The simple answer
Start by confirming whether the property is in a city, town, or unincorporated county area. Then search that jurisdiction's permit portal or records system by address. If records are missing or unclear, existing-condition drawings may still be needed.
Practical permit-history search steps
Confirm the correct jurisdiction before searching
Check the city, town, or county permit portal by property address
Search related records such as parcel, assessor, or planning information
Gather old plans, seller documents, inspection reports, or contractor paperwork
Compare records against what is currently built
Document gaps before deciding what drawings are needed
Where information may come from
No single record source tells the whole story every time. Permit portals, assessor data, old documents, and measured field information may all help explain what was built.
Jurisdiction portals
Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, Maricopa County, and other jurisdictions may have different online systems for permits, plan review, inspections, and records.
Assessor and parcel records
Assessor sketches and property records may provide clues, but they are not the same as permit-approved construction drawings.
Old plans and owner documents
Prior plans, builder drawings, HOA documents, appraisal sketches, listing photos, and contractor paperwork can help reconstruct the project history.
Existing conditions
The current home may differ from records. Field-measured as-built drawings can help clarify what is actually there now.
Jurisdiction matters
A Phoenix address, Mesa address, Scottsdale address, Queen Creek address, and unincorporated Maricopa County property may all use different portals and records processes.
Records may not answer every question
If the records do not match the home, read why cities ask for as-built drawings.
Need help documenting existing conditions?
Residential Design can help prepare measured as-built drawings and residential documentation when permit history is missing, unclear, or inconsistent with the current home.