Code Compliance Review

Building Code Analysis

Chicago enforces the International Building Code with local amendments covering fire separation, egress requirements, structural loads, accessibility standards, and energy efficiency. Roof deck projects face particular scrutiny around railing heights, occupancy loads, fire-rated assemblies where decks adjoin neighboring properties, and means of egress back into the building. Discovering non-compliance during permit review or—worse—during construction creates expensive delays and change orders.

We perform code compliance reviews early in the design process, systematically checking your project against applicable IBC sections and Chicago amendments. For roof decks, this includes verifying railing specifications meet guard requirements, confirming stair dimensions satisfy egress calculations, and ensuring any covered areas comply with construction type restrictions. When code conflicts with design goals, we identify alternative approaches that achieve compliance without sacrificing functionality.

You proceed to permit submission with confidence that your plans will pass code review without significant corrections. If your project involves unusual conditions—existing non-conforming structures, historic buildings with limited modification options, or complex multi-use situations—we identify these issues early and develop compliant solutions before they become barriers to approval.