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 Manchester?
In Manchester, 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 North West, where labour and materials are typically about 6% 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:
- Number of design options
- Measured survey complexity
- Planning or building regulations stage
- Structural engineer’s fees
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Planning and building regulations in Manchester
Before anything is built in Manchester, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
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:
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- 3D views on request
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Party wall drawings where needed
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
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 Manchester
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Our Manchester coverage includes postcode districts M1, M2, M3 and M4, and we also work in nearby places such as Salford, Failsworth and Droylsden.
How it works
- 01
Measured survey
We visit and measure the house so the drawings start from accurate information.
- 02
Concept design
Options for layout and appearance, revised until you are happy.
- 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 Manchester
Do you prepare structural calculations?
We coordinate a chartered structural engineer for calculations and beam designs.
What are building regulations drawings?
More detailed drawings and specifications showing structure, insulation, fire safety, drainage and ventilation, used for building control approval and pricing.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Manchester?
In Manchester, 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 Manchester?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Manchester, including postcodes M1, M2, M3 and M4. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.