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DWG Link Status

This rule checks whether DWG (AutoCAD) files have been correctly linked into the Revit model instead of imported.

⚠️ Importing DWG files can lead to significant performance issues, file bloat, and unwanted geometry behavior. Linking is the recommended method.

What Is Checked

  • The presence of DWG files in the project.
  • Whether each DWG is linked or imported.
  • DWG files that have been imported will be flagged as non-compliant.

Why This Matters

Importing DWGs directly into Revit causes several problems:

  • ❌ Increases file size dramatically
  • ❌ Slows down model performance and view regeneration
  • ❌ Brings in non-native geometry that cannot be cleanly edited or removed
  • ❌ Embeds the DWG permanently into the RVT file, making cleanup more difficult

By linking instead:

  • ✅ The DWG remains external and manageable
  • ✅ The model stays lightweight
  • ✅ You can control visibility per view
  • ✅ You can reload or update the DWG file independently

How to Fix

  1. Open the Manage Links dialog in Revit:
  2. Go to Insert → Manage Links

  3. Navigate to the CAD Formats tab

  4. If the DWG is listed here, it is linked — ✅ no action needed.

  5. If the DWG is not listed:

  6. It is likely imported directly.
  7. Locate it in the model (use Visibility/Graphics or a DWG category filter).

  8. Delete the imported instance.

  9. Use Insert → Link CAD to re-link the DWG file properly:

  10. Set the correct placement, units, and reference point
  11. Make sure "Link" is selected (not "Import")

Best Practice

  • Always use Link CAD rather than Import CAD.
  • Place DWG links on a dedicated workset or view-specific level to manage visibility and unload them when not needed.
  • Periodically audit your model for embedded CAD data.

🛠 If your team uses DWGs for details, overlays, or backgrounds, consider creating a CAD reference model that is linked into your main models instead of importing them individually.