Construction Drawing Review Checklist
Use this checklist during internal QA before permit submission, bid, or issue for construction. Work through general completeness first, then each discipline, then spec alignment. For the full six-step workflow, see our how to review construction drawings guide.
Automate the cross-checks
AI plan review runs this checklist across every sheet, first $100 covered for eligible work emails.
General set completeness
- Sheet index matches all sheets in the PDF package
- Revision dates consistent across disciplines
- North arrow, scale, and sheet titles on every plan
- Detail and section callouts reference existing sheets
- Code edition and project address on cover / code sheet
- Occupancy, construction type, and sprinkler status documented
Architectural
- Room dimensions consistent across plan, elevation, and section
- Door/window/finish schedules match plan tags
- RCP ceiling heights match sections and structure
- ADA door clearances, ramp slopes, and restroom layouts
- Fire-rated wall tags and egress path widths
- Wall types and fire ratings on plans match schedules
Structural
- Column grid aligns with architectural plans
- Beam depths vs required ceiling / plenum space
- Foundation plan vs architectural footprint
- Connection details exist for noted connections
- Load callouts consistent across framing plans
- Slab openings coordinated with MEP penetrations
MEP
- Equipment tags match schedules (panels, AHUs, fixtures)
- Duct and pipe routing clear of structure
- Required clearances at panels and equipment
- Plumbing fixture counts vs occupancy requirements
- Sprinkler head locations vs ceiling obstructions
- Electrical panel working clearances vs partitions
Civil / site
- Building footprint matches architectural site plan
- Finished floor elevations vs site grades at entries
- ADA accessible route slopes and landing sizes
- Storm drainage vs grading and architectural drainage notes
- Utility separations and crossing clearances
- Parking counts and stall dimensions per code
Specifications vs drawings
- Specified products match drawn assemblies
- Division 01 requirements reflected in technical sections
- Hardware sets on door schedule match spec sections
- Finish schedule materials match interior elevations
- No obsolete or discontinued products in schedules
After the checklist
Log every failed item with sheet reference and owner. Re-run coordination after revisions. Before permit, complete the plan check preparation pass and compare against most common plan check issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use a construction drawing review checklist?
Use it at design milestones (SD, DD, 80% CD) and again before permit submission or IFC. Earlier passes catch cheaper fixes; the final pass confirms revisions did not introduce new conflicts.
Who should complete the checklist?
The design team leads discipline sections; the PM or GC coordinates cross-discipline items. Many teams add a third-party or AI-assisted pass for coordination the internal team may miss.
How is this different from plan check?
This checklist is for internal QA before you submit to the jurisdiction. Plan check is the AHJ's regulatory review. Strong internal review reduces correction comments and resubmittal cycles.