Building drawings for a renovation: what do you need?

For an extension, roof addition or major renovation, you need to know what will be built before construction starts. Drawings help make the plans clear and give designers, structural engineers and contractors the same basis. The drawings you need depend on the work and the stage of your project.

What types of building drawings are there?

A floor plan shows the layout of a floor: walls, openings, doors and key dimensions. An elevation drawing shows the exterior. A section drawing shows construction layers and heights in a vertical cut. Complex junctions may need detail drawings, such as where the old and new parts meet. The load-bearing structure may require separate structural drawings and calculations. These documents serve different purposes.

When are drawings useful for a renovation?

Even if your idea is not final, a drawing helps make choices visible. Where will the new space go, how will it connect to the existing home, and which doors, windows or services will change? Developed plans allow more focused discussions about feasibility, finishes, budget and schedule. For commercial property, discuss circulation and how the space will be used during or after the work.

Do you need building drawings for a permit?

An application for a permit may require building drawings and sometimes structural calculations. The exact submission requirements depend on the activity and application. The Dutch government explains which documents may be requested for an application. First use the Omgevingsloket permit check to see what applies to your address and plans. Drawings can also be valuable for preparation and construction even if no permit is required.

Are existing drawings sufficient?

Older drawings are a useful starting point, but the home or commercial space may have changed since then. Check whether the dimensions and structure match the current situation. Major work may need a site survey before design or calculations are prepared. Keep the current version of drawings throughout the project so everyone works from the same plans.

What should you provide for an initial discussion?

• The address and photos of the existing property.
• Available floor plans or building drawings, even if they are old.
• A short description of what you want to change and how you use the space.
• Your preferred schedule and a realistic indicative budget.
• The status of any permit application.

This helps identify missing information and the specialists your project may need. Also read our advice on planning a roof addition or the difference between an addition and an extension. Want to prepare the costs? Read how to make a realistic renovation budget.

Discuss your renovation plans

Planning an extension, renovation or commercial fit-out? Tell Ponto Services about your plans and send any information you already have. We can then discuss the next steps for your project and what is needed for a useful quotation.

Updated: 16 October 2026. Required documents and building rules vary by project; check your situation through the Omgevingsloket.