Building Information Modeling (BIM)-based code checking stands out as a promising area that seeks to automate the translation of building regulations into programmable criteria. Nonetheless, the translation process still faces significant challenges of integrating natural language regulations into a form that computers can process. This gap necessitates manual data entry by users, introducing a bottleneck that undermines the efficiency and user experience of BIM-based code checking systems. This study aimed to develop an algorithm using BIM to automatically identify the presence or absence of refuge areas in high-rise buildings. In order to do so, the author analyzed the hierarchy of building acts to identify the property information that is essential for deter-mining refuge areas. Using property information such as space classification codes, non-combustible materials, fire-resistant structures, special escape stairs, and emergency elevators, a rule-based algorithm was proposed to assess code compliance. The algorithm enables the automatic identification and assessment of refuge areas in BIM models, opening up the possibility of automating regulatory review during the building permit stage. These results show how BIM technology can be used to significantly improve the accuracy of code checking, reducing the workload and potential for human error during the building permit stage. Therefore, this study shows that BIM-based code checking will be a key contribution to improving the overall quality of construction projects.