Help & Documentation

Getting Started

MEP QA is a building code compliance analysis platform designed to help engineers, contractors, and plan reviewers verify that mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans meet applicable building codes.

1

Create an Account

Sign up for a free account to start using the platform. You'll need a valid email address.

2

Create a Project

Each building or permit application should be a separate project. Add project details and select the applicable jurisdiction.

3

Upload PDF Plans

Upload your electrical, plumbing, and mechanical drawings in PDF format.

4

Run Analysis

Click "Run Analysis" to check your plans against the selected building code requirements.

5

Review Report

Review the detailed compliance report showing which requirements passed and which need attention.

Managing Projects

Projects are the main organizational unit in MEP QA. Each project contains:

Project Details - Name, description, and address
Jurisdiction - The applicable building code authority
Files - Uploaded PDF drawings
Analyses - Compliance check results

Project Status

draft - New project, not yet analyzed
active - Project with uploaded files
completed - Project with completed analysis

Uploading Files

MEP QA accepts PDF files containing your MEP drawings. For best results:

Ensure drawings are legible and text is selectable (not scanned images)
Include panel schedules, fixture schedules, and equipment schedules
Include all relevant notes and specifications
Maximum file size: 50MB per file

Tip: CAD-exported PDFs with embedded text provide the most accurate analysis results.

Jurisdictions

Building codes vary by location. Selecting the correct jurisdiction ensures your plans are checked against the appropriate code edition and any local amendments.

Available Codes

NEC - National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)
IPC - International Plumbing Code
IMC - International Mechanical Code
IBC - International Building Code
State and local code adoptions (California, Florida, New York, etc.)

Running Analysis

When you run an analysis, MEP QA:

Extracts text and data from your PDF drawings
Identifies relevant specifications (wire sizes, pipe sizes, equipment ratings, etc.)
Compares extracted values against code requirements
Generates a detailed compliance report

Note: Analysis is automated and should be used as a tool to assist plan review, not as a replacement for professional engineering judgment.

Understanding Reports

Analysis reports show the results of each code check:

	Pass	The checked item meets or exceeds code requirements
	Fail	The checked item does not meet code requirements and needs correction
	Warning	Potential issue that should be verified manually
	Info	Informational note for reference

Electrical Checks (NEC)

The following electrical code requirements are verified:

Wire Sizing - Conductor size vs. circuit breaker amperage (NEC Table 310.16)
Outlet Count - Number of outlets per circuit based on load calculations
GFCI Protection - Required locations (bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors, etc.)
AFCI Protection - Required for bedroom circuits
Service Size - Minimum service entrance requirements
Panel Ratings - Main and sub-panel sizing

Plumbing Checks (IPC)

The following plumbing code requirements are verified:

Water Service Size - Based on fixture unit calculations
Drain Sizing - Individual fixture and main drain pipe sizes
Vent Requirements - Proper venting for all traps
Water Heater - Capacity and BTU rating requirements
Fixture Counts - Bathroom group calculations

Mechanical Checks (IMC)

The following mechanical code requirements are verified:

HVAC Sizing - Equipment capacity vs. load calculations
Efficiency Ratings - SEER minimum requirements
Duct Sizing - Supply and return air duct capacity
Exhaust Fans - CFM requirements for bathrooms and kitchens
Ventilation - Fresh air requirements per ASHRAE 62.2

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is the automated analysis?

MEP QA uses advanced text extraction and pattern matching to identify code compliance issues. Accuracy depends on the quality of your PDF drawings. CAD-exported PDFs with clear text provide the best results. Always verify results with professional engineering review.

What if my jurisdiction isn't listed?

Select the closest matching jurisdiction or use the generic IBC/NEC/IPC options. Contact us to request additional jurisdictions.

Can I run multiple analyses on the same project?

Yes! You can run as many analyses as needed. This is useful after making corrections to verify compliance.

Are my files secure?

Yes. All files are stored securely and are only accessible to your account. See our Privacy Policy for details.

Can I share reports with others?

Yes. Use the print function to generate a PDF report that can be shared with clients, inspectors, or team members.