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 Rochdale?
In Rochdale, 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). That range is adjusted for the North West, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% below the national 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
- 3D visuals
- Structural engineer’s fees
- Measured survey complexity
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Planning and building regulations in Rochdale
The approval route for Rochdale 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
The work we manage on a set of architectural drawings:
- Structural calculations coordinated
- Tender-ready drawing pack
- Planning drawings: plans, elevations, site and location plans
- Measured survey of the existing house
- 3D views on request
- 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 Rochdale
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Rochdale sits in Greater Manchester, about 10 miles north of Manchester. We cover the whole of Rochdale, including postcodes OL16.
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
Application drawings
Plans, elevations and supporting documents prepared for the council.
- 04
Submission and follow-up
We submit the application and deal with questions from the council or building control.
Questions about architectural drawings in Rochdale
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.
How much does a set of architectural drawings cost in Rochdale?
In Rochdale, 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 Rochdale?
Yes. We prepare architectural drawings across Rochdale, including postcodes OL16. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long do drawings take?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from survey, depending on revisions.
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.
