Do Architectural Drawings Include MEP Plans for Homes?

When planning a residential construction project, homeowners and builders often ask whether architectural drafters provide mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and gas (MEP) drawings.

For most residential projects, the answer is no—and that is entirely normal.

Understanding how MEP systems are typically handled in residential construction can help avoid confusion, delays, and unnecessary design costs.

What Architectural Drafters Typically Provide for Residential Projects

For most residential projects—such as single-family homes, additions, garages, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—architectural drawings focus on the building itself. These drawings are prepared to obtain the building permit and generally include:

• Floor plans showing room layouts and dimensions

• Exterior elevations

• Structural framing and foundation information

• Code-related items such as egress, stairs, and guard requirements

These documents establish the overall layout, structure, and code compliance of the building. They are the core of what the building department reviews for a residential building permit.

Full engineered MEP plans are typically not part of this architectural submission.

Architectural floor plan on drafting table

This approach reflects standard practice in residential construction. Architectural drafters provide the framework and layout, but the detailed design of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and gas systems is handled separately.

How MEP Systems Are Designed and Permitted

Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and gas systems are usually designed, permitted, and installed by licensed trade contractors.

In a typical residential workflow:

• HVAC contractors design and permit heating and cooling systems

• Electricians design wiring, panels, and circuits

• Plumbers design water, drainage, and gas piping

• Each trade pulls its own permit and submits any drawings or diagrams required by the local jurisdiction

This approach allows each contractor to design systems based on the specific equipment they use, their installation methods, and local code requirements. It also aligns with how residential inspections are performed.

Architectural Drawings vs. MEP Drawings: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the distinction between drawing types is key.

Architectural Drawings

• Show the building layout and structure

• Address life-safety and building code compliance

• Are used for the building permit

• Are prepared by architectural drafters or designers

Diagrammatic MEP Information (for Coordination)

• May show fixture locations, equipment placement, or general system intent

• Helps trades coordinate space and avoid conflicts

• Is not engineered or stamped

• Does not replace trade design or permitting

Full Engineered or Stamped MEP Drawings

• Prepared by licensed engineers or specialized MEP designers

• Include calculations, load analysis, sizing, and detailed system layouts

• Are required only for certain project types or jurisdictions

For most residential projects, licensed trade contractors handle the detailed MEP design rather than relying on full engineered drawings.

Electrical wiring diagram on a computer screen

For most residential projects, full engineered MEP drawings are not necessary. Instead, the licensed trade contractors handle the detailed design and permitting.

When Are Full MEP Drawings Required?

There are limited cases where full MEP drawings may be required, including:

• Multifamily projects such as apartments or condominiums

• Projects reviewed under the commercial code

• Buildings with complex mechanical systems (such as geothermal or specialized ventilation)

• Jurisdictions with specific submittal requirements

In these situations, MEP drawings are typically prepared by licensed engineers and submitted alongside the architectural plans.

Setting the Right Expectations Early

The most effective way to avoid delays is to confirm MEP responsibilities early in the project.

Best practices include:

• Discussing MEP expectations upfront with your designer, builder, and trade contractors

• Verifying local permit requirements early in the process

• Understanding that each trade will pull their own permit and provide required documentation

• Using architectural drawings with basic coordination information where appropriate

For most residential projects, this division of responsibility is efficient, widely accepted, and expected by building departments.

A Standard and Proven Residential Workflow

Architectural drawings establish the building framework and code compliance. Licensed trade contractors design, permit, and install the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and gas systems.

This clear division of responsibility keeps residential projects moving smoothly from permit to construction, avoids redundant design costs, and ensures each system is handled by the professionals best suited to design and install it.

Understanding this process early helps homeowners and builders plan more effectively—and prevents unnecessary confusion during permitting.