When you’re planning to build a new home or undertake a significant renovation, one of the first steps is to have a detailed blueprint or house plan. These documents are crucial for obtaining building permits and for the construction process itself. Here, we’ll explore the costs associated with drafting these important plans, including factors that affect pricing and tips for budgeting.
Key Takeaways
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $30 – $120 depending on the drafter’s experience and region |
| Cost Per Square Foot | Ranges from $0.35 to $5.00, reflecting the complexity of plans |
| Total Cost for Complete House Plans | Typically between $700 and $10,000 for a standard 2,000 SF home |
| Additional Costs | Includes CAD sheets, blueprint printing, and other drafting fees |
| Comparison | Drafting costs vs. Architect fees, showcasing affordability |
Cost of Drafting House Plans
Drafting house plans can vary significantly based on the size of the house and the detail required. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
By House Size
- 1,000 SF: $350 – $5,000
- 1,500 SF: $500 – $7,500
- 2,000 SF: $700 – $10,000
- 2,500 SF: $900 – $12,500
- 3,000 SF: $1,000 – $15,000
- 3,500 SF: $1,200 – $17,500
By Project Type
- Drafter Fees Only: $800 – $3,500
- House Designer + Engineer + Drafter: $5,000 – $15,000
- Architect Firm (all-in-one): $10,000 – $30,000
Average Residential Drafting Fees
- Hourly Rate: $30 – $120
- Per Square Foot: $0.35 – $5.00
- Per CAD Sheet: $35 – $180 per sheet
- Blueprint Printing Costs: Varies from $0.05 to $40.00 per sheet, depending on the paper type
Specific Service Types
- Freelance Drafter: $30 – $85 per hour
- Construction & Design Company Drafter: $80 – $120 per hour
Factors Affecting Drafting Costs
The cost of drafting can vary based on several factors:
- Type of Plan: Stock, semi-custom, or custom
- Detail and Complexity: More detailed plans with custom specifications cost more
- Professional Experience: Highly experienced drafters or firms charge more
Drafting Services vs. Architect Services
It’s important to note the difference between drafting and architect services. While a drafter may charge $80 to $120 per hour, architects can charge between $100 and $250 per hour. Architects take on more comprehensive roles, including custom design creation and overseeing the entire project.
Tips for Hiring Drafting Services
When hiring someone to draft your house plans, consider the following:
- Check Qualifications: Ensure they have the necessary credentials and experience.
- Review Past Work: Ask for samples of previous projects.
- Get Detailed Quotes: Understand what’s included in their services.
- Compare Costs: Don’t just go for the cheapest option; consider the value they provide.
For more on building costs and considerations, explore Cost to Build a House.
By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, you can ensure that your building project starts off on the right foot with a solid set of blueprints or house plans.
Drafting Blueprints for Specific Home Additions and Renovations
When it comes to drafting blueprints for specific projects like additions, extensions, or significant remodeling, the costs can vary based on the scope and detail of the plans required. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
Blueprint Costs for Different Drawing Types
- Site Plans: $100 – $1,500
- Extension or Addition Plans: $1,200 – $5,000
- As-Built Drawing Plans: $700 – $1,300
- Altering Plans: $150 – $2,500
- Submitting Building Plans: $600 – $3,000
Costs for Specific Remodeling Blueprints
- Residential Site Plan for Remodeling: Costs associated with drafting blueprints for remodeling projects, which are typically detailed to ensure all new constructions are accurately represented.
- Addition or Extension Plans: Drafting for extensions requires detailed measurements and compliance with local zoning laws, which can increase the cost.
- As-Built Plans: Essential for renovations, ensuring that the draft reflects the existing structures accurately before any changes.
- Altering Custom House Plans: Costs range from $150 to $2,500 depending on the extent of changes needed.
Commercial and Civil Drafting Costs
- Commercial Building Plans: Generally, drafting for commercial projects can cost between 3% to 12% of the total construction costs, reflecting the complexity and regulatory requirements.
- Civil Drafts: These can run from 2% to 15% of construction costs, especially for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Cost to Submit Building Plans
Submitting building plans to local authorities for approval includes several fees:
- Initial Plan Review Fees: $100 – $1,000
- Building Permit: $500 – $2,000
- Total Cost to Submit: $600 – $3,000
This process is crucial as it ensures your building plans comply with local codes and regulations.
Blueprint Printing Costs
The cost of printing your blueprints can also add up, especially depending on the type of paper used:
- 20-pound Paper: $0.05 – $7.00 per sheet
- 24-pound Paper: $0.10 – $10.00 per sheet
- Tyvek: $2.55 – $21.00 per sheet (waterproof and durable)
- Vellum: $2.90 – $30.00 per sheet (thick, erasable, and translucent)
- Mylar: $6.00 – $40.00 per sheet (fade-proof and durable)
These materials are chosen based on durability and the specific needs of the project, such as weather resistance or frequent handling.
Additional Drafting Fees and Comparisons
When hiring drafting services, it’s important to understand all potential fees, which can include CAD sheet costs, rush fees for expedited service, and additional costs for revisions. Here’s a brief on typical add-on fees:
- CAD Drafting Cost Per Sheet: Ranging from $35 to $690 depending on the urgency and complexity.
- Add-on Drafting Fees: For additional details, custom elements, or rush orders.
Architect vs. Drafter Cost
Choosing between an architect and a drafter depends on your project needs:
- Drafter: More cost-effective for straightforward projects; primarily focuses on drawing plans based on existing ideas.
- Architect: Essential for custom designs, structural changes, and overseeing complex projects; more expensive due to comprehensive services.
For those considering DIY options, floor plan software can range from free basic versions to professional subscriptions costing up to $600.
As you move forward with drafting your house plans or blueprints, consider these costs and options carefully. Understanding these aspects will help you budget effectively and choose the right professionals for your project. For further reading on cost considerations when building a house, you may explore articles like Is It Cheaper to Build or Buy a House? which offers a detailed comparison to aid in decision-making.
