Permitting & Codes · Engineering Glossary
Plan check (or plan review) is the process by which the building department or a third-party plan review agency examines the submitted engineering drawings and calculations for compliance with the adopted building code before issuing a building permit. The plan check results in either approval, conditional approval, or a list of corrections that must be addressed.
Plan checkers review structural calculations against the IBC and ASCE 7, MEP drawings against the NEC and mechanical/plumbing codes, and energy compliance documentation against the IECC or Title 24. Complex or large projects may take weeks to months for plan check; minor tenant improvements can be approved over the counter the same day in some jurisdictions. When plan check comments are issued, the engineer of record must respond in writing to each comment, either making the requested revision or providing a code citation justifying the original design. Multiple rounds of plan check are common for complex projects. Apex Grid's engineers are experienced in responding to plan-check comments efficiently to minimize permit delays.
Apex Grid Engineering maintains this glossary as a resource for architects, contractors, developers, and property owners who encounter unfamiliar engineering terminology on their projects.
View All Engineering TermsApex Grid's licensed PEs provide permitting & codes services across multiple jurisdictions — with fast quote turnaround and permit-ready documents.
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