How Much Does a Draftsman Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

The average cost to hire a draftsman is $1,731, with most projects ranging from $820 to $2,706. Prices can range from as low as $300 for simple projects to over $5,000 for complex or custom home plans. Draftsmen may charge per hour, per square foot, or per project, depending on your needs.

Drafting is a critical first step for both new builds and remodels. Understanding costs helps you plan and avoid surprises—especially since pricing structures and deliverables can vary widely.

Draftsman Service Cost Factors

The cost to hire a draftsman depends on several key factors, each of which can significantly impact your final bill. Let’s take a closer look at what drives these expenses.

Service Type

Draftsmen offer a range of services, from basic open floor plans for residential remodels to full construction documents for new custom homes. Costs vary depending on the scope and complexity of your project. For example, new home plans or major additions cost more than interior remodels, while specialty projects with unique features may require advanced skills and additional time.

Plans for remodels or additions are less expensive than full custom new builds. Standard or semi-custom plans cost less than fully custom designs, and projects with unusual layouts or challenging sites may require extra time and expertise.

Project Size

The size of your project is a primary cost driver. Draftsmen often charge by the square foot, with larger homes or additions requiring more time and detail. For residential projects, you can expect to pay between $0.50 and $2.50 per square foot for drafting services.

A small remodel or addition may cost less, while a large, multi-level home will increase your investment. The number of rooms and level of detail required for each space can also affect the total.

Deliverables

The format and quality of your deliverables can also influence how much a draftsman costs. Most homeowners receive digital CAD files, but some projects need high-quality prints, 3D models, or multiple sets of paper blueprints

Costs increase if you request multiple plan sets, physical models, or specialty materials for presentations or permitting.

Labor

Labor is a significant portion of drafting costs. Draftsmen charge between $100 and $150 per hour or offer flat rates for entire projects. This fee covers consultations, design meetings, revisions, and sometimes site visits. Rates can vary by location, with urban markets or highly experienced draftsmen charging more.

Independent draftsmen may offer lower rates than drafting firms, but firms often provide broader services. Expedited or rush jobs may include premium fees, reflecting the need for overtime work or prioritization.

Prep

Preparation costs are sometimes separate from the main drafting fee. This includes initial consultations, on-site measurements, or reviewing existing home plans. Some draftsmen charge $100 to $300 for site visits or surveys, especially if travel is required. If you do not have digital records of your current home, expect additional fees for scanning or recreating plans.

Gathering code or zoning information before drafting begins may also add to your upfront costs, especially in areas with complex permitting requirements.

Tipping

Tipping draftsmen is not standard practice in the industry. Most professionals do not expect tips, as their pricing reflects the full value of their services. If you want to show appreciation, consider writing a positive review or referring others to their business.

Additional Cost Factors

Several other elements can impact how much does a draftsman cost:

• Fees for permit-ready drawings or code compliance documentation

• Coordination with engineers or architects for structural or system integration

• Charges for multiple revisions or plan updates beyond the included amount

• Post-construction plan updates or as-built drawings

• Add-ons such as 3D renderings, energy modeling, or specialty design features

• Project management or contractor coordination fees

These extras can add hundreds or thousands of dollars to your total, so clarify all potential fees in advance.

Ongoing Costs

Beyond the initial drafting fee, you may encounter ongoing costs depending on your project’s needs and future changes. These expenses cover updates, storage, corrections, and liability insurance.

Updates

Plans sometimes require updates after the initial project is complete. For example, if local building codes change, or if you want to remodel again in the future, you’ll need to revise your drawings. Minor updates may cost $100 to $500, while major revisions can run $500 to $2,000 or more. It’s wise to keep your plans up to date to ease future renovations or additions.

Storage

Storing digital plans or maintaining access to files can involve small recurring fees, especially if your draftsman uses proprietary platforms. Additional paper copies or digital reprints also come with extra charges—expect $25 to $100 per set. Some CAD formats or 3D files require software subscriptions or licensing fees, though this is rare for most residential clients.

Corrections

If errors or omissions are found in your original plans, you may need redrafting or corrections. Fees for these services often depend on the complexity and the stage at which they’re discovered. Redrawing a plan to address construction changes or meet permitting authority requirements can cost $250 to $1,500. Addressing these issues early can help you avoid costly construction delays.

Insurance

Draftsmen sometimes carry professional liability insurance, and the cost may be reflected in their fees. For major remodels or additions, your homeowner’s insurance provider might require official drafted plans before extending or updating your policy. Insuring plans or documents during construction is not common but could be necessary for large or high-value projects.

DIY Drafting vs. Hiring a Pro

Some homeowners consider creating their own plans using drafting software, but there are important differences in cost, effort, and outcome.

DIY drafting is less expensive upfront. Software packages range from $100 to $500, but you’ll also need a capable computer, training, and possibly a printer for large-format plans. Expect to invest several hours—sometimes weeks—learning the software and refining your drawings.

However, DIY drafting has risks. Inaccurate or incomplete plans can lead to permit rejections, construction errors, or code violations. Professional draftsmen bring expertise in local codes and construction standards, reducing the chance of costly mistakes. Their turnaround time is also faster; what might take you weeks could take a pro just a few days.

DIY drafting is only feasible for very simple projects, such as small interior remodels or basic deck plans. For anything involving structural changes, new construction, or permitting, hiring a local CAD drafter pro is the safest and most reliable choice. While DIY may save money initially, hidden costs like rework, delays, or permit denials can quickly outweigh any savings.

Common Drafting Add-Ons

Many homeowners need additional drafting services beyond the basics. Common add-ons and their typical costs include:

• 3D renderings or visualizations: $300 to $1,000 per project

• Extra plan sets or copies: $25 to $100 each

• Site visits or on-site measurements: $100 to $300 per visit

• Coordination with engineers or architects: $500 to $2,000 depending on scope

• Energy efficiency or green building modeling: $200 to $800

• Expedited/rush drafting services: 20% to 50% surcharge

• Permit application assistance: $200 to $500

• As-built or post-construction plan updates: $250 to $1,500

Discuss your needs with your draftsman upfront to get an accurate estimate for these extras.

Tips to Reduce Cost While Hiring a Draftsman

You can take several steps to keep your drafting costs manageable:

• Obtain multiple quotes from certified draftsmen to compare pricing and services.

• Clearly define your project scope to avoid costly revisions.

• Make sure of standard or semi-customizable plans when possible to reduce overall project costs.

• Provide accurate site measurements and documentation upfront.

• Bundle your drafting project with other remodeling services to take advantage of package discounts.

• Consider digital-only deliverables to save on printing costs.

A little planning can help you avoid unnecessary fees and ensure a smooth drafting process

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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