FAQ

Answers before you start.

Common questions about custom design, permits, plans, and the details that shape an Arizona residential project.

All-Pro Home ServicesAPHS
RESIDENTIAL
24′-0″
Do you design commercial projects?+

No. All-Pro Home Services provides residential design and drafting only, including custom homes, additions, remodels, RV garages, and residential accessory structures in Arizona.

What is the difference between a residential building designer and an architect?+

A residential building designer can bring substantial practical construction and design experience without being a licensed architect. All-Pro provides the architectural plans and construction documents needed for many residential projects. When an Arizona project requires a registered architect or engineered work, the appropriate professional resources are coordinated.

What is CAD?+

Computer-aided design and drafting makes drawings more precise, easier to share with clients and consultants, and easier to archive. It supports the detailed plan sets builders and reviewers need.

What should I have available when we meet?+

Bring your goals, budget, property information, sketches, saved ideas, and a list of needs, wants, and wishes. An on-site review can address issues with the existing home, site, and building envelope.

What is livable square footage?+

Livable square footage is conditioned area with heating or air conditioning. Garages, porches, patios, and decks are generally non-livable space, but lot coverage may still include roofed structures.

What issues should I consider with zoning or land use?+

Setbacks, easements, flood plains, lot coverage, existing buildings, HOA CC&Rs, and local building standards can all shape the building envelope. These are reviewed before the project moves forward.

Will I need a structural engineer?+

That depends on scope and construction. Large open spaces, beams, multiple floors, second-story additions, load-path issues, basements, and some structural changes commonly require engineering.

What are building codes?+

Building codes set minimum construction standards. The applicable municipality determines which adopted code edition applies, so the requirements must be confirmed for the project location.

How long does a custom home or addition design take?+

The design process can take two to three weeks, while a complete plan set can take 30 days, 90 days, or longer. Engineering, surveys, reviews, changes, and current workload can affect the timeline.

Why do I need a building permit?+

Permits create a review and inspection path that helps confirm plans and construction meet applicable standards. Unpermitted work can create serious problems with insurance, financing, future sale, and required corrections.

What about plans from magazines or plan books?+

Stock plans can be a useful starting point, but they are not automatically matched to your lot, local requirements, building system, or lifestyle. Required revisions and missing details can quickly change the value equation.

What does an interior designer do differently?+

All-Pro focuses on the architectural plans needed for permits and construction. Interior designers may later help with furnishings, finishes, window coverings, or color choices, while structural and building decisions must stay coordinated with the construction documents.

Can All-Pro help with engineering?+

All-Pro identifies when engineering is needed and works with the appropriate structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, civil, or survey resources. Engineering services are not presented as in-house architectural or engineering licensure.

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