Revit Tip: Targeted Interference Checking for Revit BIM Coordination

Interference checking is one of the most effective ways to find physical clashes before they become field problems. In Revit, the Interference Check tool compares selected categories and reports elements that occupy the same physical space. Used regularly, it helps design and coordination teams resolve conflicts while changes are still fast and inexpensive.

To run a check, go to Collaborate > Coordinate > Interference Check > Run Interference Check. Choose the first category group, then choose the second group to compare. For example, check structural framing against ducts, pipes against walls, or cable trays against ceilings.

• Start with high-risk category pairs. Focus first on elements that commonly compete for limited space:
  • Ducts versus structural framing
  • Pipes versus beams, floors, and foundations
  • Mechanical equipment versus walls or ceilings
  • Cable trays versus ducts and pipes
  • Doors versus furniture, casework, or equipment clearances
• Check links as part of coordination. If consultant models are linked into the project, include relevant linked-model categories in the test. A coordinated clash process should not stop at the boundaries of one discipline’s file.
• Use focused checks instead of one oversized test. A broad all-category comparison can create a long list of low-value results. Smaller, discipline-based checks are easier to review, assign, and close.
• Review results in context. Select an interference result and use Show to locate the elements in the model. Then examine the surrounding conditions in plan, section, and a dedicated 3D coordination view. A reported overlap is not always an error; some intentional connections, such as a pipe entering equipment, are valid.

Create a dedicated 3D view for coordination work. Apply a section box, hide unnecessary categories, and use filters or view templates to make the clashing systems easy to read. This reduces visual noise and makes review meetings more productive. It is also helpful to apply consistent colors by discipline: for example, structure in gray, ducts in blue, plumbing in green, and electrical systems in orange.

When a genuine clash is found, do not simply move the nearest element. Confirm the design priority before making changes. Structural depth, required slopes, access clearances, code requirements, equipment service zones, and ceiling constraints may determine which system should move. Record the agreed action, responsible party, and target completion date in the team’s issue-tracking workflow.

Keep in mind that Revit’s native Interference Check identifies hard clashes—physical intersections. It does not automatically identify soft clashes such as inadequate maintenance clearance, installation tolerances, or required access zones. For more advanced multidisciplinary clash workflows, teams often complement Revit with coordination and model-review tools available through NOVEDGE’s Autodesk Revit resources.

A practical routine is to run targeted interference checks before each major issue, model exchange, or coordination meeting. Save the results, resolve or document each item, and rerun the same checks after revisions. This simple cycle turns clash detection from a last-minute cleanup exercise into a reliable quality-control process.

For Revit software, training, and workflow solutions that support stronger BIM coordination, visit NOVEDGE.

You can find all the Revit products on the NOVEDGE web site at this page.