Design & Spec

Question 1

How do you ensure a specification is fit for purpose

Answer 1

By ensuring it is clear, coordinated, and aligned with client requirements, regulations, and performance standards.

Question 2

Tell me about a design decision you influenced.

Answer 2

At Shear’s Way, I influenced both roofing specification and EPC strategy, ensuring alignment with ESG and long-term asset performance.

Question 3

What are the risks of poor specification?

Answer 3

Ambiguity, disputes, poor quality works, and increased costs.

Question 4

What is a specification and what is its purpose?

Answer 4

A specification defines materials, workmanship, and performance requirements to ensure works are delivered to the required standard and in compliance with regulations.

Question 5

What is your role in design and specification as a building surveyor?

Answer 5

To develop design solutions, prepare clear specifications, ensure compliance, and advise the client on appropriate options.

Question 6

Talk me through how you develop a specification.

Answer 6

• Understand client requirements
• Assess existing building condition
• Develop design solution
• Specify materials, standards, and workmanship
• Ensure compliance with regulations
• Coordinate with drawings

Question 7

Tell me about a design decision you have made.

Answer 7

At Shear’s Way, I assessed roofing options and recommended full replacement based on performance, lifecycle cost, and compliance.

Question 8

How do you ensure your specification is clear and effective?

Answer 8

By avoiding ambiguity, clearly defining standards and materials, and ensuring alignment with drawings and client requirements.

Question 9

Tell me about a design decision you have made.

Answer 9

At Shear’s Way, I assessed roofing options and recommended full replacement based on performance, lifecycle cost, and compliance.

Question 10

What is the difference between performance and prescriptive specification?

Answer 10

• Performance = defines required outcome
• Prescriptive = defines exact materials and methods

Question 11

When would you use each?

Answer 11

• Performance → flexibility, contractor input
• Prescriptive → control and certainty

Question 12

What are the risks of a poor specification?

Answer 12

• unclear scope
• disputes
• poor workmanship
• variations and increased cost

Question 13

How do you ensure compliance in your design?

Answer 13

By referencing Building Regulations, relevant standards, and best practice guidance.

Question 14

How do you choose between different design options?

Answer 14

By assessing:
• performance
• cost
• durability
• compliance
• client objectives

Question 15

How do you balance cost vs quality in design?

Answer 15

By considering lifecycle value rather than just upfront cost and advising the client accordingly.

Question 16

What would you do if a client wants a cheaper design?

Answer 16

Explain implications on performance and compliance, and recommend suitable alternatives.

Question 17

How do you ensure drawings and specifications are coordinated?

Answer 17

By reviewing both together, liaising with consultants, and resolving inconsistencies before issue.

Question 18

What would you do if there is a discrepancy between drawings and specification?

Answer 18

Clarify and issue a coordinated update to ensure consistency.

Question 19

A contractor says your specification is unclear — what do you do?

Answer 19

Review it, clarify requirements, and issue formal clarification.

Question 20

The contractor proposes an alternative material — how do you respond?

Answer 20

Assess against performance, compliance, durability, and client requirements before advising.

Question 21

What if the alternative is cheaper but lower quality?

Answer 21

Advise the client on risks and ensure decision is based on value, not just cost.

Question 22

How do you demonstrate Level 3 competency in this area?

Answer 22

By advising on design options, influencing decisions, and ensuring specifications are fit for purpose.

Question 23

What is the biggest risk in design and specification?

Answer 23

Ambiguity leading to disputes and poor-quality outcomes.

Question 24

How does this differ from procurement and tendering?

Answer 24

• Design & Specification = defining WHAT is to be built
• Procurement & Tendering = HOW and WHO delivers it