024 - Architectural Specification Writing: 10 Common Errors

Architectural specification writing is one of the most important skills in practice, and one of the least taught. In this episode, Emily shares the 10 most common specification writing errors architects make throughout their careers, along with practical solutions for each one.

Every mistake on this list has real consequences: RFIs, change orders, field failures, and liability exposure. Whether you're a working architect or studying for the ARE, understanding how to write and coordinate specs correctly is a skill that pays off on every project.

📝 Key topics covered:

• Why specs are legal contract documents, not boilerplate paperwork

• The coordination gap between drawings and specifications

• How vague language like "high quality" and "as required" creates disputes

• Why copy-pasting manufacturer specs without editing is a liability

• How to write execution sections that actually prevent field failures

⏱️ Chapters:

(0:00) Why Architectural Specification Writing Matters

(2:42) Mistake #1: Poor Coordination Between Drawings and Specs

(7:46) Mistake #2: Vague and Ambiguous Specification Language

(10:10) Mistake #3: Copy-Pasting Manufacturer Specs Without Editing

(12:54) Mistake #4: Ignoring Site-Specific Conditions

(15:01) Mistake #5: Using Outdated Master Specifications

(17:39) Mistake #6: Poor Coordination With Other Design Disciplines

(19:29) Mistake #7: Weak Execution Sections (Installation Details)

(22:18) Mistake #8: Unclear Substitution and Alternate Criteria

(25:03) Mistake #9: Communication Breakdowns Between Office and Field

(27:24) Mistake #10: Mis-Specifying Sustainable Materials and Systems

(30:03) How to Build Better Specification Writing Skills

📖 Read the full blog post

📝 Download the FREE Specification Writing Errors study notes

🎯 Get access to all ARE study materials with the ARE 101 Membership

🎯 Join our 10-week ARE Boot Camp

📚 Individual ARE and CSI Certification Courses:

• CDT 101 (Construction Documents Technologist)

• CCCA 101 (Construction Contract Administration)

• PDD 101 (Construction Documents and Specs)

• PjM 101 (Project Management)

• CE 101 (Construction and Evaluation)

• PPD 101 (Project Planning and Design)

• Building Codes 101

• PcM 101 (Practice Management)

• PA 101 (Programming and Analysis)

• AIA Contracts 101

• Mechanical Systems 101