What is STABU?
STABU is the Dutch standard specification system for housing and non-residential construction: a fixed structure, coding and library of standard clauses for writing a building specification (bestek) consistently. The name comes from Stichting STABU, founded in 1976; the abbreviation stood for Standaardbestek Burger- en Utiliteitsbouw. On 1 July 2020 STABU merged with Ketenstandaard Bouw en Installatie to form Ketenstandaard Bouw en Techniek, which has managed the system since.
In the UK, the NBS specification system plays a comparable role.
How STABU works
A STABU specification is divided into chapters per trade, such as earthworks, concrete work, masonry, windows and doors, and painting. Every chapter follows the same structure: general provisions, materials and workmanship. Each clause has a fixed code. The STABU Standard contains the general requirements and is declared applicable in the project specification, so they do not need to be rewritten every time.
Because architect, contractor, installer and supplier all use the same structure and coding, it is easier to compare prices, value variations and copy manufacturers’ product data straight into the specification.
Application
- On Dutch projects you will mainly meet STABU on new builds, larger renovations and tenders.
- Read the general provisions. They set out rules on workmanship, inspections and handover that apply to every chapter.
- Compare quotes chapter by chapter. Ask contractors to price using the same structure; differences then stand out.
- Record variations per clause. You will know afterwards exactly what changed.
Common mistake: copying standard clauses without tailoring them. The specification then contains requirements or materials that do not fit the project, which causes disputes later.
Related terms
- Building specification
- Tendering
- Construction costs
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