Specification Writing

Home » Services » Specification Writing

The Importance of Specifications

Specifications are equally if not more important than working drawings and schedules. Subcontractors routinely refer to specifications before the bidding stage. Unfortunately, architectural firms today provide specifications only if the client asks for it.

Sometimes, the importance of specifications becomes apparent to stakeholders only after a legal issue arises, inevitably causing them reputational damage. Moreover, architectural firms that treat specifications as an “addendum” tend to attract contractors seeking to exploit discrepancies between drawings and specifications for their financial gain.

All of this makes it imperative to involve a competent specifications writer when you’re halfway through your working drawings. Early involvement from our specifications writer and coordination between specifications and construction drawings prevents ambiguity, confusion, delays, and misunderstandings during the project.

building with proper ADA Designs in California
hotel ADA compliant in California
building needing an ADA Plan Review in California

Accessibility Begins at the Top. It is Everyone’s Responsibility.

In the early stages of the project, the role of designers and architects in ensuring compliance with applicable accessibility standards is paramount. The specifications writer and a qualified accessibility expert who provides plan reviews can convert designs into well-built, accessible structures.

Our Specifications Writer is Knowledgeable and Experienced

As specifications take precedence over other construction documents, you need a qualified professional by your side. Our engineering specialist has a broad knowledge of the technical aspects of the job, exercises good judgment, and communicates information concisely and clearly in written form. His knowledge of sustainability and LEED requirements is useful for all modern constructions.

We have considerable field experience and present an accurate picture to the contractor. As our specifications writer is an efficient organizer and time manager, we can promise to complete the task within reasonable deadlines.

Error-Free Specifications that Offer Precise Information

The construction specifications we prepare are reviewed for language and punctuation to ensure there is no room for ambiguity. Quality is defined precisely, legal terms and phrases are avoided, and both consistency and brevity are evident in all documents.
The specifications will have the following information:
Descriptions and procedures for unit prices, allowances, product alternatives, and options in the contract.
Type and quality of products.
List of acceptable manufacturers.
Quality assurance of materials, fabrication, and installation.
Referenced codes and standards.
Applicable codes, standards, and other regulatory requirements.
Requirements for fabrication, erection, application, installation, and finishing.
Acceptable tolerance and deflection requirements.
Our specification writer determines the most suitable method for writing the specifications for your project. It may include some or all of these methods: reference, performance, descriptive, and prescriptive/proprietary.

Compliance with the Local Code Does Not Imply Compliance with ADA

The success of a project depends on clear communication between parties and access to information everyone needs, to carry out their roles effectively. Architects and designers who understand the impact of accessible design and construction on guests, pay attention to the details that matter. They are aware that compliance with the requirements of the local building code and its accessibility standards is insufficient to meet the ADA requirements. Both need to be considered separately, and this should reflect in the design thinking and drawings.

In the early stages of the project, designers must understand “what” needs to be accessible before they determine the technical requirements stating “how” they can be met. Drawings and specifications are complementary and convey the architect’s intent and the owner’s expectations to the contractor. The decisions taken at the commencement of the project have a bearing on how the contractor and subcontractors will figure out and work per the expectations.

Our plan review service brings insights that can help you achieve your design accessibility goals. Along with our specifications writing service, it can be invaluable in making critical considerations that lead to a better outcome for all stakeholders.

Contact Us

GET IN TOUCH