National Master Specification

The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) has assumed ownership of the National Master Specification (NMS) from Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC).  Please visit the Canadian National Master Construction Specifications web page for more information on this comprehensive, easy-to-use framework for writing construction project specifications.

NMS is intended for use by the federal government, other public organizations and the private sector in the preparation of construction and renovation contract documents.

The NMS is the most comprehensive master specification in Canada serving as an easy-to-use framework for writing construction project specifications. The NMS is a reference document containing approximately 750 master specifications in both English and French. Each section is designed to be edited from the original master to produce a project specific document. It is intended for use by the federal government, other public organizations and the private sector in the preparation of construction and renovation contract documents.

A complete set of specifications in both official languages can be purchased in print or electronic format from one of our publishers.

Individual speciality packages are also available for specifications related to: Architecture, Air Transportation, Building Services, Electrical, Heavy Civil Engineering, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture, Mechanical, Restoration-Conservation, and Structural Engineering.

An authoritative tool

The NMS Sections are regularly reviewed by both government and industry specialists to ensure their content reflects current practices and the latest construction technology. Over 400 consensus standards from various writing organizations are used throughout the NMS.

A versatile resource

The NMS maximizes protection against duplication and errors, while minimizing chances of risk, misunderstanding and liability. It can be edited and adapted for any size and type of construction project, for use in government or by the private sector.