Architectural plans for ductwork

[Danielle Thompson]

We are working on legalizing our duplex. We are firerating ceilings and separating all utilities. The city is asking for an architectural design plan that includes before and after with ductwork included. We’d prefer not to hire it out and save on cost. Has anyone had luck drawing up their own plans? What design software/app did you use? any other suggestions in working with the city?

[David Sisson]

I've had a lot of luck drawing my own plans. I use Autodesk REVIT. I also make a lot of money each year drawing plans for people who tried to DIY it the first time. 

Honestly, if you want to DIY your plans, just draw on paper. The learning curve is much less and if you can't draw it on paper, you won't be able to do it on any sort of software either. 

But my recommendation is to hire a local architect who works with small projects and investors. They will know the tricks of working with the city and also what the plan reviewer will be looking for. It 's a cost, but will save you in time and also you won't have to deal with building something incorrectly and having to remove it. 

"If you think architecture is expensive, just try construction".