Architectural Drawings

We are able to prepare architectural drawings for a range of purposes and on an ad hoc basis whether that be for an application which the client wishes to submit and oversee themselves or occasional one-off drawings such as lease plans or setting out drawings and electrical and lighting layouts as may be required when a project is on site.

All our drawings are made available in .pdf format and printed copies with larger print runs available upon request.

 

Our CAD Data Policy

We would like to clear up potential misunderstandings about the use and release of CAD data (.dwg, .dxf, etc) as there are unfortunately misconceptions that can make it look like an organisation is being unhelpful when they do not release CAD data.

Supplying clients with our working CAD files is not part of the service we offer unless specified in our estimate and agreed before we start working on the project. We will supply all digital data in .pdf format.

 

Why we work this way

There are three main reasons why we work this way:

1.    Liability

2.    Cost to the Client

3.    Loss of future income

If the supply, and conditions for supply of CAD data is not agreed before we start work on a project, we will set up our CAD drawings using our usual in house processes, with our own in file ”tools”. To then send this data out to anyone not familiar with our processes or tools, can make the CAD data unreadable and easily misinterpreted. This then can lead to errors on site and in manufacture for which our insurance does not provide cover.

Is it not just simply a case of sending over a CAD version of the PDF files?

In short, no. The .pdf files are a snapshot of the CAD data at a particular time meaning that a .pdf file does not exist as a CAD file. This procedure involving the issue of .pdf files controls the data so the .pdf file becomes a “controlled” document that is not editable.  If editable CAD data were to be released without any control measures or agreement of use in place, there is the potential for misuse. 

 

How bad can it be?

The CAD data could be used by the client or 3rd parties to design measured installation items, ie. roofs, windows, doors, kitchens, bespoke furniture and carpets, only to find that when installing they do not fit, then the author of the file can become liable for the cost to rectify. On existing buildings it is particularly important to note that we provide as accurate a survey as possible without destruction of materials, walls etc., so our survey is sufficient for the services estimated. When we issue .pdf files, they have the disclaimer that all sizes must be ”site measured” to confirm accuracy, before manufacture of any items or building work commences. This disclaimer is then a way of ensuring that proper care is taken for accuracy of construction and any nuances that could not be picked up during the survey do not cause problems.

 

I know some people that WILL supply CAD data

If an architectural practice supplies a CAD file for a project without stating conditions for usage it in their contract/ estimate, then they are in danger of invalidating their Professional Indemnity ("PI") insurance. Most insurance companies require specific insurance to allow for supply of CAD data as it is not a standard allowance in most PI policies. This can be why a third party “survey” company may be employed to produce a CAD survey as in all likelihood they would have this specific insurance.

 

Will you ever supply CAD data?

Providing the supply of CAD data is agreed before we start work on a project we will then set up the file differently and agree beforehand with all parties who will be involved how we will coordinate document/ data control. This way of working takes more time and so adds more cost for the client.

 

I understand, but you’ve already given me .pdfs so does that mean that I can’t get the CAD data now?

It is possible to send it out, however there are three things we need to do:

1.    We need to modify the file for usage and this takes time, so there would be a charge for this time.

2.    We may lose future work if we are mid-way through a project, therefore a calculation for loss of earnings would be carried out and a charge would be raised for this.

3.    A disclaimer would be sent to you for usage of the data and it would need to be agreed to by you prior to the data being sent out.

Subject to the charges being paid in full and disclaimer agreed to, it can be possible for us to release the data.