Facade tendering is a crucial phase in the construction process, where detailed proposals are solicited from contractors to design, supply, and install building facades. This guide outlines the key components, processes, and best practices involved in facade tendering.

A well-structured tendering process ensures that the project meets its aesthetic, performance, and budgetary requirements.

Key Components of Facade Tendering

1. Tender Documentation

Scope of Work:
  • Clearly define the scope of the facade work, including design requirements, materials, installation methods, and performance criteria.
  • Specify any special considerations, such as sustainability goals, acoustic performance, or regulatory compliance.
Drawings and Specifications:
  • Provide detailed architectural drawings that illustrate the design intent and dimensions of the facade.
  • Include technical specifications for materials, finishes, and systems, ensuring clarity on quality and performance standards.
Bill of Quantities (BoQ):
  • Prepare a comprehensive BoQ that lists all components required for the facade, along with quantities and units of measurement.
  • This document helps bidders accurately price their proposals.
Project Schedule:
  • Outline the expected timeline for the project, including key milestones for design approvals, material procurement, and installation phases.

2. Tender Process

Prequalification:
  • Conduct a prequalification process to identify capable contractors with relevant experience in facade work.
  • Evaluate potential bidders based on their past performance, financial stability, technical expertise, and references.
Invitation to Tender (ITT):
  • Send out the ITT to selected contractors, including all relevant tender documentation.
  • Set a clear deadline for submissions and provide instructions for any queries during the tendering period.
Site Visits:
  • Organize site visits for bidders to familiarize themselves with project conditions and site-specific challenges.
  • Use this opportunity to clarify project expectations and answer questions.

3. Bid Submission and Evaluation

Bid Submission:
  • Require bidders to submit their proposals by the established deadline, including pricing, methodology, and any value engineering options.
  • Specify the format for submissions to ensure consistency and ease of evaluation.
Evaluation Criteria:

Define clear criteria for evaluating bids, including:

  • Price: Total cost of the facade works.
  • Technical Compliance:Adherence to design specifications and performance criteria.
  • Experience:Previous projects of similar scope and complexity.
  • Project Timeline:Proposed schedule for completion.
  • Sustainability Measures:Commitment to using eco-friendly materials and practices.
Bid Interviews:
  • Conduct interviews or presentations with shortlisted bidders to clarify their proposals and assess their understanding of the project.

4. Awarding the Contract

Contract Negotiation:
  • Engage in negotiations with the selected contractor to finalize terms, conditions, and pricing.
  • Ensure that all parties understand their roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Contract Documentation:

Draft a comprehensive contract that includes:

  • Scope of work
  • Payment terms
  • Timeline and milestones
  • Warranty and maintenance provisions
  • Dispute resolution mechanisms
Post-Award Meeting:
  • Hold a kickoff meeting with the awarded contractor to discuss project details, communication protocols, and coordination efforts.