Job Book 9th Edition - Book - Page 354
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Contractor Engagement: Supplementary Material: P/SM4
P/SM4:Selective tendering: Specialist subcontractors and
suppliers
1. Identify items
During the Developed Design and Technical Design stages, items where a
measure of control over choice needs to be exercised should be identified. These
might include, for example:
• materials or named suppliers
• acceptable subcontractors, restricted to listed names
• named subcontractors, as provided for by the Building Contract.
Where subcontractors or suppliers have been named under procedures laid
down in the particular contract, there is usually a requirement or opportunity
to use a standard design warranty in favour of the employer. However, where
subcontractors or suppliers are referred to in items in the bill or specification,
and are intended to be domestic appointments, then the contractor will have
no liability for their design input. In such cases, the employer’s interests might
need to be protected by a warranty, should this be available. The client’s consent
should always be obtained in writing where subcontractors have a design input
which might be regarded as having been subcontracted by the architect.
The purpose of tendering should be identified, e.g. whether it is to obtain
information necessary to complete detail design, to obtain a realistic basis for a
provisional sum, or to facilitate advance ordering, where desirable.
2. List suitable firms
Compile a list after discussion with other members of the design team and the
contractor (if appointed). Refer to office records of previous experience and
check out references if necessary.
3. Make preliminary enquiries
Consult the cost consultant and other consultants to establish a timetable for
inviting tenders so as to provide necessary information for inclusion in bills/
specifications/schedules. Check that current information is obtained concerning
the financial status of firms and that they have adequate resources. Send a
preliminary invitation to tender, or to ascertain willingness for inclusion in a list
of subcontractors or as a named supplier. If approximate dates and figures can
be given at this stage, it should be possible to obtain a reliable response. It may
be sufficient to make initial enquiries by telephone, but a letter can be written
if considered appropriate.
