While it is not necessary to have your home designed by a local architect it is required that you have a qualified engineer look over your plans and have them certified here.

There are many issues here that need to be considered that may not be relevant in your present location. Earthquakes, although infrequent still need to be considered when designing your home. Likewise issues such as soil structure, foundation work and access to materials all need to be considered while in the design phase of any project, to save you headaches down the road.

There are numerous certified and knowledgable architects in the area and your contractor should be able to set up a meeting for you to discuss your ideas or go over your existing plans. Local realtors may also be able to steer you in the right direction. You should also stipulate in any agreement that the engineer visits the worksite at regular intervals to avoid the inevitable changes that can ruin your plans or cost you time and money down the road.