#Residential blueprint standard notes windows#

The owner uses the specifications to determine his or her part in the contract, and to verify the things s/he specifically wants in the finished building. Then the “rough” and “finish” work are described for each trade. The first section usually describes the demolition, site clearance, or excavation procedures, depending on which of these would best fit the particular job. The guarantees of completion, performance, and quality of work are described in precise detail.įollowing the general conditions section, the specs are usually written in the same sequence in which the various trades will commence their work on the project. The responsibilities of the architect, contractor and subcontractors are outlined. The specifications include the general conditions, which are the broad provisions of the contract between the owner and contractor. They are usually presented in a booklet or notebook (or several large volumes for large projects), which cover a number of subjects in comprehensive detail. Even the simplest type of construction project should have specs.

Specs supplement the plans with detailed, technical information about the work to be done.

But if a conflict exists between them, the specs will govern, so the inspector should obtain the proper answer from the specs. The plans and specs should be in agreement. The specs will provide the materials and dimensions, along with other relevant details.

#Residential blueprint standard notes windows#

For example, if the plans call for egress windows and fire doors, this information will give the inspector a heads-up as to their locations. Although it is up to the building official to determine whether a building is meeting its planned specifications during and after construction, it is useful for the commercial building inspector to be acquainted with a building’s plans and specs so that s/he can observe and inspect, where appropriate, the various intended features of the building. The specs, including any sketches and working drawings, along with the written contract, become the basis for agreement between the owner and the contractor.Ī set of plans and specifications must be prepared for each building so that the contractor can complete the project accordingly. Specs usually include the scope of the work to be done, a description of the exact type and grade of equipment, materials and fixtures to be used, the method and level of workmanship required by each trade, and guarantees of completion. Whatever is not described fully in the specifications should be shown clearly on the plans. The specifications should describe anything that is not shown on the plans. The specs, which are often considered more important than the plans, describe every step of construction. Detailed descriptions of the materials and methods to be used are written in the specs. Only information that can be shown graphically is presented on the plans. Nothing should be changed without the approval of the architect and building official. The set of plans and specifications is the “bible” of the construction trade. And although the plans may be complete in every respect, many details, such as the materials to be used and the standards of workmanship desired, cannot be conveniently shown on the plans, so they are usually described only in the specifications, also referred to as “specs.” Collectively, the plans and specs, along with any other supplemental information and drawings, are known as the construction documents. Blueprints, known generically as 'plans,' show the construction details of a completed structure.