Measure-up and as-built drawing service

Homeowners planning renovations, architects and designers who need existing plans, property managers, and sometimes realtors or landlords.

A flat fee per property based on size, plus extra for additional drawings such as elevations or a site plan. Rush jobs can be priced higher.

• Accurate measuring and note taking
• CAD drafting
• Comfort visiting client properties
• Organized file and project management

• Commercial general liability insurance for working in client properties, plus professional liability cover to check
• Make clear in writing that as-built drawings show measured conditions and are not certified plans unless stamped by a licensed professional
• Winter driving and travel time can reduce how many visits you can do
• Check whether your municipality or province has rules about operating a business from home or from a vehicle
• Scanning equipment can be expensive, so start with simple tools and upgrade later

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $1,500 to $7,000, depending on the tools you buy. Scanning equipment can be expensive, so one option is to start with simple measuring tools and upgrade later as work comes in.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many site visits you can complete. Winter driving and travel time can reduce how many visits you fit in, so factor that into your planning.

Check commercial general liability insurance for working in client properties, plus professional liability cover. State in writing that as-built drawings show measured conditions and are not certified unless stamped by a licensed professional. Also check local rules on running a business from home or a vehicle.