“What’s included in the building plans package?”

• Floor & roof plans

• Building sections

• Exterior building elevations

• Interior elevations

• Architectural details

• Window and door schedules

• Electrical plans

“How long does it take for building plans to arrive?”

 If there are no changes, 4-6 weeks.

“Do I need a structural engineer?”

 Yes.  Any structure built in Canada, or the US intended for human habitation requires a structural engineer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.

“Do you know a structural engineer licensed to work in my area?”

Our consulting structural engineer is licensed in 45 US states and 6 Canadian provinces.

“Can I make design changes?”

Yes.  Minor changes like moving, adding or removing windows or doors can be made.  Design and drafting time required to execute changes will be billed on an hourly basis.

“Can I add a basement?”

Yes.  All 2-story and some of our 1-story cottages can accommodate basements. Design and drafting time required to execute changes will be billed on an hourly basis.

“Which foundation system right for my location?”

 Your local building department will have information regarding frost depth and prescribed soil bearing pressure.  In some cases, a site-specific soils report may be required to determine the best approach. 

“Is it possible to flip a plan?”

Yes.  In instances where we’ve already prepared reverse plans, there is no fee. If not, design and drafting time required to execute changes will be billed on an hourly basis.

“Do I need a building permit?”

Yes.  Any structure built in Canada, or the US intended for human habitation requires a building permit.

“Can I return building plans if I discover I can’t build or decide not to build?”

Unfortunately, not. We recommend working with your local building department to determine if your property can accommodate the structures you’d like to build prior to submitting an order.