How Detailed Are Your Architectural Drawings for Permits or Contractors?

[Aisha Umar]

Hey BP community,

I’ve been wondering how other investors approach architectural drawings, especially now that many cities are tightening up permit requirements and inspections.

For those working on flips, ADUs, or additions:

• Are you submitting full architectural drawing sets from the beginning?

• Or do you keep it minimal until the city asks for more detail?

• Do your contractors prefer detailed drawings, or do they usually “figure it out” on site?

I’m in the design world myself and have seen a mix of strategies  some investors go all in upfront with full sets, while others take a phased or “just enough” approach depending on the market.

Would love to hear how you all are handling it in 2025  what’s working, what’s causing delays, and whether cities are asking for more than they used to.

Looking forward to learning from everyone’s experience!