This article explains the most common types of exterior wall failures found in Philadelphia homes, especially historic rowhouses, and what causes them over time, such as moisture, aging materials, and structural movement. It also outlines how to identify these issues early and provides practical repair solutions to prevent more serious damage. Overall, it emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance to preserve both the structural integrity and historic character of these buildings.

This article explains that in Philadelphia, whether a property can be single-family, duplex, or multi-family depends entirely on its zoning designation, not the physical layout of the building. It breaks down the differences between RSA, RT, and RM districts and highlights common misconceptions homeowners and investors make. Ultimately, it emphasizes that checking zoning first is critical to avoiding costly legal and financial mistakes.

This blog explains how new and evolving requirements from the City of Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections are reshaping the way construction projects that impact neighboring properties must be planned, documented, and executed. It summarizes why these rules exist, outlines the core components; pre-construction surveys, monitoring plans, and neighbor notifications, and highlights upcoming 2026 changes affecting permits, inspections, insurance, and coordination.

Philadelphia’s Atlas tool (atlas.phila.gov) is a free, interactive map that centralizes property data from multiple city departments, allowing users to look up assessments, ownership, zoning, permits, violations, and neighborhood context for nearly any property in the city. Continue reading to learn all there is about this tool.

This blog explores how historic Philadelphia homes can be thoughtfully adapted for modern living without losing their original character. It explains why old layouts often feel impractical today, outlines smart design strategies for improving flow, light, and functionality, and clarifies what historic regulations actually mean for homeowners. Ultimately, it shows how old and new can coexist, preserving charm while creating spaces that truly work for contemporary life.

Planning a renovation or new build and not sure who you actually need to hire? This post untangles the often confused roles of drafters, designers, architects, and engineers, so you don’t overhire, underhire, or hit unexpected roadblocks. Read on to learn who does what, when each role matters, and how the right team can save you time, money, and stress.

This article explains why a site visit is a critical first step in the design process at Jane Draws Plans. It outlines what happens during a site visit, how firsthand observations shape accurate and site-specific drawings, and why this step is especially important for renovations. Overall, the piece emphasizes that understanding real conditions before drawing leads to better designs, fewer surprises, and smoother projects for clients.

This article breaks down the essentials of mold: what causes it, how to recognize its severity, and what steps to take to fix and prevent it. It also explains smart design and planning, like the approach used at Jane Draws Plans to stop moisture problems before they start.

In this post, we break down one of the most misunderstood parts of the building process in Philadelphia, Special Inspections. It explains what they are, why they exist, and when projects are required to have them, helping owners, designers, and contractors stay compliant with both City and IBC standards. You’ll learn who performs these inspections, how the process works from permit to close-out, and how to avoid common mistakes that can delay construction or approval.

Floor plans are like a visual language; once you learn how to read them, you can see an entire building come to life on paper. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, collaborating with an architect, or designing your own space, this guide will walk you through the essentials. From understanding scale and line weights to decoding doors, windows, and furniture symbols, you’ll learn how to read any plan with confidence.

Read along to explore the unique challenges of designing code-compliant stairs in Philadelphia’s narrow rowhomes. You will learn all about the common mistakes that cause stair failures during inspections, like riser height, headroom, and landing issues all while exploring options on how to avoid them.

Breaking down the mystery of foundation cracks. This article will help homeowners spot the difference between harmless cosmetic lines and serious structural issues that can threaten safety and value.

Philadelphia’s skyline is best enjoyed from above—and for many city homeowners, a rooftop deck is the perfect urban escape. Before you start dreaming about rooftop sunsets, it’s important to understand that building a roof deck in Philly comes with strict zoning rules, structural challenges, and a multi-step permitting process. This blog breaks down everything you need to know—from zoning laws to smart design choices—so you can plan your rooftop design the right way.

Natural light can completely transform the feel of a home. In Philadelphia, getting that light inside isn’t always straightforward. Here’s what you need to know to get natural light into your home while maintaining the balance between light and code compliance.

 Learn everything you need to know about obtaining an Excavation Permit in Philadelphia—who needs one, how to apply, key requirements, and how to stay compliant with city regulations.

In this blog, we explore one of. the most common and misunderstood obstacles to successfully closing out a makesafe violation in Philly. Read here to find out what it is, and how to avoid it.

Assembling the proper team for your construction projects is extremely important. Your contractor is the conductor of your project, with you entrusting them with the execution of your vision. Let’s talk about come things you should consider when selecting a contractor for your project.

Philadelphia rowhomes are iconic but come with unique design challenges. From maximizing narrow spaces to enhancing natural light, a thoughtful floor plan ensures functionality while preserving historic charm. Whether renovating for family living, entertaining, or working from home, these tips will help you transform your rowhome into a timeless, modern space.

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Philadelphia's booming construction is revitalizing neighborhoods but endangering its historic rowhomes. With over half of the city’s 450,000 rowhouses over 90 years old, improper construction practices—like foundation disturbances, vibration damage, and inadequate bracing—threaten these structures. Compliance with safety codes and expert oversight, like JaneDrawsPlans offers, is essential to safeguarding Philadelphia's architectural heritage.