Code checks during design
Kestrel Labs analyzes your BIM model and produces a line-by-line report mapped to IBC, ADA, NFPA, and local amendments before the permit set is queued.
What it does
Upload a Revit, ArchiCAD, or IFC file. The parser reads geometry, spatial relationships, and program data, then applies relevant code checks for the occupancy and jurisdiction.
The structured report identifies each flagged item, cites its code section, states what failed, and assigns severity. Pass items include the applicable section reference. Export the report as PDF for client delivery or internal review.
A typical commercial floor plan check runs in minutes. Large institutional models with complex mixed occupancy may take longer, with results available before plan review.
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Checks covered
Kestrel Labs checks major code frameworks and applies jurisdiction-level amendments over the model codes.
IBC 2021
Occupancy classification, means of egress, construction type, fire resistance, and structural framing requirements under IBC 2021.
ADA Standards
Accessible route widths, door clearances, restroom dimensions, ramp slopes, parking ratios, and reach ranges under ADA Standards 2010.
NFPA 101 Life Safety
Egress capacity, travel distance, corridor ratings, exit discharge, fire separation assemblies, and occupant load under NFPA 101 Life Safety.
Local amendments
State amendments and local addenda supplement model codes. Colorado provisions are included, with additional jurisdictions available on request.
Workflow steps
Five steps from upload through report review.
Upload a BIM file
Drag a Revit RVT, ArchiCAD BIMx, or any IFC 2x3 or IFC4 file into the Kestrel Labs dashboard. Studio plans and above support files up to 2 GB.
Parse the model
The BIM parser extracts spatial geometry, room programs, element classifications, and relationships. It reads structured model data only and generates no rendering or visual output.
Run rule checks
Checks apply the relevant code formula or dimensional requirement to extracted measurements. Occupancy directs each check to the applicable code sections.
Rank and annotate violations
Each flagged item lists the violated section, such as IBC 1005.1, gives a plain-English description, compares measured and required values, and assigns severity.
Export the report
Download a structured PDF containing all pass and fail items. Share it with the project team or use it to preflight the permit set.
Covered code standards
We check each model against these standards, then apply local jurisdiction amendments.
IBC 2021: occupancy, egress, construction type, fire resistance assemblies, structural loads, mixed occupancy separation
ADA Standards 2010: accessible routes, parking, entrances, restrooms, reach ranges, ramp grades, door hardware clearances
NFPA 101 Life Safety: egress capacity, travel distance limits, corridor ratings, exit discharge, fire compartmentation, occupant load
Fair Housing Act multifamily housing: accessible entry, maneuvering clearances, adaptable features, common area compliance
Colorado amendments to IBC and residential code for commercial construction, including Front Range jurisdiction-specific addenda
Additional state and municipal amendments are available on Firm and Enterprise plans. Contact us to confirm target-jurisdiction coverage before starting.
Report structure
Reports are structured by code framework. Within each section, items appear by severity: fail first, then warning, then pass.
Each fail item gives the section reference, measured value, required value, and a plain-English description of the needed change. Pass items compare the measurement with the requirement, showing what was checked.
Export reports as PDF. Firm and Enterprise plans also provide the structured data through API access for project management and document control workflows.