Question 1

Why do I need plans for my project?

Accepted Answer

Plans aren't just a formality — they're a requirement. You'll need a full set of plans to get your permit and legally commence your project. Permits protect your investment and your property value. Unpermitted work can lead to fines, failed inspections, or even issues with refinancing or selling. Our plan sets include everything you need for smooth approvals and construction — framing, foundation, structural calculations, and more.

Question 2

How long does the design process take?

Accepted Answer

Most design projects take about 2–4 months from the initial consultation to the final plan set. Your timeline will depend on the complexity of the project and how quickly we receive your feedback. After the design kick-off, we typically deliver your first concept within 10–15 business days.

Question 3

What factors influence the cost of design?

Accepted Answer

A few key factors influence the total cost of your plans — like the size of the project, number of stories, site conditions, and overall design complexity. Local permitting requirements can also impact the scope. For an instant estimate on residential projects, visit our pricing tool at instant.quickenplans.com.

Question 4

What's included in the plans?

Accepted Answer

We coordinate production of a full set of construction-ready documents. In general, this includes: Site Plan, Floor Plan, Elevations, Cross Sections, Roof Plan, Basic MEP Layout, Construction Details and Schedules, Structural Drawings & Calculations (prepared by and under responsible charge of a licensed engineer), and Energy Report (when required). These are the documents typically needed to get your permit and start building.

Question 5

Will I need anything else for a permit?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, our plans cover all core requirements. That said, some properties may require additional site studies like boundary surveys, geotechnical reports, or arborist evaluations. Your local jurisdiction will determine what's needed. Also, note that our pricing does not include city permitting fees or third-party study costs. Please consult with local permitting authorities first.

Question 6

Can I request design changes after the first concept?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely! Your input is a key part of the process. We'll review your feedback after the first concept and refine the design until it aligns with your vision and meets code requirements.

Question 7

Can you help me find a contractor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we're happy to connect you with reputable contractors who serve your area. Many of our clients are professional builders, and we're always glad to make introductions. While we don't provide construction services ourselves, we can help you review contractor quotes to make sure the scope is complete.

Question 8

Will you work with my contractor during the project?

Accepted Answer

Definitely! In fact, we encourage involving your contractor early — especially during the Concept Design phase. Their feedback helps ensure the design is buildable, efficient, and budget-conscious. We're always available to support them with questions about the plans.

Question 9

My previous designer dropped the ball — can you take over?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, we hear this a lot. Many property owners come to us after a vendor abandoned the project mid-way. While every situation is different, we'll do our best to step in and get things back on track. Send us what you have so far, and we'll take it from there. A signed release form is required.

Question 10

Do you offer special terms for contractors or design pros?

Accepted Answer

We sure do. If you're a contractor looking to offer design-build services — or you're just tired of unreliable design vendors — we can help. We offer special rates and white-label services to Pro clients. We also support design professionals with CAD production, As-Builts, 3D modeling, and engineering coordination.

Question 11

What if the city requires changes after plan submittal?

Accepted Answer

If your city plan reviewer requests revisions that are within the original design scope, we'll address them at no extra cost. If the revisions go beyond the original scope or require additional design or engineering coordination, we'll still handle it — at a discounted rate.

Question 12

Can you help with design ideas or layout options before I commit?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. If you're still figuring out what would work best for your space, we're happy to provide layout suggestions or talk through design options during your free consultation.

Question 13

Can I build an ADU on my property?

Accepted Answer

Most single-family lots in California now allow at least one ADU by right, thanks to recent state law. Setback requirements, lot coverage limits, and utility connections vary by city. During your free consultation, we'll review your parcel and tell you exactly what's possible.

Question 14

What's the difference between a Detached ADU, Attached ADU, and JADU?

Accepted Answer

A Detached ADU is a fully separate structure on your lot. An Attached ADU shares a wall with the main home. A JADU (Junior ADU) is converted from existing interior space and is capped at 500 sq ft. Each has different permit pathways and design constraints — we'll help you choose the right type for your goals.

Question 15

Do I need owner-occupancy to build an ADU?

Accepted Answer

California removed the owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs through 2025. As of now, you do not need to live on the property to build or rent an ADU. We recommend confirming the current rules with your city, as local ordinances can vary.

Question 16

What happens after I place my order online?

Accepted Answer

Within one business day, a member of our team will reach out to schedule your design kickoff call. We'll review your project goals, site conditions, and any design preferences. From there, we get to work on your first concept.

Question 17

Do I need to be present for site visits?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. For most projects, we can work from existing records, satellite imagery, and photos you provide. If a site visit is needed — for example, for a 3D scan or complex site conditions — we'll coordinate a convenient time with you.

Question 18

What is a plan review response, and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

After you submit your plans to the city, a plan reviewer may issue a correction list. We address all plan review comments that fall within the original design scope at no extra charge — this is part of our standard service. Our Permitting Agent add-on is a separate, optional service where our team acts as your authorized representative: we submit your plans directly to the building department and handle all communication with the plan reviewer through to approval.

Question 19

Can you submit the permit application for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes — through our Permitting Agent add-on. Most jurisdictions require the permit applicant to be the property owner or a licensed contractor, so direct submission is typically not included in the base service. With the Permitting Agent add-on, our team acts as your authorized representative, submitting your plans and managing all communication with the building department on your behalf, for a fee.

Question 20

What if my project requires a variance or special approval?

Accepted Answer

Some projects require discretionary approvals — such as a variance, design review, or HOA sign-off — before or alongside the building permit. If the city or county requests it, we can help you prepare the necessary materials and navigate the process.

Question 21

How long does permitting take?

Accepted Answer

Permit timelines vary significantly by jurisdiction. Simple projects in some cities can be approved in 2–4 weeks; others may take 3–6 months. We'll give you a realistic timeline estimate based on your city and project type during your consultation.

Question 22

What is an as-built plan, and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An as-built plan documents the existing conditions of a building as it was actually constructed — not as originally designed. You'll typically need as-builts for renovation permits, tenant improvements, insurance claims, or real estate transactions. We capture existing conditions using 3D laser scanning for maximum accuracy.

Question 23

Can you support tenant improvement (TI) projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work with property managers, landlords, and commercial tenants on TI projects of all sizes — from single-suite reconfigurations to full-floor buildouts. We handle design, engineering coordination, and permit documentation.

Question 24

Do you provide structural engineering for commercial projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our licensed structural engineers provide calculations, structural drawings, and stamped plan sets for commercial new construction, retrofits, and tenant improvements. Engineering is coordinated directly by our team — you don't need to hire a separate engineer.

Question 25

Are your engineers licensed in California?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All structural engineering work is performed by or under the responsible charge of licensed California Professional Engineers (PE). Our plan sets include the engineer's stamp and wet signature as required by the jurisdiction.

Question 26

What if I'm not happy with the design?

Accepted Answer

We work collaboratively and won't move forward without your sign-off at each milestone. If the design isn't meeting your expectations, we'll revise it. Our goal is a plan set you're genuinely excited about — not just one that passes plan check.

Frequently Asked Questions