumbing layout, and roof plan. The exact contents vary slightly by designer.
What does the square footage include?
The heated/living square footage shown on each plan does not include the garage, unfinished areas, or outdoor living spaces such as stoeps and patios. Total square footage including these areas is shown separately where available.
Can I see a sample plan before buying?
Yes. Many of our plans include a link to a free sample plan PDF so you can see the level of detail included before purchasing. Look for the "View a Free Sample Plan" button on the plan detail page.
What are CAD files?
CAD files are delivered in standard .dwg format, compatible with AutoCAD and most architectural software. They allow your local architect, engineer, or builder to make digital modifications and code updates directly. Contact us if you need a sample CAD file to check compatibility.
Building Codes & Compliance
Do your plans meet South African building codes?
Our plans were designed to meet industry-standard building codes at the time they were drawn. However, South African building regulations (SANS 10400) and local municipal requirements vary by province, city, and stand. You will likely need a local architect or engineer to review and stamp the plans for local authority submission.
Will I need to make changes for my local municipality?
Almost certainly yes. Every municipality in South Africa has its own submission requirements. A local draughtsperson, architect, or engineer will need to adapt the plans for your specific site, soil conditions, and local bylaws before submitting to council.
Do the plans come with an engineer's stamp?
No. Pre-drawn plans from BH Designs do not carry a stamp from a registered South African professional. You will need to have the plans reviewed and certified by a registered professional (PrEng or PrArch) for council submission.
Copyright & Usage
Can I use the plans to build more than once?
It depends on your licence. PDF – 1 Set allows a single build only. PDF – 5 Sets allows up to five builds. CAD + Reproducible allows unlimited prints and builds. Using a plan beyond your licence without authorisation is a breach of copyright.
Can I share or resell the plans?
No. The copyright to all plans is retained by the original designer. The licence granted to you is personal and non-transferable. Plans may not be copied, shared, resold, or passed on to any other individual or organisation.
Can my builder use the plans?
Yes — sharing the plans with your appointed builder, architect, or engineer for the purpose of constructing your home is permitted under your licence.
Account & Support
Do I need an account to purchase?
No, but we strongly recommend creating a free account. This lets you save favourite plans, view your order history, and re-download your plans at any time from your profile.
How do I contact support?
Email us at support@bhdesigns.co.za or use the contact form on our Contact page. We respond within 1–2 business days.