We approached a draftsman (recommended by our builder) to give us an estimate for our renovations. I was pretty surprised at the total, mostly because it included things I did not know where necessary. For instance, this is a 60 year old ex-housing commission house and it is beyond me how it can even come close to a 6-star energy rating without spending telephone numbers. Is anyone able to let me know your opinion of the following, or if such things are actually required by BCA, especially the lighting calculation.



  • Initial meeting, site measure and draft existing $320.00 (we already have an accurate drawing for which we would be happy to take responsibility, and can provide .dwg file)
  • Sketch drawings $560.00 (I have done ten or 12 sketches already)
  • Working Drawings $840.00
  • 6 Star Energy rating $250.00
  • Lighting calculations???? $150.00
  • Title Search $30.00 I already have access to a copy of the title...why would he need a new one?



Of course I'll speak with him to ask questions about these inclusions. Thanks for any input.

Cecile and Ted (Moondog)


Read the full thread at RenovateForum.com...