From concept draft to a real build

The steps between a planning draft and a finished thing, and who does each one.

1. Settle the concept

Use the draft to decide size, features and budget. Ask for changes until it matches what you want.

2. Check it with a professional

Take the printed draft to the right professional (see Who to involve in your draft). They'll tell you what must change.

3. Get the real plans made

For anything with safety risk, a qualified person turns the concept into build plans, calculations and drawings the authorities accept.

4. Get quotes

Use the parts list to ask suppliers and builders for real prices. Replace the ranges with quotes.

5. Permits before work

Apply for the permits the plans need before building starts.

6. Build, inspect, test

Build in the phases from your draft, with inspections where required, and test before real use.

Concept drafts are for planning, budgeting and talking to professionals. They are not engineering or build plans. Have a qualified professional check any design before you build or use it.