What is a set of architectural drawings?

Architectural design turns your ideas into drawings that a council and a builder can work from. It starts with a measured survey of the house, then design options, planning drawings and, once approved, detailed building regulations drawings and specifications.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Hertford?
In Hertford, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across the East of England are typically 6% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Hertford. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,750 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,750–£6,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Number of design options
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Measured survey complexity
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Hertford
Here is how the rules work for a set of architectural drawings in England. In England drawings are prepared to suit the local planning authority’s validation list and, later, building control.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical set of architectural drawings we handle:
- 3D views on request
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Measured survey of the existing house
How long does it take?
Allow 2 to 6 weeks for drawings, depending on complexity. If the drawings are for a planning application, add the council’s decision period once they are submitted.
Building in Hertford
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
We work across Hertford and neighbouring areas such as Hoddesdon, Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield. Postcodes we cover in Hertford include SG13.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, talk through what you want and record the existing building.
- 02
Design options
Sketch layouts to agree the approach before detailed drawing starts.
- 03
Drawings and documents
The drawings and forms the council and building control need.
- 04
Approval
We follow the application through to a decision and pass on the approved drawings.
Questions about architectural drawings in Hertford
Do I need an architect?
Not necessarily. For extensions and lofts, an architectural technician’s drawings are common. For complex or sensitive sites, an architect may be better.
What drawings are needed for planning?
Usually existing and proposed floor plans and elevations, a block plan and a location plan. Some councils need more.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Hertford?
In Hertford, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,750 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you prepare architectural drawings in Hertford?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Hertford, including postcodes SG13. Every project starts with a free home visit.
