Welcome

What is the NMS?

The National Master Specification (NMS) is the most comprehensive master specification in Canada; each section serves as an easy-to-use framework for writing construction project specifications.

The NMS is owned and revised by Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), which coordinates its review by standards organizations and the construction industry. (See FAQs.) Production and distribution are carried out by private sector companies.

Produced in both official languages, print and electronic formats for various computer systems and software are available from our publishers.

You can buy a complete set or individual specialty packages: Architectural, Air Transportation, Building Services, Electrical, Heavy Civil Engineering, Interior Design, Landscape Architectural, Mechanical, Restoration-Conservation, and Structural Engineering. (See FAQs.)

The content is clear, concise, and precise, reflecting the expertise of many of Canada's foremost authorities on specifications, contract documents, and construction technology.

An Authoritative Tool

Government and industry review the content to ensure it continues to reflect current building practices and the latest construction technology. It refers to the most current standards, such as those of:

the Canadian Standards Association
the Canadian General Standards Board
the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada
the American National Standards Institute and
the American Society for Testing and Materials

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 government or the private sector.