How to Check Drawings Against Building Code
Methods for verifying construction drawings comply with building codes and standards.
Definition
Checking drawings against building codes traditionally requires manual review by experts familiar with applicable codes. AI-powered code compliance tools can automate much of this process by analyzing drawings and identifying potential code violations. These systems can check egress, accessibility, fire protection, and structural requirements against IBC, local amendments, and other applicable codes.
In Depth
Checking drawings against building code starts with identifying the applicable codes and the project's fundamental code parameters — occupancy classification, construction type, building height and area, and sprinkler status. AI then applies the specific requirements that these parameters trigger — egress provisions, fire-resistance ratings, plumbing fixture counts, accessibility requirements, and energy code provisions.
The checking process compares the drawings against each requirement: measuring corridor widths against the code minimum, counting exits and calculating their capacity, verifying fire-resistance ratings match the code requirements for the construction type, and checking accessible route dimensions at every point along the path.
Examples
Using AI to scan drawings for code violations
Automating egress compliance checks
Verifying accessibility requirements in plans
Nomic Use Cases
See how Nomic applies this in production AEC workflows:
Frequently Asked Questions
Checking drawings against building codes traditionally requires manual review by experts familiar with applicable codes. AI-powered code compliance tools can automate much of this process by analyzing drawings and identifying potential code violations. These systems can check egress, accessibility, fire protection, and structural requirements against IBC, local amendments, and other applicable codes.
Using AI to scan drawings for code violations. Automating egress compliance checks. Verifying accessibility requirements in plans.
Automated Code Compliance: Check drawings against 380+ building codes and standards with cited answers. Automated Drawing Review: Automatically review drawings against building codes, internal standards, and client requirements.