Guaranteed Sites Plans in Under 24 Hours
Whether you’re just sprucing up your space or building your dream home, there’s one step you can’t skip: getting detailed and reliable construction plans. While architects are the usual go-to professionals for these, they can be a costly option. But how much does an architect cost to draw plans? And is it your only option?
In this article, we break down the cost of an architect to draw house plans and discuss other alternatives that might better fit your project and budget.
Table of contents
How much does an architect cost to draw plans? What’s included in the cost to have an architect draw plans? Is the cost to have an architect draw plans worth it? When to hire an architect When not to hire an architect How to obtain construction plans without an architect Work with other construction professionals DIY Rely on stock plans Find an online drafting partner Get affordable and reliable site plans with MySitePlan Plan drawing FAQs
How much does an architect cost to draw plans?
Most architects charge a fixed fee for drawing plans, ranging anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000.
The cost to have an architect draw plans depends on how big or complex the project is, so some architects use these pricing models:
Hourly rates ($100 to $250) for small projects.
Percentage of total project cost (5 to 20%) for larger buildings.
Price by square footage ($2 to $15 per square foot) for new constructions.
And if you’re just after a specific part of the plans, the cost for the architect to draw up plans
varies by type. For instance, a site plan would set you back anywhere between $300 to $1,000, while a structural drawing usually costs around $500 to $2,000.
What’s included in the cost to have an architect draw plans?
When a firm provides the estimated cost for an architect to draw plans, they should factor the below elements into the quote. However, you should clarify what’s included in their basic drawing plans to ensure it covers your needs.
Site plans, floor plans, and roof plans
Exterior elevations from each side of the structure
Basement or foundation plans, including footings and bearing walls
Section drawings showing cross-section views of the structure
The cost for an architect to draw plans is often high because they’ve got the know-how in code compliance and project management. However, not all projects require that level of skill. Knowing when you truly need an architect is the key to avoiding unnecessary expenses.
Is the cost to have an architect draw plans worth it?
Whether you need an architect depends on the project scope and local building codes and regulations.
When to hire an architect
Work with an architect if your project involves:
Major structural changes to the building’s foundation, rooflines, and walls.
Legal and regulatory compliance, meaning certified construction documents (signed and sealed by an architect or an engineer) are required.
Large-scale projects, like custom homes, multi-story buildings, and high-end structures.
When not to hire an architect
You can save yourself the cost of having an architect draw up plans if your project only includes:
Minor cosmetic updates and simple renovations, like painting, flooring, replacing fixtures, if there are no changes on the building’s foundation.
Straightforward construction and DIY projects, such as decking and adding fences.
Partial plans, like a simple site plan or subset of the construction drawings.
Remember to always verify with the local building department when making this decision.
How to obtain construction plans without an architect
If you’ve decided that the cost of having an architect draw house plans is too high, here are other ways to get construction plans:
Work with other construction professionals
Structural engineers and draftspersons also create construction plans, usually at a lower cost than architects. However, their hourly fees might also add up if the project takes longer than expected.
DIY
Using AutoCAD, SketchUP, or Adobe Illustrator to draw your own site plan is another budget-friendly way to obtain plans. However, getting measurements right and ensuring everything complies with building codes can be tricky without professional experience.
Rely on stock plans
Most online platforms or municipalities offer stock plans at a low price. The catch is these might not meet local codes or be the best fit for your site conditions, so consultation with a professional is still a good idea.
Find an online drafting partner
Online drafting companies, like MySitePlan, offer professional grade non-certified site plan drawings at more affordable rates than construction professionals. While these plans aren’t as detailed as an architect’s, they’re a solid choice for small- to medium-scale projects because they are more reliable than DIY and more customizable than stock plans.
Get affordable and reliable site plans with MySitePlan
Save time and money on your construction drawings with MySitePlan. Our team of Drafterra-certified drafters can deliver 100% compliant site plans and construction drawings in under 24 hours.
Browse our site plan packages and other services to see how we can help.
Plan drawing FAQs
How long do architects take to draw plans?
Smaller projects usually take a few weeks, while larger projects take several months.
Do you need an architect for a remodel?
You need an architect for remodels with significant structural changes, while simple remodels and cosmetic updates won’t require their expertise.
Can an architect draw a site plan?
Yes, architects can draw a site plan, but usually as part of their design services, so it can get a bit costly.
Can I use non-certified site plans to obtain building permits?
Yes, you can use non-certified site plans for permitting if the building department allows it. It’s always best to ask them directly.
This article was originally published on December 12, 2024. It was updated on March 31, 2025.
