Exploring the potential of parallel drafting of building regulations

Abstract

The ability for computers to interpret and utilise computerised building regulations is crucial for automated compliance checking of buildings, enabling a faster and more objective building permit review. Since natural language regulations are often not designed to be represented formally, integrating formal representations into the regulation drafting process could drive this change. Through in-depth qualitative expert interviews with regulators worldwide, this study examines the drafting process of building regulations. It aims to establish a methodology for developing formal representations in parallel with natural language versions. To be able to do so, the first step is to understand the current workflow and its requirements. The interviewees in this study highlighted several benefits of parallel drafting, including improved regulation quality and reduced inconsistencies. However, they also acknowledged challenges such as the difficulty of modifying existing laws and the significant time and costs required for such changes. This study explores various strategies for integrating formal representations into the drafting process of building regulations. Notably, in many countries, significant progress has been made towards automated compliance checking. However, much of this progress has taken place independently of legislative bodies, limiting the potential of automation in the building permit process. Nonetheless, early efforts by legislators to adopt formal representations are emerging. This study aims to raise awareness of these developments and contribute to the broader understanding of how formal representations can enhance the regulation drafting process.