Reading building plans is not just a skill—it's a critical tool for anyone involved in the construction process. Whether you're a developer envisioning the future, a broker negotiating deals, a property manager overseeing daily operations, or a contractor bringing the vision to life, understanding these plans is fundamental. Plans are the roadmap to every detail of a project, ensuring everyone is aligned and moving toward the same goal.

If you’re new to reading plans, it can seem overwhelming at first. With countless symbols, terms, and types of plans, it’s easy to feel lost. But don’t worry! With guidance from our Director of Construction and straight-up plans specialist, Curtis Schmidtberger, this guide will simplify the process! We’ll break down the different types of plans you’re likely to encounter, along with the most common terms, symbols, and views used. By the end, we hope you’ll feel confident and ready to tackle any project with ease and understanding!

Keep in mind, this is just the beginning. There's so much more to learn, and as you dive deeper into reading plans, you'll discover layers of detail and complexity. Every line, symbol, and abbreviation holds a specific meaning, and mastering this language of construction opens up endless possibilities for successfully guiding projects from concept to completion. As you go through this guide, take note of any areas you'd like to explore further and share them with us—we’d be happy to cover them in future guides. Now, let’s get started and unlock the secrets behind the plans that will bring your projects to life!

Types of Plans

1. Site Plans

• Definition: A site plan provides an aerial view of the entire project area, illustrating property lines, building locations, access roads, landscaping, parking, and utility connections. It highlights site features, zoning information, setbacks, and easements.

• Responsible Party: Typically created by civil engineers or architects.

• Example: A site plan for a retail center shows where the stores will sit, how customers will park, and the placement of landscaping around the project.

• Pro Tip: Use the site plan to verify compliance with local zoning codes, such as required parking spaces or setbacks from neighboring properties.

2. Floor Plans

• Definition: A floor plan is a horizontal slice of the building at a specific level, showing rooms, walls, doors, windows, and structural elements. Each floor may have multiple layers of detail, including furnishings and fixtures.

• Responsible Party: Developed by architects and interior designers.

• Example: A restaurant floor plan shows the kitchen, dining area, and restrooms.

• Pro Tip: Floor plans also include circulation paths, essential for planning movement through the building.

3. Civil Plans

• Definition: Civil plans focus on earthworks, grading, paving, stormwater management, and utilities like sewer lines and water mains. These plans ensure the project integrates with the surrounding environment.

• Responsible Party: Prepared by civil engineers.

• Example: A civil plan for an office park shows how the land will be leveled to support the building and parking areas.

• Pro Tip: Pay attention to drainage solutions; poor drainage can lead to water damage down the line.

4. Elevations

• Definition: Elevation drawings provide flat, two-dimensional views of each side of the building, detailing window placements, exterior materials, and architectural elements like balconies or signage.

• Responsible Party: Created by architects.

• Example: The front elevation of a building displays its glass facade and entrance doors.

• Pro Tip: Elevations help developers and contractors visualize the finished exterior and plan for material procurement.

5. Sectional Drawings

• Definition: A sectional drawing cuts vertically through the building to reveal the structure’s interior components—like floors, ceilings, walls, and staircases. It provides detailed insight into how the structure fits together.

• Responsible Party: Typically created by architects or structural engineers.

• Example: A sectional drawing of a school building shows the internal structure of the roof and the flooring system between levels.

• Pro Tip: Sections are critical for understanding how different elements integrate, especially in multi-story projects.

6. Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (MP&E) Plans

• Definition: MP&E plans outline the design and placement of mechanical systems (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical infrastructure. These systems are crucial for the functionality and comfort of the building.

• Responsible Party: Designed by specialized engineers in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical disciplines.

• Example: An MP&E plan for a house shows HVAC ductwork, plumbing, and electrical circuits.

• Pro Tip: Contractors rely on these plans to coordinate utility installations with other construction activities.

7. Structural Plans

• Definition: Structural plans focus on the load-bearing elements of the building, including foundations, columns, beams, and other support systems. They ensure the building can safely withstand loads and environmental forces like wind and earthquakes.

• Responsible Party: Structural engineers create these plans based on architectural designs and material specifications.

• Example: A structural plan for a warehouse shows the placement of reinforced concrete columns and steel beams to support the roof.

• Pro Tip: Structural plans must be reviewed in detail to ensure that all load-bearing elements are correctly aligned with the architectural plans and local building codes.

8. Fire Safety Plan

• Definition: A fire safety plan outlines the design of fire prevention and response systems, including fire exits, alarms, sprinkler systems, and emergency lighting. It ensures the building meets fire code regulations and keeps occupants safe in an emergency.

• Responsible Party: Fire safety engineers and architects collaborate to create these plans, with input from local fire authorities.

• Example: A fire safety plan for a gym shows the location of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and smoke detectors on each floor.

• Pro Tip: These plans are often required for permitting and should be carefully reviewed to ensure compliance with fire codes and safety standards.

9. Reflected Ceiling Plan (RCP)

• Definition: An RCP shows a view of the ceiling as if it were reflected onto the floor, detailing the layout of light fixtures, ceiling tiles, ventilation grilles, and other ceiling-mounted components. This plan helps coordinate mechanical, electrical, and architectural elements in ceiling construction.

• Responsible Party: Created by architects and electrical engineers, with input from mechanical engineers.

• Example: An RCP for a gym shows the placement of lighting, fire sprinklers, exit signs, and air conditioning vents.

• Pro Tip: Always cross-reference the RCP with electrical and mechanical plans to ensure that lighting and HVAC systems are aligned with the overall design.

20 Key terms for Reading Plans

1. LegendS, sCHEDULES, & lISTS

• Definition: LegendS, sCHEDULES, & lISTS ARE keyS or reference guideS that explain the symbols, patterns, and abbreviations used throughout the plans. Each plan can contain hundreds of unique symbols specific to that project, representing everything from electrical outlets TO DOORS to fire extinguishers.

• Importance: Without understanding the legend, interpreting symbols and abbreviations correctly becomes impossible. The legend ensures clear communication and reduces errors during construction.

• Example: In an office renovation project, the LegendS, sCHEDULES, & lISTS may include symbols for ceiling-mounted light fixtures, electrical outlets, and emergency exits, ensuring every contractor knows where to install these components.

2. Approvals

• Definition: Approvals refer to the formal consent given by relevant authorities or stakeholders before certain stages of construction can proceed. This can include zoning, permitting, environmental reviews, and client approvals on designs or material selections.

• Importance: Securing approvals ensures that the project complies with local regulations and meets the expectations of all involved parties, preventing costly delays or legal issues.

• Example: Before construction can begin on a new office building, approvals are needed from the city for zoning and permitting, as well as client approval for the final design and materials.

3. Scale

• Definition: The scale of a plan establishes the relationship between the dimensions on the drawing and the actual size of the structure. For example, a scale of 1:50 means that 1 unit on the drawing (such as 1 inch) equals 50 units (inches) in real life. Different scales are used depending on the the type of plans—for instance, site plans often have a smaller scale to cover a larger area, while detail drawings have a larger scale to show intricate components.

• Importance: Proper understanding of the scale ensures accurate measurements during construction and avoids costly mistakes.

• Example: On a restaurant project, the general contractor checks the scale on a kitchen floor plan to ensure appliances like ovens and refrigerators fit the allocated spaces without crowding the area.

4. Call Outs

• Definition: Call outs are notes or annotations on the plan that provide specific instructions or direct the reader to other sheets or detail drawings. These notes may refer to critical areas requiring special materials, assemblies, or compliance with additional specifications.

• Importance: Call outs reduce ambiguity by directing contractors to detailed sections or spec sheets, ensuring consistency across trades.

• Example: A call out on a site plan may direct you to reference a more detailed drawing of a drainage swale found on the civil drawings.

5. Spec Sheets

• Definition: Spec sheets, or specification sheets, are supplemental documents outlining detailed information about materials, fixtures, and components required for the project. These documents specify dimensions, product numbers, manufacturer information, and installation methods to ensure all elements meet design and quality standards.

• Importance: Spec sheets help maintain quality and consistency by ensuring all trades use the correct materials.

• Example: A spec sheet for a roof hatch shows the specifications, DIMENSIONS, and the manufacturer’s recommended installation procedure.

6. North Arrow

• Definition: The north arrow symbol on a plan shows which direction is north. This is essential for understanding the building's orientation and planning for natural light, wind, and other environmental factors.

• Importance: Proper orientation helps with energy efficiency and ensures that elements like windows and entrances are correctly positioned for optimal use.

• Example: For a commercial building in Las Vegas, the architect uses the north arrow to position large windows on the north side of the building to minimize heat gain and reduce energy costs.

7. Grid Lines

• Definition: Grid lines divide the plan into a series of squares or sections, each identified by letters and numbers (e.g., A5 or C7). These lines help organize the plan and provide reference points for measurements and installation.

• Importance: Grid lines ensure consistency across various trades, making it easy to align components like plumbing lines, electrical outlets, and walls.

• Example: In a building, the concrete contractor uses grid lines to position the footings precisely around the PERIMETER, noting windows, doors and insets.

8. Hatchs & Patterns

• Definition: Hatch patterns are graphical textures or fills used on plans to indicate materials or finishes, such as concrete, tile, or brick. Each pattern represents a different material type and is identified in the legend.

• Importance: Hatch patterns help differentiate between materials, making it easier for contractors to identify which materials to use and where.

• Example: On a retail project, the plans use a brick pattern to indicate areas where concrete will be stamped, while rocky pattern shows gravel placement.

9. Revisions

• Definition: Revisions indicate changes made to the original plans after they were issued. These changes are marked with clouds or triangles on the drawings, along with a revision number and date in the title block.

• Importance: Revisions ensure the project team works with the most up-to-date information, minimizing the risk of errors or rework.

• Example: During a tenant improvement project, the architect issues a revision adding an extra exit door to meet fire safety regulations. The revision cloud marks the change, and contractors adjust their work accordingly.

10. Title Block

• Definition: The title block is a section of the plan containing essential information, such as the project name, architect or engineer responsible, drawing date, and revision history. It also includes the sheet number, scale, and phase of the project (e.g., design, construction).

• Importance: The title block provides quick access to key project details and ensures the correct version of the plan is being used.

• Example: On a construction site, the project manager checks the title block to confirm that the team is using the latest version of the electrical plans.

11. Dimensions

• Definition: Dimensions are measurements shown on the plan that indicate the size of elements and the distances between them. These measurements ensure that walls, doors, windows, and other components are built according to design specifications.

• Importance: Accurate dimensions are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the design and avoiding costly mistakes.

• Example: A wall section on a commercial plan shows the window width as 12 feet and the spacing between the window and the corner of the building as 8 feet, guiding the framing crew during installation.

12. Annotations

• Definition: Annotations are written notes or labels on a plan, used to clarify design intent or provide extra details about materials, installation methods, or components.

• Importance: Annotations ensure that all involved parties have access to detailed guidance without needing separate verbal explanations.

• Example: On elevation plan, an annotation provides the specifications for windows, providing critical information for the framer.

13. Section Marks

• Definition: Section marks indicate the location of sectional views (cross-sections) on the plan. These symbols direct the viewer to more detailed cut-through drawings of walls, floors, or structural components.

• Importance: Section marks link different parts of the plan to ensure all teams understand how the building’s internal structure will fit together.

• Example: A section mark on a floor plan points to a stairwell, indicating a separate section drawing with details on tread dimensions and railing materials.

14. Elevation Marks

• Definition: Elevation marks show which side or face of the building a particular elevation drawing refers to. Each elevation mark corresponds to a view of the building, such as north or west.

• Importance: These marks help teams understand how the building will appear from all angles and coordinate exterior finishes.

• Example: On a retail project, the west elevation shows where the signage and storefront windows will be installed.

15. Building Footprint

• Definition: This is the outline of the building’s perimeter on the site plan, showing where the structure will be located relative to the property lines.

• Importance: The building footprint ensures the project stays within the designated construction area.

• Example: A building footprint on a retail project shows the exact placement of the structure to avoid encroaching on utility easements.

16. Easements

• Definition: Easements are legal allowances for a third party to use part of the property for specific purposes, such as utilities or access.

• Importance: Understanding easements is critical to avoid construction conflicts with utility companies or adjacent properties.

• Example: A site plan shows a utility easement along the back edge of the property for power lines.

17. Footings

• Definition: Footings are the base of the foundation that distribute the building’s weight to the ground.

• Importance: Properly designed footings prevent structural settling or failure.

• Example: A footing plan for a retail building shows reinforced concrete pads supporting load-bearing columns.

18. Setbacks

• Definition: Setbacks are minimum required distances between the building and property boundaries, roads, or other structures.

• Importance: Ensures compliance with zoning laws and maintains space between neighboring properties.

• Example: A site plan shows a 10-foot and a 15-foot setback from the street for a new office building.

19. Clear Height

• Definition: Clear height refers to the vertical distance from the floor to the lowest obstruction, such as a beam or lighting fixture.

• Importance: Ensures adequate space for machinery, storage, or equipment in industrial and commercial buildings.

• Example: A commercial plan specifies a clear height of 10 feet 6 inches from the slab to the top of the windows.

20. Architectural Symbols

• Definition: These symbols represent architectural elements throughout the space. They vary slightly between projects but follow standard conventions. As mentioned earlier, each plan can contain hundreds of unique symbols, so it’s important to reference the legend.

• Importance: They provide clarity for all trades working on the project. Understanding these symbols is essential for clear communication and precise execution on the job site.

• Examples:

it’s no doubt that interpreting complex building plans can be challenging, especially with the multitude of symbols, annotations, and technical terms involved, even for experienced professionals. From architectural symbols to MP&E layouts, plans are filled with technical details that require careful coordination to avoid costly errors. That’s where our design-build services come in, simplifying the entire process by creating a seamless workflow between architects, engineers, and contractors. Our approach ensures that everyone involved in your project stays on the same page, reducing miscommunications, eliminating unnecessary delays, and minimizing the risk of change orders.

Whether you’re a developer launching a new retail center, a property manager handling tenant improvements, or a broker working to assess the feasibility of a site, Brandise Construction is proud to offer personalized support every step of the way. From the early stages of concept development, site evaluation, and permitting, through to construction, inspections, and grand opening, we ensures that every phase is handled with precision and care.

Our extensive experience and long-standing relationships with architects and engineers allow us to proactively address potential challenges before they arise. By being there from start to finish, we guarantee a smooth delivery that aligns with your budget, timeline, and vision. We take pride in handling the heavy lifting, so you can focus on what matters most—making your project a success.

At Brandise Construction, our mission is to simplify your construction projects through our dependable, client-centered design-build services. We hope this guide has left you feeling confident and eager to move forward! If you have questions, noticed we need to make a revision, or are ready to starting reading the plans for your next project, reach out to us! And be sure to let us know what you think is most essential for reading plans!