Construction documents · Virginia
For Virginia, identify which part of the Uniform Statewide Building Code governs the work. New construction, an alteration, and maintenance can call for different reference paths even when they involve the same property.
Your codes, connected to your drawings
We read the state and local codes and amendments that governments publish online, the way a human reviewer does. Our AI opens it in a web browser, goes to the section or table, and cites it in the finding with a link to the source. The model codes most states adopt, such as the International Building Code, are licensed; we use their text only where a license allows it, and you can upload a copy you’re licensed to use. We reference the section. We never copy or distribute code text.
We detect the codes your drawings cite in the code analysis, cover sheet, and general notes. Add or remove codes, and note the edition, local amendments, and project requirements.
Mark the drawings you want reviewed as Check this file. If you upload a code, such as a standard you’re licensed to use or an unpublished amendment, set it to Code and Use as reference.
Follow the linked drawing and code section, check applicability, and have the responsible professional verify the issue.
State and local references
Examples of codes that can apply in Virginia. Confirm the adopted edition, effective date, and project scope with the reviewing authority.
Select the applicable USBC part and state amendments for the project’s work. Read the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC) review guide.
Identify which reference governs the construction or existing-building scope, alongside the local submission checklist.
Code names link to official agency or publisher resources. Reviewed September 9, 2026. We detect the codes your drawings cite, and you can add or remove codes.
Virginia reference guide
Virginia DHCD identifies three USBC parts: Construction, Existing Building, and Maintenance. Establish the project’s scope before selecting references and interpreting information absent from an older building set.
Virginia DHCD: USBC overviewDHCD explains that the Board of Housing and Community Development adopts and amends the USBC while local building-inspection departments enforce it. Use state references with the local department’s submission checklist.
Virginia DHCD: USBC overviewSources reviewed September 9, 2026. Confirm current requirements and project applicability with the reviewing authority.
Prepare a useful review
Use this preparation list for Groundbook alongside the official permit checklist. Name the codes that apply.
State the applicable USBC part, edition, and permit scope, and supply the local official’s determination for alterations or changes of use.
Bring existing-condition surveys or reports, demolition plans, proposed drawings, and affected schedules. Identify unverified conditions.
Include the local checklist, agency comments, energy documents, and coordinated consultant issue. Trace each required correction through all affected sheets.
Identify which files are being checked, which are references, and which revisions are superseded. Include reviewer comments and responses where they explain an unresolved decision.
Use the drawing-register templateFrom documents to decisions
Compare stated design information with the adopted code and local amendments. Verify scope, exceptions, and the source behind each potential issue.
Review code referencesLook for incomplete information and conflicting requirements before submission. Assign each verified finding to the responsible designer.
Prepare for submissionCheck relationships across drawings, schedules, specifications, and reports. Resolve the source conflict and carry the decision into the issued set.
Review the whole packageBefore you start
They are distinct parts of the USBC. Confirm the applicable path for the work and supply the existing-condition and proposed-work information needed to support that choice.
Supply the current drawing set and schedules, relevant specifications and reports, and the reviewing authority’s checklist. Identify the edition, project scope, and permit stage. We read the state and local amendments that governments publish online. The base model codes, such as the International Building Code, are licensed; we use their text only where a license allows it. You can upload a code you’re licensed to use, or an amendment that isn’t online.
No. Groundbook surfaces potential conflicts and omissions with links to source documents for professional verification. It does not issue permits, certify compliance, provide permit-expediting services, or replace the authority having jurisdiction.
Projects in more than one state
For another project's location, start with its own authority and reference list. Requirements and adopted editions can differ across state lines.
Official source directory
Three USBC parts and state-adoption/local-enforcement roles.
Bring your drawings. We read the local codes and amendments that governments publish online.
Check your Virginia permit set before you submit
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