What Is a Chase in Construction? Definition & Uses in 2026

A chase in construction is a vertical or horizontal recess built into walls, floors, or ceilings to conceal and route building services like pipes, electrical wiring, ducts, and conduits. These strategic spaces allow utilities to run through structures without exposed installation, maintaining clean aesthetics while providing accessible pathways for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems throughout buildings.

When building or renovating structures, one challenge stands out: how do you route essential utilities without creating visual clutter or compromising structural integrity? That’s where chases come in.

A chase is a continuous recess or vertical space built into walls, floors, or ceilings specifically to accommodate building services. According to New York City building code definitions, a chase is “a continuous recess in a wall to receive pipes, ducts, conduits, etc.”

How Chases Work in Building Design

Chases provide strategic pathways that allow cables, plumbing lines, and HVAC components to run from one open space to another. For example, a vertical chase might extend from a basement through multiple floors to an attic, gathering various utility lines along the way.

In residential construction, these spaces are placed strategically so that electrical wiring, water supply lines, drainage pipes, and communication cables can be grouped and routed efficiently. This consolidation simplifies both installation and future maintenance.

Chase vs. Wall Chasing

Here’s where terminology gets interesting. While “chase” refers to a pre-planned space, “chasing” or “wall chasing” means cutting grooves into existing masonry or walls after construction. That’s a different process entirely.

Chase walls and shaft walls serve different purposes in construction design. Chase walls are standard framed walls with utility spaces, while shaft walls are fire-rated assemblies required in commercial buildings.

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Building Code Requirements

Masonry directly above chases or recesses wider than 12 inches must be supported on lintels, according to building codes. This ensures structural integrity isn’t compromised when creating these utility pathways.

Why Chases Matter in Modern Construction

MEP systems are the lifeblood of any building. Understanding how MEP systems integrate within projects is essential for efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

Chases allow designers to maintain building aesthetics while ensuring utilities remain accessible for maintenance. No homeowner wants exposed pipes running across their living room walls.

But chases also serve practical purposes during construction. They streamline rough-in phases, reduce conflicts between trades, and simplify inspections since utilities are grouped logically.

Planning Your Chase Strategy

Whether designing new construction or renovating existing spaces, understanding chases helps coordinate MEP systems effectively. These hidden pathways keep buildings functional while maintaining clean, professional appearances.

For architects and builders, early chase planning prevents costly redesigns. For homeowners, knowing where chases exist helps when planning renovations or troubleshooting utility issues.

Ready to dive deeper into construction terminology and building systems? Understanding these fundamental concepts sets the foundation for successful projects.

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