Student Workbook: CPCCBC4015 Prepare Specifications For All Construction Works

Student workbook
CPCCBC4015
Prepare specifications for all construction works
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Version: 20210716
Date created: 12 July 2020
Date modified: 05 August 20210
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Contents
Getting started.................................................................................................................. 5
What will I learn by completing this workbook? ................................................................... 6
Topic 1: Introduction ...................................................................................................... 7
What is a specification? ......................................................................................................... 8
Topic 2: Specification requirements ........................................................................... 10
Specification requirements .................................................................................................. 11
2.1The importance of thorough and accurate documentation ........................................... 11
2.3 Essential information ..................................................................................................... 11
2.4 Legislative requirements ................................................................................................ 12
2.5 Australian Standards and quality of work ...................................................................... 13
2.7 Standard and project-specific requirements ................................................................. 14
2.8 Specification worksections ............................................................................................ 15
2.4 Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) Specification............................................ 16
2.5 Conducting a site inspection.......................................................................................... 16
2.6 Quality Assurance .......................................................................................................... 17
Topic 3: The Scope of Work ......................................................................................... 18
3.1 Schedules ....................................................................................................................... 19
3.2 Cross referencing ........................................................................................................... 24
3.3 Level of Detail................................................................................................................. 26
Topic 4: Contract and Preliminaries............................................................................ 27
4.1 Contract documents ...................................................................................................... 28
4.2 Tenders .......................................................................................................................... 29
4. 3 Site access ..................................................................................................................... 29
4.4 Permits and fees ............................................................................................................ 29
4.5 Sub-contractors ............................................................................................................. 29
4.6 Services .......................................................................................................................... 30
4.7 Insurance ....................................................................................................................... 30
4.8 Program of Works........................................................................................................... 30
4.9 Testing ............................................................................................................................ 31
4.10 Provisional Sums .......................................................................................................... 31
4.11 Prime cost items .......................................................................................................... 31
Topic 5: Preparing a specification document .................................................................... 32
5.1 Preparing the specification document ............................................................................. 33
5.2 Co-ordination with drawings ......................................................................................... 34
5.4 Setting Out ..................................................................................................................... 34
5.4 Cross referencing ........................................................................................................... 35

5.5 Version control ............................................................................................................... 36
5.6 Presenting the Specification .......................................................................................... 36
5.7 NATSPEC ......................................................................................................................... 38
Sample specifications .......................................................................................................... 41
Image attributions .......................................................................................................... 41

Getting started

What will I learn by completing this workbook?
This workbook covers the unit of competency CPCCBC4015 - Prepare specifications for all
construction works.
Successfully completing this unit will give you the skills and knowledge required to prepare
clearly understood specifications for construction works ranging from an outline to a
detailed specification that meets contractual obligations and development of work
specifications as it applies to the National Construction Code (NCC) classifications:
Residential - Class 1 and 10 buildings, maximum two storeys; and
Commercial - Class 2 to 9, Type C only constructions.
This can apply to all construction industry personnel, including residential drafters and
building designers, who are responsible for specifying materials, project timelines and
quality of work for residential and commercial construction projects.
Completion of the general construction induction training program (the "White Card")
specified by the Code of Practice for Construction Work is required for any person who is to
carry out construction work.
Alright, let’s get started!

Topic 1: Introduction

What is a specification?
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to prepare clearly
understood specifications for construction works that may range from an outline to a more
detailed specification. It includes establishing the level of detail required in inherent
contractual obligations and developing the work specifications.
This is learning resource is an introduction to the principles of specification preparation for
residential and commercial construction projects.
Specifications are written technical descriptions of materials, equipment, standards, and
quality for the construction of the building. Schedules of materials and components may
supplement the specification. These documents are used to communicate information about
the project requirements as an extension of what is included in notation on the drawings.
Drawings, specifications, and schedules, with the general conditions of contract, form the set
of contract documents for the construction of the building.
A specification has three main purposes, as a:
1. Legal Document- the specification forms part of the contract documents, with the
contract, schedules, and drawings.
1. Tender Document- the specification provides information for builders and other
contractors to price the project accurately.
2. Working Document- the specification provides detailed information for the

construction of the project and must clearly and precisely convey the standard and
quality to be achieved.
The specification must name the standard form of contract to be used. It may be a standard
contract developed by the AIA (Australian Institute of Architects), MBA (Master Builders
Association) or the NSW Office of Fair Trading.
Contract documents include, in hierarchical order:
• The contract conditions.

• the specification.
• architectural drawings.
• other documents listed in the contract, including schedules.

Specification notes may be included on working drawings for a very small project but to
provide adequate detailed information even on small projects a clear and concise written
document is prepared to form part of the contract documents. A specification for a similar
project within may be used as the basis, or a standard specification format such as NATSPEC
may be used as a template. Both approaches to specification writing involve the addition of
project-specific information and details.
For a very complex project, the specification may be a highly detailed document including
contributions from specialist consultants writing specific sections. It may include technical
manuals, schedules, and data sheets. Such a document may be 200-300 pages for a highly
complex multi-storey building with multiple tenants and uses and is likely to be written by a
specialist specification writer. Residential specifications are usually a simply structured
document divided into trade sections.

Topic 2: Specification
requirements

Specification requirements
2.1The importance of thorough and accurate

documentation
The specification is a vital part of the project documentation. Inaccuracy, omissions, and unclear
wording may result in misinterpretation of project requirements and errors in project costing or
even result in construction errors. These errors may have significant implications for costs and
time as well as potential legal liability.
Thorough and accurate specification writing is important as the construction industry becomes
more complex with requirements of relevant codes, legislation, and standards, as well as
certification of compliance with NCC performance requirements. The specification, drawings and
schedules are read together with the contract conditions. The specification takes precedence over
the drawings if there is any conflict in the documentation. The specification is not secondary to the
drawings and must be referred to throughout the construction project.
2.3 Essential information

The project documentation (working drawings, specification, and other relevant documents) is the
result of a design process which involves working through the design brief, designing the building
to the satisfaction of the client, and meeting legislative requirements. The scope of the project is
included in these drawings and other documents. The project documentation records the outcome
of the design process and includes the essential information to proceed to approval and
construction.
The type of specification and level of detail is determined by a number of factors:
• The complexity of the project - the more complex and non-standard a project is, the more
detail is required within the contract documentation and therefore the specification. A
house using standard building materials and construction methods will require a less
detailed specification than a high-rise multi-use commercial building with complex services.
• Even for residential projects, the complexity can vary enormously from project to project,
depending on budget, construction methods, contract type and whether the owner, builder
or third party such as an architect is undertaking project management.

• The level of detail provided on the drawings - some projects have fairly simple or generic
information included on the drawings, relying on the specification for more detailed
information. Other drawings may include more extensive notes and have a less detailed
specification. Correlation between the drawings and specification is essential.
• Tender method - a specification for a competitive tender with a number of builders

tendering on the same project must provide enough detail for accurate costing of items
without misinterpretation.
2.4 Legislative requirements

In a detailed specification reference to relevant authorities and statutory requirements
are made in the Preliminaries section. Applicable legislative requirements for
construction projects include the following:
• The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 specifies the types of approvals that
are required to undertake building work in NSW, and the matters that must be satisfied as
part of those approvals.
• Planning approvals may include conditions of approval applied by the council or building
surveyor that require additional work, for example, opaque film to be applied to a glass
panel balustrade for privacy purposes. This work must be included in the specification as a
part of the work to be approved for construction and included in the contract documents.
• Building work must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC). Construction
approval signifies compliance with the NCC requirements.
• Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) is an NSW Government initiative requiring energy and
water efficient design of residential buildings and a BASIX Certificate to be submitted as a
part of planning approval documentation.
• The Home Building Act 1989 and the Home Building Regulation 2014, administered by NSW
Fair Trading, is the law that regulates the residential building industry in New South Wales.
It outlines the statutory rights of homeowners, builders, and contractors including
warranties, payments, deposit, insurance, and other matters relating to residential
construction work. This is consumer protection legislation for residential construction
contracts in NSW.

• Competition and Consumer Act 2010 covers Australian Consumer law generally. It prohibits
misleading and deceptive conduct, unfair contract terms in standard form consumer
contracts, provides guarantees of consumer rights when buying goods, provides for product
safety law and enforcement and provides penalties, enforcement powers and consumer
redress.
2.5 Australian Standards and quality of work

Australian Standards are referred to in the NCC and set down the required standard or quality of
work.
Relevant Australian Standards are usually listed at the beginning of each work section in the
specification. This draws not only the builder and subcontractor’s attention to the standard. Sub-
contractors may only be given the work sections applicable to their area of work and must have
the relevant Australian Standards for reference. The building contractor must also have direct
access on-site to relevant Australian Standards. The relevant and current Australian Standards
must be referred to in the specification.
It may be necessary to refer to detail in Australian Standards for specific items, but it is
inappropriate to copy sections from the Australian Standard into the specification.
2.6 Codes of Practice

Specific industry codes of practice may also provide relevant information on a product, process or
installation method complementing Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws and regulations and may
be referred to in the specification or researched to provide specific detailing or performance
requirements.
For example, the Model Code of Practice - Construction Work, administered by Safe Work Australia
– provides information on the responsibilities of construction workers on the work site especially
with regard to WHS. This model Code should be read in conjunction with other codes of practice
on specific hazards and control measures relevant to the construction industry.
Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations on contractors and designers should be noted with
reference to relevant legislation in the contract and in the specification Preliminaries section for a
construction project.

Compliance with the requirements of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and the Work Health
and Safety Regulation 2017 is mandatory. Compliance involves obligations for employers, building
contractors and designers including:
• Duty of care.
• Information, instruction, and training.
• Consultation.
• Risk management.
• Licensing.
2.7 Standard and project-specific requirements

Standard forms of specification can be used but should be examined to determine suitability and
edited accordingly. Non-standard requirements can be developed with advice from specialists
where technical aspects require clarification.
Specifications can be developed from a variety of sources.
• Office master specification or template - this may have been refined and developed over
time. Ideally it is highly comprehensive but with the specific items left blank. It is then a
matter of deleting the clauses that are not required and filling in the blank spaces with the
information specific to your project.
• Master specifications can reduce the risk of elements from another project being left in the
current project that are not required for that project.
• Old favourites/ Previous project - this is a matter of using a specification written previously
for a project of similar size and type and performing a very careful edit and amending it for
the specifics of your current project.
• The main advantage in this is that it can be very time efficient, especially if the projects are
similar and can also allow for refinement from any lessons learnt from the previous project
e.g. re-writing a clause that required additional interpretation or was misinterpreted in the
previous project.

• The disadvantages include not allowing enough time to re-write an accurate and properly
customised specification based on the assumption that ‘it is already virtually written.’ This
can increase the risk of omission of information required for the current project and
overlooking inclusion of items specific to the previous project.
• Proprietary specifications - there are a variety of proprietary specifications available. The

most commonly used, and the specification required to be used by most State government
departments for their projects is NATSPEC. This specification uses the National
Classification System to organise the content into a logical and consistent order. It is
updated regularly to include new legislation and changes in technology.
Other standard forms of specification include SpecPack who produce specification packages for
architects, building designers and builders.
Proprietary specifications such as NATSPEC and office masters written by an established office are
very useful for the inexperienced writer. They are highly inclusive, well researched and based on
real experience of projects under construction.
For the inexperienced writer, the process of deleting clauses from a template that are not required
is easier than knowing which clauses need to be inserted. It is still useful for the inexperienced
writer to have supervision or at least a final check by a more experienced writer. It is important to
take care with altering clauses especially contractual clauses or those in Preliminaries. They will
have been developed over time in response to real situations and the inexperienced may not fully
understand the implications of such alterations.
Any specialist information and specifying should be written by specialist consultants. While an
experienced specifier may be able to write about simple mechanical ventilation systems, it is
critical that the specifier not overestimate their abilities and attempt to write beyond their training
and experience levels.
2.8 Specification worksections

Generally, a specification is divided into a section for each trade involved in the construction
process, known as work sections by NATSPEC. Depending on the complexity of the project a
specification may not require all trades. The initial assessment of a building project will determine
which trades are required for the project.

In preparation for writing a specification, it is necessary to examine the working drawings (which
will become the contract drawings) to determine which trades need to be included. Work through
the drawings to identify the types of work involved in the project e.g. are there bathrooms?
sanitary items? is a section required for the tiler?
2.4 Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD)

Specification
Writing a specification provides the opportunity to instigate positive measures for sustainability.
Issues such as building life cycle costs, indoor air quality, waste and water management, energy
efficiency, etc., can be covered by good specification writing.
The specifier can work within their ‘circle of influence’ and choose to specify products and
construction methods that reduce the environmental impact of the construction project both
during construction and throughout the lifetime of the building. Many of these decisions will have
been part of the building design process leading to final documentation.
Standard specifications such as NATSPEC can be used to implement specific principles of ESD.
NATSPEC provides options for specifiers to choose and adopt ESD principles and to meet
mandatory ESD requirements such as those incorporated in the NCC.
An ESD NATSPEC specification focuses on:
• Giving effect to ESD design decisions not shown on the drawings.
• Specifying ESD appropriate materials and methods of construction.
• Specifying components and products that permit the implementation of ESD.
2.5 Conducting a site inspection

If the specification writer hasn’t been involved in the project throughout design and
documentation, a site inspection is essential to confirm the site conditions and general layout and
to determine any site-specific building requirements. Site details and features should be recorded
in relation to implications for completing the project. Preliminary site-work requirements may also
be determined, and specific items noted for inclusion in the specification where required.

All information gathered on a site inspection should be kept in mind in the choice of specification
work sections and for the determination of specific details. A site inspection report or checklist
may be useful for the items to be included in the specification.
Building Information Modelling (BIM)

BIM or Building Information Modelling is increasingly being used in construction projects. It
involves multiple building professionals (architectural, engineering, construction management) to
collaborate on the planning, design, and construction of a building using one 3D, computerised
model. BIM used in the design and co-ordination of construction projects changes the way projects
can be visualised and managed from early in the design project to its completion.
BIM requires detailed information about materials, products, and construction methods to be
incorporated into the model. Accordingly, the integration of the BIM model and the project
specification detail must be carefully managed to maximise the benefits of this technology and to
avoid inconsistencies and conflicts.
A great advantage of BIM is that information from the model can be downloaded as schedules.
Amendments to one part of the BIM model are carried throughout the model leading to
consistency in the documentation.
2.6 Quality Assurance

Using a well-resourced specification framework such as NATSPEC for building project specifications
provides quality assurance to the specification process as a part of the organisational system.
NATSPEC addresses quality management systems in each work section where product quality,
quality control and quality assurance are covered. NATSPEC requires reports, tests, and default
tolerances for critical elements.

Topic 3: The Scope of Work

The Scope of the Work
The Specification will include all relevant detail necessary to describe the nature and scope
of works along with the prescriptive and performance requirements for the work.
The scope of work is the work to be performed as described in the project documents
including the specification, drawings, and other referenced documents. The scope of work
included in the specification should contain any project milestones, work schedules,
standards of work, deliverables, and end products that are expected to be provided by the
building contractor.
Project milestones are steps or stages within a project towards completion. Standards of
work refers to the quality of work required, often referenced to applicable Australian
Standards and work schedules are listings of work to be completed in particular areas of a
project and the details such as the materials or products required e.g. door and window
schedules.
3.1 Schedules
Schedules of work are listings of work to be completed in particular areas of a project and the
details such as the materials or products required e.g. Door and window schedules. Well detailed
schedules include a lot of information presented in a structured and accessible format. Schedules
provide a lot of information in a summarised and abbreviated format and can be easier to read
than a wordy text-based document.
Preparing the schedules also serves as a checklist in helping to prepare both specification and
working drawings. Examine all working drawings and other documents to determine which
schedules are required. As you work through standard schedules, you can also check whether
items have been included on the working drawings. It is important to ensure that the schedules
correlate or expand on information shown on the drawings.
Proprietary specifications generally include standard schedules (tables or lists). In NATSPEC

Domestic these are called Selection Schedules. Office master specifications will also have a series
of schedules.

As with selecting the work sections required for the specification, we select the schedules by
examining the drawings and determining what schedules will be required. Schedules may be
included within work sections or included in a separate section following the reference
specification.
NATSPEC Domestic covers the whole range of schedules. The formatted work sections are concise
and general or generic. Relevant Australian Standards are nominated, cross references to other
work sections provided, and materials and performance requirements described.
Typical schedule from NATSPEC DOMESTIC:

Strip flooring schedule (potentially for 3 types of strip flooring, A, B, C)
Table 1 Strip flooring
Code
Property
A B C
Species or group
Recycled
Profile
Fixing:
- Surface nailed
- Secret nailed
Size (width x thickness, mm)
Ends:
- Butt
- End joined T&G
Resilient mounts
- Product
- Manufacturer
Moisture content
Critical radiant flux

These schedules generally require filling in the spaces or box ticking. Table elements may be
removed if not applicable. This is relatively simple but requires careful consideration for accurate
project-specific information. The schedules must be tailored to the requirements of each individual
project. The schedules identify the selection of materials, colours, products, and equipment.
Joinery schedule example
Depending on the level of detail in the specification and the complexity of the project, joinery may
be listed in a schedule and referred to a detailed drawing, or details of proprietary joinery items
listed. Example below:
Table 2 details of proprietary joinery
Ref. No. Description Hardware Comments
Silestone® benchtop-
pencil round square
40 mm edge
Carcass- 18 mm Hinges as
white melamine specification, full
J01 – Bathroom ext. drawers Adjustable shelves
vanity Doors, drawers and
face panels c/s hoop Pulls- FHS
pine ply Brushed nickel
Kick-panel-
brushed
aluminium
Silestone® benchtop-
pencil round square
40mm edge Hinges as
Carcass- 18 mm specification
white melamine Adjustable shelves
Metal box
J02 – Laundry
Doors, drawers, and drawer units – Open shelves as
cupboard
face panels c/s hoop full ext. per drawings
pine ply Pulls- FHS
Kick-panel- Brushed nickel
brushed
aluminium

Door Schedule example
Door schedules can vary in detail to include all door hardware, e.g. hinge, hardware, lock and latch
types, or hardware may be scheduled separately. This door schedule has been simplified using a
key to describe frame and door leaf types. The door Mark refers to the door number cross
referenced in the drawings. In this sample Frame type C is a painted pressed metal frame, B is a
timber frame that would be clearly specified e.g. 19 mm Tas Oak with planted 12mm stop.
Table 3 Frame type
Mark Leaf width Frame type Door type Latch Handle Remarks
Complete with remote

opener
D1 5100 C F
Height 2400
Raven® RP2B brush

D2 1150 C G 312 seals to bottom & hinge
side
D3 820 B E 312 DS5
D4 820 B E 312 DS5
Door types are as follows:
Type A Vantage® Sliding Glass Door – 541 Series
Type B Vantage® Hinged Glass Door – 548 Series
Type C Vantage® Bi-fold Doors – 548 Series
Type D Vantage® Parliament Hinged Doors – 548 Series
Flush panel door. Facing shall be slice cut TasOak plywood. Provide hinge and
door furniture blocks to suit. Bathroom door to have block to suit robe hooks.
Type E
Unless otherwise indicated doors shall be 2040 high and 40 mm minimum
thickness.

Window Schedule example
Below is a typical window schedule. It is good practice to have a column for notes or
remarks to allow for specific details to individual window types.
Table 4 Window Schedule example
Frame width Frame ht Open

Mark (nom) (nom) Sill height sash Furniture Remarks
W1 3900 1200 1300 A winder
W2 850/600 2100 FL F -
W3 1800 2100 FL A winder
W4 300 1800 400 F -
W5 300 1800 400 F -
W6 1500 600 1600 A winder remote winder
A refers to Awning. F refers to Fixed.
Sanitary fixtures example

Table 5 Sanitary fixtures
Room Item Tech notes Supplied by
Ensuite Vanity basin Kohler® Presqu’ile with Owner

integrated handrail
Ensuite Vanity mixer Zuchetti® 3300 Owner

Tremilatracentro
Ensuite WC Suite Caroma® Leda 1200 P trap Builder

Electrical appliances example
Table 6 Electrical appliances
Room Item Specification Tech notes Supplied by
Kitchen Cooktop Baumatic® 770 mm BA16.2 Gas Builder
Kitchen Oven NEFF® 600 mm Oven B1544NO Electric Builder
Kitchen Dishwasher Dishwasher – AEG® 86050i Semi-integrated Builder
Kitchen Rangehood Qasair® Foldaway FA90-2T/B Builder
Anything that will read more clearly as a list or table can be scheduled. It may be that builders take
more notice of schedules or tables and items are more likely to be included than when possibly
lost in the wordiness of the main body of the specification.
Project program
Some other schedules outside the work sections refer to contractual obligations and, depending
on the contract type, will be listed in the Preliminaries section of the specification. A Project
program may schedule the sequence or stages of a project along a timeline towards completion.
Project milestone are aligned with completion of stages of the project and progress payments.
3.2 Cross referencing

All details are tabulated and cross-referenced to ensure consistency between the working
drawings other documents and the specification.
The requirements of the design brief such as functional requirements (e.g. how many bedrooms,
budget, total floor area) and qualitative objectives (eg spacious, sunny dining room connected to
outdoor deck) would have been checked off at the completion of the design process and before a
project proceeds to documentation. Sometimes design brief requirements may be described in

room datasheets. This should be checked at the completion of the design process and may also be
checked in the specification preparation. Below is a sample blank room datasheet for a house.
Residential room datasheet

Date:
Project Name:
Project
Number: Room
Name:
Table 7 Residential room datasheet
Data/Notes
Preferred level or location
Purpose/use
Number of persons occupying
Time/hours of use
Preferred aspect
Glazing/sunlight penetration
Ventilation
Relationship to other rooms
Special equipment/provisions
Specifiable furniture
Internal materials
Internal finish
Ceiling height
Lighting
Heating/cooling
Communication
Data
Water supply
Acoustics
Fire protection
Security
Special features

Room data sheets and checklists make it simple to check the specification against all aspects
included in the briefing documents. Items that may be listed on Room Datasheets may not
be documented clearly in the drawings but can be easily and clearly included in the
specification.
3.3 Level of Detail

Level of detail contained in the specification (or edited version) will facilitate clarity of
intent and conformation to industry codes of practice, Australian Standards, and
relevant statutory requirements.
The specification provides the opportunity to draw the builder’s and sub-
contractor’s attention to any relevant Codes of Practice, Australian Standards,
and any other relevant statutory requirements.
In an abbreviated Specification or in the Specification notes this may simply be a

general or inclusive clause such as:
“Comply with the NCC, Australian Standards and Council requirements. Give all
notices, payall fees.
Organise and comply with all necessary regulatory inspections.”
While this is a reasonable request, it does assume the builder has access to and
knowledgeof all of the codes and regulations. A good builder will know and
understand the National Construction Code and the most commonly used Australian
Standards such as those for plumbing and glazing.
If there is anything specific or unusual to your project, it is only fair and reasonable
that youdraw the builder’s attention to it and provide sufficient information for them
to carry out the requirements.
3.4 Manufacturers’ recommendations

Many manufacturers and suppliers will not provide warranty for their product unless it is
installed in accordance with their recommendations and guidelines. Any issues in relation to
warranties should be included in the General requirements section.
If specific information is available, it can be included into the specification, but reference
should be made to checking manufacturer’s recommendations or instructions as
recommendations may have changed. If uncertain about installation methods check
websites for information or contact the manufacturers or suppliers.

Topic 4: Contract and
Preliminaries

4.1 Contract documents
The specification must name the standard form of contract to be used. It may be a standard
contract developed by the AIA (Australian Institute of Architects), MBA (Master Builders
Association) or the NSW Office of Fair Trading. Contracts for construction projects are
generally between an owner and a builder or principal contractor and may be administered
by an independent third party such as a superintendent, architect or building designer.
The specification must refer to the contract for the building project which clearly identifies
the contractual rights and obligations of parties to the contract. The specification must
provide details consistent with the contract.
The specification is a legal document as a part of the contract documents. The specification,
drawings, and other referenced documents as well as the conditions of the contract form
the contract documents
Contract documents include, in hierarchical order:
• The contract conditions.
• The specification.
• Architectural drawings.
• Other documents listed in the contract, including schedules.
The specification must identify the contract to be used (including any amendments that have
been made to it). The contract will generally be a proprietary contract such as the contracts
developed and used by the AIA (Australian Institute of Architects), the MBA (Master
Builders), HIA (Housing Industry Association), NSW Office of Fair Trading or a contract drawn
up specifically by solicitors for your project.
The specification should draw attention to conditions of the contract that are particular to
the project. This may be done in the Preliminaries section which covers project specific
information outside the work sections. The object of the specification is not to repeat
clauses from the contract, but to note these conditions to inform the contractor of the
nature of the project.
Tender prices will include an allowance for preliminaries. In broad terms, these are the costs
not particularly tied to items of work but to the general costs of building and contractual
obligations. It includes the builders’ administrative costs, which will vary depending on the
demands made by the form of contract, such as the costs of retention funds, etc.

4.2 Tenders
If the project is to be tendered, the specification may identify the official tender form
required and what is to be included in the tender. The tender information and documents
may also be separate from the specification. NATSPEC Basic and NATSPEC Domestic include
a section on tendering, 0121 Tendering. This section generally includes details of the
conditions of tendering, tender documents, and a tender form.
4. 3 Site access
The Preliminaries section (or Tendering section if included) would give a brief description of
the site and describe any builder’s limitations or responsibilities regarding the site. This may
include restricted areas, defining the builder’s area, trees, and vegetation to be protected
etc. Legal possession of the site and the conditions of this responsibility should be described
in the Preliminaries section, consistent with the contract.
4.4 Permits and fees

This section will set out the status of approvals or relevant applications required by
legislation and identify specific conditions of consent. Responsibilities should be nominated
regarding utilities and services and who is to organise connection, relevant permits, and
payment of fees.
4.5 Sub-contractors
The contract for the complete works is generally between the owner and the principal
contractor or builder and is signed by both parties. The prime contractor holds the overview,
is legally and financially responsible for the whole project and co-ordinates the works but
will sub-contract relevant parts of the works as required, e.g. plumber, tiler, plasterer.
It is likely the prime contractor will only provide specific work sections to each trade. For
example, the plumber is likely to only be provided with the Plumbing and Drainage section
but there may be relevant information in other sections such as Electrical Services. It is
therefore useful for the specifier to cross reference to requirements in other sections. The
preparation of a substrate such as structural steel may be the role of the painter or the
metalworker.

An architect, building designer or client may have a specific sub-contractor who is named in
the contract to carry out part of the building work e.g. custom-built joinery or artwork. The
specification must schedule the nominated sub-contractor in relation to the specific work in
accordance with the contract.
4.6 Services
The builder or principal contractor must provide adequate services for workers on the site.
For existing houses to be extended or altered, the services such as use of the existing toilet
or access to the existing water and power supply may be arranged by prior agreement with
the owners and the specification will set out the contractual conditions for the arrangement
in the Preliminaries section. Any point of supply, connection, disconnection, and
maintenance requirements should be identified.
4.7 Insurance
The specification and contract will define who is responsible for insurance, whether it is the
owner, the builder or both. Be careful not to provide advice about insurance and suggest
that professional advice is sought.
Mandatory insurances may include home warranty insurance (called the home building
compensation fund (HBCF) in NSW, domestic building insurance (DBI) in Victoria, home
indemnity insurance in WA, etc.) and Worker’s Compensation insurance. If other insurances
are required under the contract, they should be specified. These may include Contract
Works Insurance, Public Liability Insurance and Property insurance.
4.8 Program of Works

The program of works is useful to both the builder and owner in assisting contractual
obligations and establishing project milestones. If the owner is to provide items or
information to the builder such as light fixtures, the program sets these out. Some contracts
such as the AIA suite of contracts have contractual clauses requiring a program. The
program will set down stages of work and when progress payments are to be made.

4.9 Testing
The trade sections may require testing of materials, samples and evidence of satisfactory
testing and compliance of products. The Preliminaries section of the specification identifies
procedures for testing, approvals, warranties and certification for materials, products, and
methods of construction for NCC evidence of suitability.
4.10 Provisional Sums

Provisional sums are an allowance for an item that may not be easily priced accurately at the
time of contract signing. An allowance is included in the contract sum to cover an
approximation of potential costs. If the actual price varies, it is adjusted accordingly during
the contract period.
These items and the sum allowed are included in the contract and specification, usually in a
simple table format as below.
e.g. Provisional Sums

Table 8 e.g. Provisional Sums
Sum allowed Description
$3500.00 Rock during excavation
$5000.00 Driveway
4.11 Prime cost items

There may be items to be included in the contract sum, but a selection is yet to be made on
specific details such as a specific brand or type. Prime cost items are for specific items that
can are accurately priced for inclusion in the contract sum. Prime cost items (PC items) do
not include labour costs. e.g. SCHEDULE 7- Prime Cost Items
Table 9 Prime Cost Items
Sum allowed Description
$1800.00 Front door
$80 /m2 Carpet and underlay
$60 / m2 Ceramic tiles

Topic 5: Preparing a specification
document

5.1 Preparing the specification document
We have looked at the work sections required for your specification. We have set up the
schedules, outlined contractual obligations and written the Preliminaries or General section.
Now we can look at the main text or body of the specification.
• The specification needs to provide enough information to allow the builder to

interpret the information, and to price and build the project. It must be clear and
concise to become a useable document that is easily read. An overly wordy
specification is likely to risk valuable information being lost amongst the excessive
text.
• The specification must be clear and concise. The interpretation must be exact. There
must be no ambiguity which may result in misinterpretation of the requirements or
substitution with a lesser quality item.
• The specification must be thorough in covering the extent and details of the building
project.
• Use simple and clear language. Avoid long descriptions and flowery language. Use
simple, short phrases and if possible, avoid legal phrases and overly formal language.
• Draw attention clearly to unusual or non-standard provisions.
• If using commonly known abbreviations these should be defined.
• Give direct instructions and use imperative language to ensure that the meaning of
the instruction is specific, e.g. “use”, “install”, “provide”. Avoid complex sentences
that give several directions. Try to confine each sentence to one idea or direction
• Use consistent terms consistent with terms used on the drawings throughout the
specification. For example, do not specify ‘vapour barrier’ if the drawings refer to
‘sarking’. Remember the specification and drawings are to be read together as a set.
If a room is called “Foyer” on the drawings, do not refer to it as “Entry” in the
Specification.
• Unnecessary repetition is to be avoided to minimise conflicting information and the

possibility of inconsistent information. Use cross-referencing rather than repetition
to co-ordinate work between trades.
• Avoid using terms such as “or equal”, “and/or” and “similar approved”. The
specification is for defining quality and these terms are open to interpretation and
provide opportunity for compromise. If you need to allow choice, specify the quality
and performance requirements.

• When cross referencing between drawings and specification, be precise. Rather than
stating in the specification “as detailed”, state “See Detail number. /sheet or drawing
number”
• Do not use long clauses. Break into sub-clauses, paragraphs, and sub-paragraphs.
Remember to communicate only one idea or item per clause. Write the sub-clauses
in a logical hierarchy and use sub-titles, numbers, or bullet points to keep the
expression clear.
• Avoid qualitative expressions such as ‘best quality’, ‘sufficient’, ‘adequate’.

Specification requirements must be quantifiable, measurable, and clearly defined.
Generally, drawings should only use key words, which can then be defined and described in
greater detail in the Specification. For example, drawings may simply say ‘timber cladding’
but the specification will describe the brand, quality, thickness, installation methods and
performance requirements. Specify standard components or materials using references to
accepted standards. Be specific about the work to be completed and the expectations about
quality and standards.
5.2 Co-ordination with drawings

The specification document should be completed and checked for conformity and errors.
Ideally the working drawings and the specification are worked up simultaneously. The working
drawings need to be completed to a sufficient level so that an overview of the building is
achieved but then the documents are completed together.
If not completed by the same person, it is important that those completing the working
drawings and the specificationwriter communicate and do not work in isolation. Remember
that both documents are read together as a set.
5.4 Setting Out

The project information in a specification must be arranged in a logical format so it is easy to
find. The specification is divided into a section for each trade involved in the construction
process, known as work section in NATSPEC.
In broad terms, a specification is written in the order of construction. The first sections are
about preliminary considerations before construction can commence. The first work
sections related to building trades are usually Groundworks or Demolition, followed by the
sections about the building structure such as Concreting, Timber and Steel Framing etc. Then

follows the cladding and lining sections and the other sections that take the building to ‘lock-
up’, finishing, fixtures, services, and external works such as landscaping.
Within each section the clauses are ideally arranged in a similar order usually from general
to more specific requirements. The first clauses are about general requirements and
workmanship. The extent of work for that section is described. Any regulations or Australian
Standards that must be adhered to are referenced.
In the NATSPEC system, each work section is divided into four parts: General, Products,
Execution, and Selections. ‘General’ includes the clauses that apply to the work section as a
whole, such as responsibilities, tolerances, Standards, and interpretation.
5.4 Cross referencing

Cross referencing to other sections is usually in the introduction of each section. This notifies
the builder or sub-contractor about works that may need to be co-ordinated with another
sub-contractor or references to their trade that may be in another section of the
specification.
Cross referencing is very important for both accuracy and consistency in the specification
and working drawings. All door numbers, window numbers, joinery numbers and any item
that is scheduled must be cross-checked several times during the project. Generally, the
numbers are allocated on the drawings and then scheduled in the specification.
While master specifications and proprietary specifications are convenient templates, it is still
important to take great care and to carefully edit the document. Several drafts will be
required to provide an accurate and comprehensive specification. The most important check
is just before the final documents are signed off. The specification writer and the building
designer or architect (if not the same person) will discuss any changes and cross referencing
between drawings and other documents.
The specification writer must complete a final cross-check of the drawings against the
specification for any last-minute amendments that may have taken place on the drawings so
that all documents are consistent.

5.5 Version control
Keep notes of changes in either the drawings or specification if they are not happening
simultaneously to maximise communication and minimise inconsistencies. When major
changes are made or at definable stages of the project, a revision or version number should
be assigned to the relevant documentation (be that a specification, a drawing, or another
document).
The revision number can appear in the document naming system such as in the footer on a
specification document. A version history table with a date and a short description of the
changes made is useful, particularly on large or complex projects. This ensures that the
latest version with up-to-date changes is identifiable and is not confused with a superseded
version.
5.6 Presenting the Specification

The specification is a document requiring the presentation of clear and accurate information
for the building project and its presentation reflects on your office and your level of
professionalism. The specification is part of the documents for the building contract.
Title page
The title page will include:
• Client or project name.
• Project address.
• Project number or office reference.
• Brief project description - e.g. of works to be done and materials to be used in the
construction of a new house and garage.
• Date.
It is also likely to include the name, logo and contact details of the design office that
produced the specification. Think about the presentation of the title page - how the graphics
and headings are set out.

Think about how the specification will be used as a part of the tender documents, contract
documents, construction approval documents and on the building site.
The specification must be accessible on the construction site. It will be referred to

throughout the project by numerous parties involved in the construction.
Contents Page
A table of contents should be included, listing the chapter or section heading with a
corresponding page number. An index can be used in larger specifications. It is useful to
think about how the specification will be used for reference throughout a project and the
ability to quickly and easily find the appropriate clause will be important. Page number,
section name and then clause number is the simplest communication.
Formatting
Formatting enables a legible and presentable document. NATSPEC and master specifications
are likely to be pre-formatted. Think again about how the specification will be used once it
leaves your office and who is likely to be using it. The specification must be easily referred
to. It must be simple. A simple numbering system will assist everyone to find the relevant
clause more readily.
If you are writing from scratch or editing a previous specification it is important to think
about formatting aspects such as:
• Headings - size, font, text style, etc.
• Headings - chapters, sub-sections and clauses should be numbered. The more

complex the project and specification, the more the sections should be broken down
and numbered.
• A clear font for the whole document. Use an appropriate font.
• Headers and footers. Headers generally contain the section or chapter name and
page number. Footers may include your business name or the project name and
document version numbers.
• Page numbers- at the top or the bottom of the page.

Grammar and spell-check
Accurate grammar and spelling is a professional requirement for all documents including
specifications. A professional specification must be checked for grammar and spelling, even
using your software spellcheck. It is likely that most of the sentences are ‘fragmented’ as
that is the nature of specification writing, but there should not be other general grammatical
errors.
Clearly a specification is not a thrown together document written in a few hours. It is an

important contract document, that if poorly prepared can have a significant effect on the
building project.
5.7 NATSPEC
The National Classification System that is used in NATSPEC specifications classifies and
sequences work sections, some of which are trade-based and some of which follow
processes. These are numbered and ordered into a logical sequence that generally follows
the progression of a construction project.
NATSPEC uses a template where the writer deletes the clauses and sections not required
and fills in the blanks with the items and information specific to their project. There are a
number of NATSPEC specification templates or packages available depending on the size and
nature of the project.
Packages include: BUILDING- Professional, Basic, Domestic, Landscape, Structure, and

Interior as well as small l project specifications suitable for homeowner-builders: SIMPLE-
domestic. Products are available online and by subscription for regular updates.
NATSPEC Specifications are very comprehensive, have been developed over time, and
include most possibilities that could occur during construction. It is updated regularly in line
with the NCC providing the most current information which might be omitted from an office
master specification. It is a nationally accepted and understood document and has been
developed by industry professionals. It can be a useful tool to start writing specifications and
can be adapted for specific design offices and/or projects.
This will focus primarily on NATSPEC Domestic and sample document, NATSPEC Domestic
for students. The NATSPEC Domestic template is written specifically for domestic
construction and does not contain the detail and specialised sections required for larger or
commercial buildings for which NATSPEC Basic or NATSPEC Professional would be more
suitable. Larger packages such as BUILDING Professional can include vast amounts of

information to be filtered and produces a very large document which may or may not be
appropriate depending on the size and complexity of the project.
NATSPEC Domestic is used for residential construction, Class 1a and Class 10 of the National
Construction Code, i.e. single dwellings such as houses, villa units or townhouses, and
associated small structures. It describes common construction practice and may need to be
supplemented in areas subject to high winds, snow, earthquakes, bushfire and/or marine
exposure to comply with the National Construction Code. In some areas, there will be local
techniques or statutory requirements which will take precedence.
The Australian Standards used are those which are referenced in the National Construction
Code and are relevant to domestic work; have other statutory application; are important to
the quality of materials and work in terms of public safety and long-term performance of the
building; and/or are widely accepted in the building industry.
In the following table is the list of chapters or sections in NATSPEC Domestic. These are
relatively general and usually divided into single trades or building materials.
NATSPEC Domestic work sections:
Table 10 Domestic work sections
NATSPEC Domestic work sections
0121 Tender form 0331 Brick and 0572 Miscellaneous

blockconstruction appliances andfixtures
0131 Preliminaries 0342 Light steel framing 0611 Rendering and plastering
0171 General requirements 0382 Light timber framing 0612 Cementitious toppings
0184 Termite management 0383 Sheet flooring 0621 Waterproofing – wet

anddecking areas
0201 Demolition 0411 Waterproofing 0631 Ceramic tiles
0221 Site management 0421 Roofing 0651 Resilient finishes
0222 Earthwork 0431 Cladding 0652 Carpets
0223 Service trenching 0451 Windows and 0654 Engineered panel floors
glazeddoors
0241 Landscape – walling 0453 Doors and 0655 Timber flooring

andedging accesspanels
0242 Landscape – fences 0454 Overhead doors 0656 Floor sanding and
andbarriers finishing

NATSPEC Domestic work sections
0250 Landscape – gardening 0455 Door hardware 0671 Painting
0271 Pavement base and 0702 Mechanical design and

0467 Glass components
sub-base install
0274 Concrete pavement 0471 Thermal 0802 Hydraulic design and

insulationand sarking install
membranes
0276 Segmental pavers – 0511 Lining 0902 Electrical design and
sandbed install
0310 Concrete 0551 Joinery
Note the numbering of the sections in the table above, which follow the National
Classification System. You can view the full classification list at National Classification_
List.
In NATSPEC, the work sections all have a standard format. They are divided into four
parts as follows:
• GENERAL – this part addresses issues which apply to the work section as a whole
such as standards, responsibilities, tolerances, inspection.
• PRODUCTS – the basic materials, components and other items are listed here.
• EXECUTION – this part sets out the performance criteria for carrying out the works.
• SELECTIONS – this part is where the schedules are to be found that specify products
or the properties required of products required for the job.
NATSPEC Basic and NATSPEC Professional work sections are more comprehensive than
NATSPEC Domestic and the sections are split into more sub-sections or even separated into
specific individual sections/chapters. For example, whereas NATSPEC Domestic has a section
simply called Concrete (0310) which includes a brief description of the various concrete
components, NATSPEC Professional has separate sections for concrete formwork,
reinforcement, post-tensioned concrete, concrete in situ, concrete finishes, pre-cast
concrete, tilt-up concrete and shotcrete.
Specialist sections that are to be written by other consultants are determined at the
beginning of the project when the fees, drawings and documentation schedules are being
developed. The primary consultant, which may be the architect or building designer, will
liaise with the other consultants about documentation requirements, who will be writing
specific sections and the form of specification to be used. For example, if the primary

consultant is using a proprietary NATSPEC specification, then all other contributors should
use the same template, so the specification reads consistently and professionally.
Typical sections that may be written by other specialists include:
• Mechanical Services Section – by a mechanical engineer.
• Electrical Services Section – by an electrical engineer.
• Lighting Section - by a lighting specialist.
• Communications – by a communications specialist.
It is generally only for more complex projects that specialist consultants write
sections of the specification. On simpler projects, the specialist consultants may
simply input specific clauses or check clauses within the specification. For single
residential projects this is likely to include such items as the structural engineer
specifying lintels and beams to be included in the Structural timber or structural
steelwork sections. Alternatively, the specification would refer to the structural
engineer’s documentation which may include drawings and specification notes.
References
Specification Writing, NATSPEC Paper, October 2019
(https://www.natspec.com.au/images/PDF/Specification_Writing_Paper.pdf)
Sample specifications
https://dipl.nt.gov.au/ data/assets/pdf_file/0009/387981/std-spec-sml-bldg-
works-2017.pdf
Building Designers Association general building specification:
https://propertydevelopment.ssc.nsw.gov.au/PublicEPropertyPDF/DA181066%20Gen
eral% 20Building%20Specifications%20-%20[A5463689].pdf
https://www.dha.gov.au/partnering/development-and-construction/building-
specifications
Image attributions
Title Page Creator Licence Modified/By
Cover image – 1 © Getty Images N/A

506821756 Geber86 copied under licence


Student Workbook: CPCCBC4015 Prepare Specifications For All Construction Works

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© TAFE NSW 2021

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Residential - Class 1 and 10 buildings, maximum two storeys; and

Commercial - Class 2 to 9, Type C only constructions.

Alright, let’s get started!

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A specification has three main purposes, as a:

2. Working Document- the specification provides detailed information for the

Contract documents include, in hierarchical order:

• The contract conditions.

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2.1The importance of thorough and accurate

2.3 Essential information

The type of specification and level of detail is determined by a number of factors:

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• Tender method - a specification for a competitive tender with a number of builders

2.4 Legislative requirements

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2.5 Australian Standards and quality of work

2.6 Codes of Practice

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• Information, instruction, and training.

2.7 Standard and project-specific requirements

Specifications can be developed from a variety of sources.

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• Proprietary specifications - there are a variety of proprietary specifications available. The

2.8 Specification worksections

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2.4 Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD)

An ESD NATSPEC specification focuses on:

• Giving effect to ESD design decisions not shown on the drawings.

• Specifying ESD appropriate materials and methods of construction.

• Specifying components and products that permit the implementation of ESD.

2.5 Conducting a site inspection

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Building Information Modelling (BIM)

2.6 Quality Assurance

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Proprietary specifications generally include standard schedules (tables or lists). In NATSPEC

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Typical schedule from NATSPEC DOMESTIC:

Table 1 Strip flooring

Size (width x thickness, mm)

Critical radiant flux

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Joinery schedule example

Table 2 details of proprietary joinery

Ref. No. Description Hardware Comments

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Table 3 Frame type

Complete with remote