In Plain English
Quick Answer
The written document defining the quality standards, materials, and methods required for all work on a project.
Definition
Definition
A specifications document is the formal written technical document that describes the required materials, products, standards, and quality of workmanship for each element of a construction project. Construction specifications are organized using CSI MasterFormat divisions and sections. They supplement the drawings by providing information that cannot be shown graphically.
Context
Why It Matters in Bidding
The specifications document, or project manual, is where bidding instructions, general conditions, and technical sections live, so it sets both the commercial terms and the quality bar for the entire bid. Estimators rely on it to assign scope to subs, identify owner-furnished items, and catch requirements like allowances, alternates, and unit prices that must appear on the bid form.
Example
Example
Before sending invitations to bid, the estimator splits the specifications document by MasterFormat division and emails each trade only the sections that apply, ensuring the electrical sub sees Division 26 while the concrete sub gets Division 03.
See Also
Related Terms
FAQ
Questions Contractors Ask
What is included in a project manual versus the specs?
A project manual is the bound set that contains the bidding requirements, contract forms, general and supplementary conditions, and the technical specification sections. The technical specs are one part of it. Estimators read the front-end documents for commercial terms like bid bonds and the technical sections for material and labor cost drivers.
Where do allowances and alternates appear in the specs?
Allowances and alternates are usually defined in Division 01 General Requirements and echoed on the bid form. Estimators must carry allowance amounts exactly as written and price each alternate separately, since the owner may select alternates at award and a missed one can make a bid appear non-responsive.
How do addenda change the specifications document?
Addenda issued during bidding formally revise the specs and drawings and become contract documents on award. Bidders should acknowledge every addendum on the bid form; failing to do so, or pricing a superseded spec section, can get a bid rejected as non-responsive even if the number was competitive.
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