When planning to build or renovate in Perth, one of the most common questions is:
“Should I hire an architect or a draftsperson?”
Both professionals play key roles in the design process of buildings but they have different qualifications, costs, and scopes of work. Understanding these differences can help you save money, avoid delays, and ensure your project meets both your vision and WA building codes.
In this guide, we’ll explain the key differences between architects and draftspersons in Western Australia, and when you should choose one over the other.
🧱 What Is a Draftsman?
A draftsman (or building designer) is a professional who creates technical drawings and building plans for residential and commercial projects. They’re experts in turning your ideas into council-ready drawings that builders can quote and construct from.
Key responsibilities of a draftsman:
- Designing house plans, extensions, and renovations
- Preparing plans that meet R-Codes and local council rules
- Submitting documents for planning and building approval
- Working with builders, engineers, and surveyors
- Providing accurate 2D/3D layouts and working drawings
At Perth Drafting, this is exactly what we specialise in: fast, affordable, professional building plans for WA homeowners, developers, and builders.
🏛 What Is an Architect?
An architect is a registered professional with a degree in architecture, trained to handle complex design and construction projects. Architects are ideal for large-scale, high-budget, or custom designs where aesthetics, structural innovation, or specialised detailing are a priority.
Architects often:
- Design high-end or complex custom homes
- Handle large commercial or institutional projects
- Manage the full design + project lifecycle
- Charge a percentage of total build cost (often 8–15%)
They’re regulated by the Architects Board of WA and must meet strict education and licensing requirements.
⚖️ Architect vs Draftsman: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Draftsperson | Architect |
|---|---|---|
| Education | TAFE or diploma in building design | University degree in architecture |
| Licensing (WA) | No registration required | Registered with Architects Board WA |
| Cost | $1,500–$7,000+ (fixed price) | 8–15% of construction cost (percentage) |
| Projects | Residential homes, units, renovations | High-end custom builds, commercial sites |
| Council submissions | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Who they work with | Builders, engineers, surveyors | Entire project team |
🏡When Should You Use a Draftsman?
A draftsman is ideal if you:
- Want to build a house, extension, or granny flat in Perth
- Need council-compliant plans without overpaying
- Are working with a tight budget
- Have a builder and just need professional drawings
- Want fast turnaround on floorplans and approvals
💡 Most residential projects in WA don’t need an architect — a good draftsperson can deliver the same result more affordably.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is a draftsman cheaper than an architect in Perth?
Yes. Draftsman generally charge fixed prices, while architects charge a percentage of the build cost, which can get expensive for residential projects.
2. Can a draftsman submit plans to council in WA?
Absolutely. A qualified draftsperson like Perth Drafting can handle all local council submissions, R-Code checks, and approval drawings.
3. Do I need an architect to design a house in Western Australia?
No — For most homes, renovations, or granny flats, a draftsperson is more cost-effective and efficient
