• Our Office recommends that technical specifications be listed in the CSI (Construction Specifications Institute)  format.
   
   Division 1 — General Requirements
   Division 2 — Site Construction
   Division 3 — Concrete
   Division 4 — Masonry
   Division 5 — Metals
   Division 6 — Wood and Plastics
   Division 7 —Thermal and Moisture Protection
   Division 8 — Doors and Windows
   Division 9 — Finishes
   Division 10 — Specialties
   Division 11 — Equipment
   Division 12 — Furnishing
   Division 13 — Special Construction
   Division 14 — Conveying Systems
   Division 15 — Mechanical
   Division 16 — Electrical
  
   
• Technical specifications are available free from the Veterans Affairs web site.

• Restrictive Specifications  - (Procurement Handbook 7460.8,Rev 1, paragraph 7-2D)  "The Department recognizes that some HA's believe that standardizing their inventory of equipment and parts is essential to economy and efficiency.  At the same time, HAs must comply with the government-wide procurement standards which requires full and open competition.  In order to standardize its inventory, a HA may use specifications or descriptions which use brand names only when accompanied by the term "or equal".  In addition to the named product, any other product that meets the same technical requirements should be considered.  A brand name or equal description shall state only the HA's minimum needs.  The specific features of the product (design, functional or performance) that are salient, or essential, in meeting the HA's minimum needs in order to be considered "or equal" shall be clearly stated."

  
  Helpful Links

  1.  Veterans Affairs - Master Construction Specifications.
  2.  Construction Specifications Institute web site.

  Guidance

  1. 24 CFR 85.36 paragraph Section C