Automated compliance checking across the building lifecycle: Systematic and semantic review integrating PRISMA and deep search

As building regulations grow in complexity and digital design workflows become more integrated, the need for automated compliance checking (ACC) is intensifying. This review combines PRISMA with AI-assisted semantic retrieval and concept mapping, using Boolean and Deep Search to identify 88 peer-reviewed studies and broaden coverage across disciplines. The dual approach balances methodological rigour with the discovery capacity needed to surface studies missed by conventional keyword searches, enabling lifecycle-oriented synthesis. The paper synthesises recent advances across rule-based, ontology-driven, and AI-enhanced ACC systems, tracing a shift toward more flexible, lifecycle-aware compliance frameworks. It also introduces a conceptual map that visualise ACC processes across five lifecycle stages. Persistent barriers include interoperability gaps, limited post-construction support, and challenges in large-scale rule formalisation. Findings indicate the growing need for hybrid tools that support re-checking and traceability. The paper outlines future directions for transparent, adaptive, and jurisdiction-sensitive ACC systems in design automation and regulatory practice. • ACC systems are systematically reviewed using PRISMA and Deep Search. • A conceptual map illustrates an integrated ACC framework across the lifecycle. • Early rule-based ACC has evolved into AI, LLM, and ontology-driven systems. • Future directions focus on interoperability, re-checking, and rule scalability.