National Structural Concrete Specification (NSCS)

The National Structural Concrete Specification for Building Construction was developed by CONSTRUCT and a technical committee that included contractors, consultants and industry partners. It aims to be the standard specification for concrete frames in the UK. The specification is designed to achieve increased efficiency through a definitive, simple, straightforward specification which removes unnecessary conditions and facilitates construction. It also provides guidance on tolerances and finishes. The 5th Edition of the NSCS was launched in July 2025 and complies with BS EN 13670 Execution of Concrete Structures. It is web-based and can be found at nscs/construct.org.uk. It has standard specification clauses and project specific clauses. There is also guidance for the user. For visual concrete projects a Visual Concrete Report template is available.

• The standard specification clauses provide a base specification with standard clauses on execution, materials and construction.
• The project specification clauses allow the project team to provide details of the project and any specific requirements. It details, by exception, any amendments to the standard specification clauses considered necessary by the project team.
• The guidance can be read alongside the specification and gives background information and recommendations.
• The Visual Concrete Report allows the project team to clarify the requirements for the concrete finish.

All members of the project team can benefit from the NSCS:

• Designers no longer have to develop their own specification from scratch.
• Specialist concrete contractors will be able to tender more effectively and have more freedom to innovate.
• Clients will benefit from increased savings and cost benefits.
• The 5th edition has a greater emphasis on all aspects of sustainability, including embodied carbon and responsible sourcing of materials, than previous editions.

To access the 5th edition of NSCS, visit nscs/construct.org.uk