Frequently Asked Questions

What is Building Code Qualified?
What is included in a set of drawings?
What is Included in the Square Footage?
Are You Licensed Architects?
Why are HVAC, electrical and plumbing drawings not provided?

 

What is Building Code Qualified?

On January 2003, the Building Code Statute Law Amendment Act, 2002 was proclaimed and Ontario Regulation 305/03 was filed to implement changes to the Building Code Act, 1992 and Building Code. Among the changes is the introductory qualification requirements for individual building officials, designers and staff of registered code agencies. In order to be qualified, building practitioners must successfully complete the Ministry examination program, which requires that individuals pass examinations that test their knowledge of the legal and technical requirements of the Building Code related to their area of practice. They must also file their qualification information with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. Registration with the Ministry requires that certain design firms and registered code agencies carry professional insurance.

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What is included in a set of drawings?

Each set of plans come with the following:

Minimum 4 Elevations: Detailed drawings showing the heights and materials used. Shows how the structure should look upon completion.

Floor Plans: Fully detailed drawings of each level of the structure, showing dimensions of rooms, location of walls, openings, stairs, layout of kitchen and bathrooms. Also, shows structural components for point loads, beams, headers, floor joists, and roof structures.

Foundation Plan: Fully detailed drawing showing dimensions, location of walls, openings, stairs. Structural components required to support floor above. Either full basement, crawl space, or slab on grade, whichever is required for your project.

Cross Section(s), Details, Stair Section: These construction drawings will show you sections and details of the structure. Cross sections are a full cut-through of the structure, whereas, details are specific details of typical areas. These drawings also show heights and materials, which all conform with up to date regulations and local building codes.

Optional Features – Depending on complexity of the project and/or clients request.

Roof Plan: Drawing showing the layout and style of the roof, also showing direction of slope and roof pitches.

Site Plan: Some municipalities may require for a site plan to be done. This drawing shows the perimeter of the lot and location of the future structure on that lot.

Interior Elevations and/or 3Ds: These drawings show what an area of the structure should look like or the client’s goal for those areas. Common areas to be done are the bathrooms and kitchen. More often for client visual.

Exterior 3Ds and/or Renderings: These drawings show real life detail, using photo realistic images of materials. Helps clients visualize styles and colours to use on their structure.

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What is Included in the Square Footage?

The square footage is all areas considered as “living space.” Includes areas such as rooms, closets, halls, and wall; but does not include unfinished basements, garages, or bonus rooms.

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Are You Licensed Architects?

No, we are Qualified Designers and Architectural Technologists certified by the Ministry of Housing.

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Why are HVAC, electrical and plumbing drawings not provided?

Due to regional variations, local codes, and methods of installation, it is difficult to include such drawings with your sets. These details and specifications are easily obtained from your Contractor, Builder, and/or local suppliers.

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