5 common drafting mistakes to avoid before starting your plans

Written By Timea Apai

Save time, money, and stress by avoiding these common drafting pitfalls in Perth home projects

If you’re planning a new build, extension, or renovation in Perth, getting the drafting right from the start is key. Drafting plans aren’t just about drawings — they need to suit your budget, meet council rules, and work for your block. In this guide, we’ll cover 5 common drafting mistakes Perth homeowners should avoid before starting their plans.

1. Not Having a Clear Brief
One of the biggest mistakes is starting the process without knowing what you want.

  • Do you need more bedrooms, or is it about open-plan living?

  • Is your main goal more space, better flow, or adding value to sell?

The clearer your goals, the easier it is for a drafter to design something that works — and the fewer expensive redraws you’ll need later.

2. Forgetting About Your Budget
It’s easy to get carried away with design ideas. But if you don’t set a budget early, you could end up with plans you can’t actually afford to build.

  • Be honest about your budget with your drafter.

  • Keep in mind that design choices affect build costs (for example, double-storey is usually more expensive than single-storey).

A good drafter will help you design within your means.

3. Ignoring Council Rules
Each Perth council has different rules about building heights, setbacks, and extensions. Many homeowners don’t check these until it’s too late.

  • Councils like Joondalup or Wanneroo may require extra drawings, shadow diagrams, or engineering details.

  • If you don’t plan for this, you risk delays or rejection.

Working with a local drafter who knows the council process can save weeks of frustration.

4. Overlooking the Site Conditions
Every block is different. Slope, soil type, and orientation to the sun all affect your design. Ignoring these early can lead to costly surprises.

  • A steep block may need retaining walls.

  • A west-facing backyard might need shading solutions.

  • Sandy soil may require specific footing designs.

Considering the site from the start means fewer changes later.

5. Choosing the Wrong Professional
Some people skip drafting and go straight to a builder, only to find they need proper plans later. Others hire someone without local knowledge and end up with plans that don’t suit Perth conditions or approvals.

Always choose a drafter who:

  • Understands WA building codes

  • Has local council experience

  • Can guide you through the approval process

Starting your project the right way saves you time, money, and stress. With a clear brief, realistic budget, and the right local drafter, you’ll avoid the common mistakes and set yourself up for a smoother building journey.

At Calibre Design & Drafting, we help Perth homeowners turn their ideas into practical, council-ready plans.
Get in touch with us to discuss your design ideas>

Timea Apai