How do you use these specifications?
When engaging in residential house construction, trade specifications play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of the project.
These detailed documents are typically employed at the initial planning stages, providing a clear roadmap for builders, contractors, and stakeholders.
They specify the precise materials, standards, and methods to be employed throughout the construction process, ensuring that every aspect aligns with industry regulations and project requirements.
In essence, trade specifications serve as the cornerstone for seamless coordination, quality assurance, and efficient project management in the realm of residential construction.
The version of trade specifications supplied below are not overly complicated. This is deliberately done to act as a stepping stone for implementing trade specifications to a building process. For more detailed trade specifications, we highly recommend NATSPEC products.
To see which work packages are included in the different NATSPEC products, click on the link below to view the National Worksection Matrix.
Updates to this section
11-12-2023 We have updated all the linked documents to .DOC file format so you can easily download them and customise the details to suit your project.
We have now incorporated a standard clause at the start of each specification. While it might be expected that subcontractors are aware of and comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and the relevant standards for their trade, experience has shown that some rely solely on the instructions provided. In some cases, subcontractors have used our specifications to justify non-compliance, arguing that they were simply following our directives, despite their primary obligation to adhere to the NCC and referenced standards. To address this issue, we have clarified in the clause that our specifications represent only the minimum standard. All work, products, or services must still comply with the NCC and industry best practices.
It is essential for trade contractors to have a thorough understanding of their craft and the standards required to deliver their services professionally and skillfully.
However, the reality often is that many are not fully aware of the Australian Standards applicable to their work, opting instead for the quickest methods to expedite payment and move to the next job.
Future Website Section - Detailed Trade Specifications
We will also be adding a Detailed Trade Specification in the near future. These will include DOC file format. Each of the specifications we will include in this section is what is generally used in commercial construction under a commercial building head contract and subcontract.
There is no reason why this detailed trade specification/work package can not be used in residential construction subcontracts. The purpose of using detailed specifications is to make clear the acceptable work standards for each project.