Software to save on architect fees?

Little_Missy

Hi all,

Been looking into buying some software to create detailed building reg plans, instead of paying the astronomical fees that an architect has quoted me :shocked:

Does anybody have any suggestions? I've seen a few that are American apparently and people have left reviews saying that the software is useless for people building in the UK, as it doesn't provide things such as walls with the required cavity.

I'm not just looking to purchase the cheapest; I want the best software for the job, without paying over the odds for something that isn't any better then something else that does the same job.

Thanks in advance!

System

do you know how to draw plans and details for building reg approval?
And can you specify everything needed to comply?
There is a lot more than meets the eye for building regs...

I would suggest a good old pen and paper approach as it will save trying to learn any new software if it just for one application.

What platform are you using?
AutoCad is the standard but very expensive one, you might be able to use the free trial version tho.
SketchUp is free but not that great for detailed drawings
Other ones like archi-cad, turbocad, fastCad, powercadd are all cheaper than autocad but still fairly expensive for a one use thing.

Maybe look for an architectural designer/technologist that works locally instead

fitzpm01

Hi, I looked into planning software a while ago and after a lot of research I came to the conclusion that 3D Home Design by Livecad was the best value for money. I've used it a fair bit and I was happy with the results in terms of being able to visualise how things will look when the work is finished.
However, you MUST realise that this is NOT what you're paying an architect for. An architect should look at what you want to achieve (e.g. more storage space) and suggest a few alternatives (e.g. build an extension, floor the loft), with pros and cons for each. They should be able to tell you ALL the applicable regulations relating to the work (BOTH planning permission AND building regulations, as a starting point) and should be able to design a piece of work that will comply with all those regulations. This is no small task, have you ever looked at the number of applicable sets of building regulations alone? ISTR there were about 14 separate sets of regulations, I can't remember how many regulations were in each set! Eventually, the architect should get round to drawing some plans and yes, those plans will be the thing you'll get in your hand once you part with your money- but they're not the only thing you pay an architect for!!

ryder72

You can find a draftsman who will produce building reg drawings for a lot less than what an architect might.

However, expect to pay for a specialist who knows what they are talking about.

Its not easy as I can use a CAD package so I can do building regs drawings. What next? Lose the dentist and use some pain killers and a set of pliers to pull teeth?

Little_Missy

Thanks for the replies

I'm familiar with most of building regs and can easily research anything that I'm unsure about or want to confirm to be correct. I'm pretty handy with technical drawings too, but don't really want to start doing it by hand, as I much prefer doing everything on my pc.

I didn't mention in my original post that I require the software to create building reg plans for a couple of small extensions that I plan to build. I don't need the software to be capable of showing me how the extensions will look when finished; just require it to create technical drawings.

I've tried SketchUp and found it to be useless, but I'll take a look at some of the suggestions, thanks.

phill99

Another vote for employing a draftsman. Much cheaper than an architect but with good knowledge of building regs.