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 Leicestershire?
In Leicestershire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 for planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East Midlands, where labour and materials are typically about 5% below average. Council application fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Planning and building regulations drawings for a typical extension | £1,500–£4,250 |
| Larger or more complex projects | £4,250–£5,250 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Measured survey complexity
- Number of design options
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Planning and building regulations in Leicestershire
The approval route for Leicestershire is set by planning law in England. In England drawings are prepared to suit the local planning authority’s validation list and, later, building control.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Design options and sketch layouts
- Measured survey of the existing house
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Party wall drawings where needed
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 Leicestershire
The East Midlands has a mix of red-brick terraces, inter-war semis and newer estates, so rear extensions and garage conversions are common projects.
Towns we cover in Leicestershire include Leicester, Loughborough, Hinckley, Coalville, Wigston Magna and Melton Mowbray.
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
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Leicestershire
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.
Can I use the drawings with another builder?
Yes. Drawings you pay for are yours to use for the project.
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 Leicestershire?
In Leicestershire, a set of architectural drawings typically costs £1,500–£4,250 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 Leicestershire?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Leicestershire, including postcodes CV13, CV9, DE12, DE73 and DE74. Every project starts with a free home visit.
