Drawings are the “map” of your project. They hide the details that drive cost, timeline and quality—dimensions, finishes, balcony falls, waterproofing points, and how services will run.
You don’t need to become an engineer. But you do need to understand the basics and ask the right questions before the site starts—especially in Cyprus, where planning and building permit applications are submitted through the IPPODAMOS system and plot boundaries must be crystal clear.
Before you open the drawings – the 5 items you should have
- A site plan/topographic that matches the plot’s cadastral details.
- The approved/latest drawings (not an old draft set): plans/elevations/sections + key details.
- Window/door schedules and finish schedules (if available).
- Specifications or a scope description (materials, finishes, deliverables).
- Permit terms/conditions (where applicable), so you know what is allowed and what isn’t.
Tip:
Ask your team to confirm you’re reviewing the final/approved version. Many site problems start with the wrong drawing revision.
How to read a floor plan (like a client, not like a designer)
A floor plan is the most useful drawing for an owner because it shows how you’ll live in the space.
Start with:
- Scale & dimensions: trust the dimension lines, not your eyes.
- Orientation (north): in Cyprus, sun exposure affects comfort and shading.
- Structural elements: columns/walls impact layout and furniture placement.
- Doors and windows: opening directions affect circulation and storage.
- Wet areas: kitchens/bathrooms hide the most technical details (drainage, falls, waterproofing).
A simple method:
Read the plan in a “walking route”: entrance → living → kitchen → bedrooms → bathrooms → balconies. Write down anything unclear or impractical.
Elevations and sections – where the real building is revealed
Elevations
Elevations show the building’s external appearance and can reveal:
- heights and proportions,
- shading elements and overhangs,
- exterior materials,
- balcony railings and key external details.
Sections
Sections are often ignored by clients, but they are critical. They show:
- clear ceiling heights,
- levels and steps,
- floor/insulation build-ups,
- how balconies, roofs and flat roofs are constructed.
For flat roofs/roof terraces, sections help you understand drainage falls and how waterproofing layers are protected.
The “technical” drawings you should still review
You don’t need to design the MEP systems yourself—but you should know what to request and confirm.
Electrical
- Socket/switch/lighting point locations.
- Loads for A/C, water heating, kitchen appliances, laundry.
- Distribution board capacity for current and future needs.
Plumbing & drainage
- Drain runs and potential clashes with structure.
- Access panels for maintenance.
- Drains and falls in showers/balconies.
Mechanical / ventilation
- Bathroom/kitchen extraction routes.
- Roof/terrace equipment locations and service access.
Site plan, plot boundaries and cadastral alignment in Cyprus
In Cyprus, plot identification (e.g., sheet/plan/parcel references) and cadastral plans are essential for confirming location and boundaries.
What to confirm:
- The building sits within the correct plot boundaries.
- Key offsets/lines shown on the site plan are respected.
- Entrances, ramps and parking actually work in real life (not just on paper).
Permits and approved drawings – why it matters
In Cyprus, planning and building permit applications are submitted through IPPODAMOS. The practical takeaway for an owner is simple:
your project is tied to specific drawings and conditions, and changes during construction must be managed carefully.
Protective questions:
- Which drawings are “approved”, and which are “for construction”?
- If we make changes, what do they affect (cost/timeline/permit terms)?
- What are the critical requirements the site must meet?
12 questions worth asking before the site starts
- What are the top 3 details that, if done wrong, will cause long-term issues?
- Where are the critical waterproofing points (flat roof, balconies, showers)?
- How are falls and drainage solved outdoors?
- Which exterior materials perform best under strong sun/UV (and coastal exposure, if relevant)?
- What is specified for insulation/windows and how will correct installation be checked?
- Which items tend to hide extra costs (special details, joinery, metalwork)?
- What is the site sequence and which stages are “must-check” points?
- Who supervises, and who approves changes?
- How will variations be priced and approved?
- What are my finish options and by when must I decide?
- What documentation will be delivered (as-built, manuals, EPC where applicable)?
- What is the realistic timeline and the main delay risks?
How TEKTON TECHNIKI LTD can help
When drawings are properly reviewed before the project starts, you reduce surprises, delays and unnecessary costs.
TEKTON TECHNIKI LTD undertakes construction, renovations and project management, with a focus on planning, budgeting, site supervision and quality control—from design coordination through delivery.
CTA:
Contact us to discuss your project and align drawings, stages and technical details early.
Contact details:
Tel: +357 22 762476 | Mobile: +357 99 328292 | Email: info@tekton.com.cy