Architectural Services trade jargon

Blueprint

A reproduction of a technical drawing. In this context the original drawing will usually have been produced by an architectural specialist or engineer.

Building control

A legal requirement that must be obtained before carrying erecting, extending or significantly altering a building. Building control officers (also known as building control surveyors/building inspectors) are usually based within local authority building control departments.

CAD (computer-aided design)

CAD software - typically used by architects, engineers, drafters and artists - is used to create precise technical drawings. It can produce both two-dimensional drawings and three-dimensional models.

Conservation area

An area designated by the local authority to be of special historical or architectural significance, in which certain developments may be restricted.

Construction drawings

As known as working drawings or contract drawings, these accurately describe the location, design and dimensions of a project - as well as the relationships between elements within it.

Drafting

The creation of technical drawings, blueprints and plans.

Draughtsman

A person who creates technical drawings, blueprints and plans.

Feasibility study

A preliminary exploration carried out before complex projects to assess their viability.

Floor plan

A scale diagram of the layout of rooms in a building.

Professional indemnity

Insurance which protects a business in cases of professional negligence.

Survey drawings

Accurate plans of land, structures and buildings, usually drawn up by specialist surveyors.

All Trademarks™ or Registered® Trademarks belong to their respective holders, and their use does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.