Construction Blueprints - Architectural Plans

[Craig Clark]

Hi BP, not sure if this is the right forum for the post; but, forgive me if not. We have project were we are looking to convert the covered patio in the backyard to interior living space, adding an addition 150-200 sq. ft. to the interior. We would be removing apportion of the existing exterior wall leading to the patio and building up a new wall around the patio and finishing off the interior to match the existing interior.  We will not be adding anything to the additional space other than drywall, tile, lighting, and an exit door to the backyard.  

In order for us to do this, the city (Dallas, Texas area) requires a full set of blueprints/architectural drawings and this is our first time doing an addition.  We received a quote for $1100 and that just seems like a lot of money to put a box on a piece paper.   I attached a few pictures showing the existing layout vs what we are looking to do. 

Does this seem like a normal quote for what we are looking to accomplish? 

Do you guys have any other suggestions for us other than skipping the permitting - the HOA here is a pain in the *** and they check everything?

[Scott E.]

I've done this a couple of times. Short answer to your question is yes, $1100 for a draftsman or an architect to draw this up is normal and fair. Especially if that price includes the structural engineer getting involved for removing that portion of the exterior wall.

You're not paying them to just put a box on a piece of paper. You're paying them because they have the education and years of experience to put a box on a piece of paper.