Until comprehensive written specifications documents are developed, there is no basis for establishing a scope of work, or a contract price. The key elements of the Project Technical Specifications are a detailed description of every product to be installed, and the installation method. The proper method for soliciting bids for any construction is to prepare detailed and comprehensive Project Specifications. When property owners or architects eliminate comprehensive technical specifications, the contractor is allowed to interpret the needs of the owner. If several bids are required for the project, the absence of specifications makes it impossible to receive legitimate competitive bids.
Specifications are the road map for any construction project.
They are the requirements which clearly spell out the responsibilities of the Property Owner, the Contractor, or the Architect, during the construction process. And they are an explicit description of the terms and conditions of payment, guarantees, conduct of the work force, acceptable work hours, insurance requirements, storing of tools and products to be installed, and clean-up. If workmanship and material standards are clearly specified, there is never a justification for owners withholding payments.