A structural specification states project requirements for materials, execution, submittals, and quality controls related to structural work.
Definition
A structural specification is a written requirement for structural work that supplements drawings and other contract documents. It may address materials, execution, submittals, quality controls, testing, or documentation. The specification should align with design criteria, details, and responsibilities assigned under the project delivery method. Firms differ in how much detail they place in specifications versus drawings or referenced standards, so owners should confirm that the documents work together and define a usable scope. Specifications can help communicate the design team’s requirements, but they do not replace the drawings, the contractor’s means and methods, or field inspection unless those roles are expressly assigned. Contradictions or unclear submittal requirements can create coordination questions. For firm owners, coordinated specifications support consistent deliverables and make review responsibilities easier to identify. Project-specific requirements and applicable standards determine the actual content.
How owners use it
- Coordinate specification sections with structural drawings, design criteria, and related discipline documents.
- State which submittals and quality records are required and who reviews or accepts them.
- Example: 5 structural specification sections reviewed + 2 cross-discipline sections = 7 sections checked for coordination.
- Track specification revisions with drawing changes so the contract documents remain aligned.
