FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why should I purchase plans from RBA Homes?
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Founded in 2001, RBA Architects has been serving the building industry for more than 23 years. We have completed over 2500 homes in that time and have built a reputation for clear, concise drawings.
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RBA Homes is a division of RBA Architects, LLC and has a full staff at the ready to assist you.
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RBA Homes only sells plans that we have created and have been built successfully.
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Technical Support – RBA Homes. offers technical support. Therefore, if you have any questions regarding your plan purchase, we are here to assist you.
What is a License Fee?
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In consideration of payment of the building fee (plan purchase), which is a part of the price you paid for this product. RBA Homes, as Licensor, grants you, the Licensee, the non-exclusive right to use and construct one structure from these documents. RBA reserves all rights not expressly granted to Licensees.
What do I receive within my construction documents?
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The construction documents include the following: Cover sheet with general notes, floor plans, foundation, roof plan, Elevations with framing layouts, detailed to 1/4" scale, detail sheets.
How many times can I build the plan?
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With each license fee purchase, RBA Homes grants you permission to construct one building. If you are interested in building the plan several times, please contact us and we can discuss a discount license fee proposal.
Can I make copies of the plans?
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RBA Homes technical drawings and the accompanying material are copyrighted. Unauthorized copying of these documents is expressly forbidden. You may be held legally responsible for any copyright infringement that is caused or encouraged by your failure to abide by the terms of RBA Homes License Agreement.
How long will it take before I get my order?
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When purchasing a pre-designed (stock) plan without modifications, our turn-around time is within 2-3 days from the purchase date - we update every plan to meet current IRC code requirements before any documents are printed.
Can I purchase reproducible copies?
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Reproducible sets are available outside the state of Virginia and are subject to the terms of our License Agreement.
What is Structural Engineering?
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Most jurisdictions require structural engineering calculations that meet the lot requirements they place on each parcel. These requirements include wind speeds, exposure ratings, snow loads, seismic zones, soil-bearing capacity, etc. A Licensed Engineer will perform a "Gravity and Lateral Analysis" to ensure whichever structure you choose to build will withstand those forces. That said, those calculations allow the engineer to size beams and headers and call out specific sheer wall values and foundation/footing requirements, all the way down to nailing patterns.
Does RBA Homes provide modifications?
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Yes, if you are interested in enlarging a plan, changing an elevation, or modifying a plan to accommodate your lifestyle, we can help. Our modification department specializes with custom revisions to our pre-designed plans. We provide modifications to all of our plans; RBA charges $90.00 per hour for modification services. Please contact our office to discuss the modifications desired.
If I want to set the plan up as a Base Plan, what do I need to do?
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First, a License Fee must be purchased from RBA Homes
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Second, RBA Homes will provide a Base Plan authorization letter to be submitted to the Building Department for that particular design.
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All future permits must be preceded by a License Fee purchased from RBA Homes and our Base Plan Release Letter.
Exchanges and Refunds?
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RBA Homes. does not offer refunds. However, if the entire purchase is returned, we will credit the License fee toward a new License fee of equal or greater value. No cash refund.
What should I do if I find a structure discrepancy?
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While every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of these drawings. All information must be verified prior to ordering any raw materials or fabricated components. Any structural components specified are for reference only and must be verified with the engineer of record or attached documents. However, if you find a structural discrepancy, please contact our office immediately, and we will assist you with the matter.