a) A topographical survey of the land showing adjacent roads, buildings & utility connections (if any), existing trees & buildings (if any), contours etc. with Google map coordinates;
b) Planning permit (if any) from the local authority;
c) Type of building (e.g. residence, office, school etc.) and basic building program. For example,
for a school, number of students per class room, number of class rooms, requirements of labs, library, cafeteria etc.

Different regions have different building codes. For example, the building code of a hilly area may not be same as a coastal area. Usually a building permit is required from the local building authority before commencement of construction. An architect licensed under the local building authority will be required to be engaged to sign the permit drawings based on the local building codes.

Beside the architect, a structural engineer, a plumbing engineer/designer, an electrical engineer, construction supervisor having knowledge of local building codes and a cost estimator/quantity surveyor (QS) are needed to be involved in a building project.

It is the client who pays the fee for the structural, plumbing or electrical design directly to the the respective engineer/designer, construction supervisor or the QS for their services

Usually a geo-technical investigation of the soil is required by the structural engineer for designing the foundation of a building. During construction tests like concrete strength may also be required.