How Long Do Residential Drafting Services Take?
Industry Insights
•
5 min
Team Evolution
Mar 28, 2025
If you’re planning a remodel, addition, or new home and searching “how long do drafting services take” or “timeline for house plans,” you’re likely trying to coordinate something important — a contractor schedule, a permit submission, or even financing.
The short answer?
Most residential drafting projects take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on scope and complexity.
Now let’s break that down in a practical way so you can plan confidently.
Typical Drafting Timeline by Project Type
While every project is different, here’s a general guideline:
Small Remodel (Kitchen, Bathroom, Interior Layout Changes)
3+ weeks
These projects typically involve updating floor plans and preparing permit-ready drawings without major structural redesign.
Basement Finish or Garage Conversion
4+ weeks
This may include:
Existing condition review
Updated layouts
Elevations (if required)
Permit documentation
Home Addition
4–6 weeks
Additions often require:
Exterior elevations
Structural coordination
More detailed plan sets
New Custom Home
4–12+ weeks
New builds require the most comprehensive drafting package and coordination.
What Affects the Timeline?
Several factors influence how quickly drafting services can be completed:
1. Project Complexity
The more structural changes, custom layouts, or detailed design elements involved, the longer the process may take.
2. Client Revisions
Revisions are a normal part of the process. Clear communication and timely feedback help keep projects moving efficiently.
3. Existing Documentation
If you already have accurate as-built drawings, the process moves faster.
If measurements or site verification are required, that adds time.
4. Permit Requirements
Some jurisdictions require additional documentation or specific formatting.
Why Rushing Drawings Isn’t a Good Idea
It’s understandable to want plans completed quickly — especially if a contractor is ready to start.
However, drafting is the foundation of your build.
Accurate, well-prepared drawings:
Prevent construction delays
Reduce costly change orders
Improve contractor clarity
Increase permit approval efficiency
A rushed plan set often leads to problems later.
How Evolution Drafting Approaches Turnaround Time
At Evolution Drafting, our goal is to balance speed with precision.
For most residential projects:
Initial drafts are typically delivered within 4–6 weeks
Revisions are handled promptly
Final permit-ready sets follow once approvals are aligned
We communicate timelines clearly at the beginning of every project so expectations stay aligned.
How to Keep Your Project Moving
If you’re preparing to hire drafting services, you can help speed up the process by:
Knowing your approximate square footage
Having a clear idea of your layout goals
Providing existing plans (if available)
Responding quickly to revision requests
The smoother the communication, the faster the timeline.
Planning Ahead
If you’re coordinating with a contractor or aiming for a specific construction start date, it’s wise to begin drafting services several weeks in advance of permit submission.
Residential drafting isn’t something you want to treat as a last-minute step — it sets the tone for your entire project.
If you’re ready to move forward and want a realistic timeline for your remodel, addition, or new home, reach out for a quote and we’ll outline exactly what you can expect based on your project scope.
