Architectural plans are the foundation of any successful construction project. But not all plans are created equal. At K2D Consulting Engineers, we’ve reviewed hundreds of drawing sets and know exactly where costly issues like delays, change orders, and budget overruns tend to begin.
Before construction starts, there are three major red flags that every property owner, developer, or project manager should know to watch for.
1. Inconsistent Dimensions or Missing Measurements
This is one of the most common and expensive issues we see. Dimensions that don’t match amongst floor plans, elevations, and detail drawings can create confusion on-site. Missing critical measurements often forces field teams to stop work or make risky assumptions.
What to look for:
- Dimensions that don’t align across pages
- Lack of measurement on critical items (e.g., windows, structural walls, MEP corridors)
Why it matters:
Every hour spent clarifying an error is an hour lost in productivity, and an added risk for rework.
2. Generic or Vague Notes
If your plans are full of phrases like “typical detail” or “contractor to verify,” you may have a problem. While some flexibility is necessary, excessive vagueness often signals that the designer didn’t fully resolve key aspects of the build project. That ambiguity gets passed to the field, where assumptions turn into liabilities.
What to look for:
- Repeated use of non-specific notes
- Details marked as “TBD” (to be determined)
- Sections referenced but not included in the set
Why it matters:
The more decisions that are left to interpretation, the higher your risk of delays, disputes, and scope creep.
3. Lack of Coordination Between Disciplines
Your architectural plans don’t exist in a vacuum. They need to work in harmony with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) plans. If your architect and engineers aren’t collaborating closely, expect to run into clashes like ducts hitting beams, lighting layouts conflicting with fire sprinklers, and utility chases that don’t exist in structural framing.
What to look for:
- MEP routes that overlap with structural elements
- Conflicts between reflected ceiling plans and lighting layouts
- Details that show different conditions than the floor plan
Why it matters:
Uncoordinated plans don’t just slow construction, they can break budgets, erode trust, and force major redesigns mid-project.
What to Do If You Spot a Red Flag
If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait until you’re in the field to address them. Bring your architect, engineer, and contractor together to clarify and coordinate before any ground is broken. At K2D, our MEP engineers specialize in bridging the gap between design and execution, ensuring that every drawing is build-ready, not just on paper, but in practice.
Need a second set of eyes on your plans? Schedule a plan review with our team in Los Angeles. We’ll help you catch the small details that make a big difference.
Call us at 310.935.3773 or visit www.K2D.com to learn more.
