RFI Summary Responses - Palo Alto Medical Center Roof Repairs - REV2.pdf

Palo Alto Medical Center Roof Repairs Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System

PROJECT NUMBER: NRM 640-26-114

RFI Summary & Responses:

RFI Group #1:

1. I understand that Amendment 0001 was posted as part of the Sources Sought and that you cannot override it. Could you confirm if we are required to acknowledge Amendment 0001 in our proposal in box 19 of the SF 1442 or start with Amendment 0002?

a. When the sources sought was first posted, it was later amended, and the system registered it as Amendment 0001.

b. This solicitation shares the same number as the sources sought, and the system is registering it as Amendment 0002 and will only allow it to be published as Amendment 0002 – we are unable to override it.

c. Contractor must acknowledge Amendments starting with Amendment 0002 since Amendment 0001 was part of the sources sought.

2. Please increase the period of performance from 180 calendar days to 365 calendar days to account for material lead time, roof leak investigation and phasing.

a. The period of performance for this project shall remain at 180 calendar days.

3. Please confirm this RFP does not require State inspection for the roof since this is a

Federal project.

a. The Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System is the Authority Having

Jurisdiction for this project. The roof requirements including inspections are in the Request for Proposal, Statement of Work (SOW) and specifications.

State inspections are not required.

4. Please provide square footage for the Bldg 5 Area 2 – Replace TPO or provide scalable As-Built drawings to quantify square footage.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time.

5. Please provide scalable As-Built drawings showing elevation section for Bldg 5 Area 2 – Drainage scope of work or provide height to quantify drainpipe length

a. Scalable As-Built drawings are not available for the proposed work area. The roof canopy identified for Building 5 Area 2 is approximately 20 feet above finished grade.

6. Please provide scalable As-Built Roof plan drawings for Bldg 6 to quantify length and area of crickets to be repaired or provide square footage for bidding purposes.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time.

7. Please provide scalable As-Built Roof plan drawings for Bldg 7 to quantify square footage of roof repair or provide square footage for bidding purposes.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time.

8. In Exhibit 5, Bldg 7. It mark X in red, are these areas not included in bid or not in contract.

a. Areas marked with an “X” are not included in in scope of work.

9. In Exhibit 5, Bldg 7, please confirm mark Number 1 to 8 are the roofs areas to be in scope of work.

a. Areas identified as Numbers 1 – 8 are the roof areas included in the scope of work.

10. Per scope of work at Bldg 7, metal coping is to be removed. But no scope to replace or install new. Please confirm that no new metal coping is required for Bldg 7

a. Metal coping shall be replaced in kind.

11. For Bldg 100, please provide number of pipe penetration and diameter size for bidding purposes.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time.

12. For the Walkway between Bldg 100 & Bldg 101. Is the scope to perform water test, provide a report and roof repair recommendation since the repair method is still unknown and this is not a design build solicitation. A change order will be provided at a later date once the VA approves the roof repair proposal by the GC? Please confirm or provide type of repair

a. It is not the intent of this scope of work to require water tests to determine necessary repairs. Repair roof areas based on observable damage caused by previous water infiltration.

13. Please provide scalable As-Built Roof plan drawings for Bldg 101 to quantify square footage of roof repair for Area 1 & 3 or provide square footage for Area 1 & 3 bidding purposes.

a. The Floor Plan for Building 101 included as part of Exhibit 8 (issued as an attachment to the Statement of Work) includes dimensions that can be used as a basis to scale the drawings for the determination of area of work.

14. Please provide readable & scalable As-Built Roof plan drawings and parapet elevation for Bldg 102 to quantify square footage of silicone roof repair or provide square footage

a. The Roof Plan for Building 102 included as part of Exhibit 9 (included as an attachment to the Statement of Work) includes dimensions that can be used as a basis for the determination of area of work. There are a number of dimensions that are legible to use as a determination of scale for the plan.

As-Built plans that include parapet details are not available.

15. Please provide readable & scalable As-Built Roof plan drawings and parapet elevation for Bldg MB3 to quantify square footage of silicone roof repair or provide square footage

a. The Roof Plan for Building MB3 included as part of Exhibit 10 (included as an attachment to the Statement of Work) includes dimensions that can be used as a basis for determination of area of work. For clarification, the overall dimensions for the building, as shown on the Roof Plan are 93’-2” x 209’-10”.

The typical “MODULE” noted on the Roof Plan is 13’-10” with a 2” gap between modules. The Contractor is responsible for verifying the measurements.

b. As-Built Parapet Details:

As-Built Parapet Detail 1 – Building MB3:

As-Built Parapet Detail 2 – Building MB3:

As-Built Parapet Detail 3 – Building MB3:

16. For Bldg MB3, confirm statement – Demo existing roof membrane and dispose from site pertains only to the 375ft parapet wall and not the whole roof area.

a. It is the intent of this scope of work to repair / replace damaged roof along the perimeter of the parapet wall and not to replace the entire roof. The total length of the perimeter of this building is approximately 600 LF (the 375 ft.

length referenced above is for a portion of the total perimeter).

17. There is no roof manufacturer or roof contractor that can provide a 5yr warranty for a roof patch repair as the source of the leak might be underneath and beyond the area of the roof patch/ coating repair. Please consider to change the requirement to the standard 1 yr Contractor warranty.

a. The Contractor shall reduce the 5-year Contractor Warranty period included in the Statement of Work and replace requirement with a 2-year Contractor Warranty for work performed (applicable to all buildings included in this scope of work). In addition to the standard warranty of construction under RFO clause 52.246-21 Warranty of Construction, an additional one year warranty is required for the repairs.

RFI Group #2:

1. I am a roofing contractor in the Bay Area and interested in sub-contracting for this project. Though I am not SDVOSB I understand some of the work can be subbed to non SDVOSB. Wanted to confirm and if so, ask if you might perhaps let me know the lists of potential primes who are sourced for the project.

a. The list of contractors who attended the site visit was published with Amendment 0002.

RFI Group #3:

1. Please confirm access to the roof.

a. The Contractor’s personnel shall be allowed to access roof work areas by passing through each building included in the scope of work for this project.

Typical paths of access for most buildings were followed during the pre-bid site visit. Access shall be coordinated with COR.

b. Areas of work that are 2-Stories or less (Bldg. 6, Bldg. 7, Bldg. 102, and Bldg.

MB3) shall have delivery and removal of material, equipment, and debris via exterior methods. Transportation of materials, equipment, and debris shall not be allowed through the interior of the building.

c. Areas of work for Bldg. 4 and Bldg. 5 shall allow transportation of materials, equipment, and debris via interior stairways providing access to roof.

d. Areas of work for Bldg. 100, Bldg. 101, and the Walkway between Bldg. 100 and Bldg. 101 shall have delivery and removal of material, equipment, and debris via exterior methods. Transportation of materials, equipment, and debris shall not be allowed through the interior of the building. Due to logistical limitations, crane lifts shall be limited to one lift at the commencement of work in these areas, and one lift at the completion of work in these areas. Crane lifts shall be coordinated with COR.

2. Please confirm if electrical work will be provided by others.

a. The Contractor shall be responsible for electrical work associated with this project.

3. Please confirm if there are existing asbestos reports.

a. No asbestos reports are available for areas of work included in this project.

No asbestos containing materials have been identified in areas of proposed work. In the event that the Contractor identifies materials as potentially asbestos containing materials, report findings to the Government / COR for proper evaluation and further instructions.

RFI Group #4:

1. Basis of Bid for Repair Areas and Additional Leak Sources:

The solicitation identifies specific roof repair locations, quantities, and repair methods through the building-specific scope descriptions and exhibits. However, the SOW also contains requirements including:

• "Inspect and test as required to determine source of leak... Repair, as required."

• "Make repairs, as required, based on determination of cause(s) of water infiltration."

• "Take corrective action for any sources of water intrusion identified during post repair water test."

These provisions appear to create potential obligations beyond the specifically identified repair locations, quantities, and repair scopes described elsewhere in the solicitation. Bidders have no practical means to identify, investigate, or quantify the existence, location, or extent of additional roofing deficiencies, leak sources, or building envelope defects beyond the repair areas identified in the solicitation documents without destructive investigation that is not available during bidding.

Please clarify the intended basis of bid for work associated with additional leak sources or deficiencies that are not specifically identified in the SOW or exhibits.

If leak investigations, construction activities, or post-repair testing identify deficiencies outside the repair locations described in the solicitation documents, and such conditions could not reasonably have been identified or quantified during bidding, will the associated corrective work be addressed through a contract modification?

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time. It is not the intent of this scope of work to require water tests and/or destructive investigation to determine necessary repairs. Repair roof areas based on observable damage caused by previous water infiltration. Proposed work shall be limited to the areas of work identified in the solicitation documents. Post repair water testing is intended to demonstrate that repairs have resulted in a watertight system. In the event that sources of water infiltration and/or roof damage beyond the identified areas of proposed work are discovered during the construction process, they shall immediately be brought to the attention of the COR and the Contracting Officer. Any change in scope must be approved by the Contracting Officer.

2. Clarification of Scope Related to Existing Interior Water Damage and Concealed Conditions:

The Statement of Work identifies the project objective as providing a weather-tight building envelope and repairing roof damage caused by water infiltration. During the site visit, the Government identified and presented multiple locations exhibiting existing interior damage associated with roof leaks, including stained ceiling tiles, removed ceiling tiles, leak collection systems, and other evidence of historical water intrusion. However, the building-specific scope descriptions appear limited to roofing system investigation, substrate repair, flashing repair, membrane repair, and water testing, and do not identify any scope, quantities, locations, allowances, or specifications associated with repair, replacement, or restoration of interior building components damaged by water intrusion. As presented, the observable interior damage introduces potential impacts to project scope, phasing, constructability, schedule, and cost that cannot be reasonably quantified from the information provided to bidders. Please clarify whether the base bid shall include the investigation, repair, replacement, or restoration of building components damaged by historical water intrusion, including but not limited to ceiling systems, gypsum board, insulation, framing, blocking, finishes, corrosion remediation, mold remediation, or other affected building elements. Further, while certain visible impacts were presented during the site visit, the existence and extent of concealed damage beyond exposed architectural finishes cannot be determined without destructive investigation that is not available during bidding. If concealed damage associated with historical water intrusion is discovered during construction, and its existence or extent could not reasonably have been determined from the contract documents or site visit, will the associated work be addressed through a contract modification upon discovery?

a. The scope of work associated with the base bid for this project shall be limited to exterior repairs. Areas of existing, observable interior damage from historic water infiltration are made available to assist with the determination of the source of the water infiltration.

3. ICRA and PCRA Requirements Associated with Interior Repairs:

During the site visit, the Government identified multiple locations exhibiting interior damage associated with roof leaks. However, the solicitation documents do not identify any ICRA or PCRA classifications associated with potential interior investigation, demolition, repair, or restoration activities that may be required as a result of water intrusion. In the event the Government intends interior investigation, demolition, repair, replacement, or restoration activities associated with historical water intrusion to be included within the contract scope, please identify the applicable ICRA and PCRA classifications, containment requirements, work area restrictions, and any associated infection control or patient care measures required for those activities.

a. Scope of work for this project is restricted to exterior repairs only. Interior work shall be limited to inspections, evaluations, and documentation in support of determining sources of water intrusion in specific areas and as required to assess results of water tests performed. Preliminary review of proposed work with VA Infection Control Compliance Team indicates that there will be no ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment) or mitigation requirements for this project.

b. A PCRA (Pre Construction Risk Assessment) shall be completed by the COR for exterior work associated with this project.

4. Basis of Bid for Substrate Repair and Replacement:

The Statement of Work requires the Contractor to remove roofing as necessary to expose the roof substrate, conduct an inspection, report findings to the Government, and repair or replace substrate as required. However, the solicitation does not identify anticipated quantities, locations, limits, allowances, or unit-price provisions associated with substrate repair or replacement. Bidders have no practical means to determine the existence, location, condition, or extent of deteriorated substrate prior to demolition. Please clarify the intended basis of bid for substrate repair and replacement. If deteriorated substrate is discovered during demolition and its existence or extent could not reasonably have been determined from the contract documents or site visit, will the associated repair work be addressed through a contract modification upon discovery?

b. For the purposes of the base bid, repair and/or replacement of substrate shall be limited to areas in direct proximity to identified roof damage. If extensive deterioration of substrate is identified after removal of roofing, damage shall immediately be brought to the attention of the COR and the Contracting Officer. Any change in scope must be approved by the Contracting Officer.

5. Clarification of Warranty Requirements:

The SOW for Building 5 Area 2 requires a 20-Year NDL Total System Manufacturer Warranty. The SOW for Building 7 also requires a 20-Year NDL Total System

Manufacturer Warranty. However, Specification Section 07 54 23, Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) Roofing, states a Warranty Period of 10 years. Please clarify which warranty requirement governs for the TPO roofing work at Building 5 Area 2 and Building 7.

a. In the event of a discrepancy in contract documents, the more restrictive requirements supersede the less restrictive requirements. The Contractor shall provide a 20-year NDL Total System Manufacturer Warranty for the areas noted.

6. Clarification of Water Testing Requirements:

The SOW requires final water testing to verify corrective actions have resolved all issues and that the installed system is completely watertight. However, the solicitation does not identify the required testing methodology, duration, witnessing requirements, acceptance criteria, or standards governing the testing process.

Please clarify the required water testing procedures, including testing method, duration, required attendees/witnesses, acceptance criteria, and any applicable standards to be utilized for final acceptance.

a. It is not the intent of the Government to define or restrict the means and methods utilized by the Contractor. The intent of the post repair water testing is to demonstrate the successful completion of repairs resulting in a watertight system. The preferred method is flood testing. Testing shall follow industry standards for a standing water test, The COR shall be responsible for the identification of subject matter experts to observe testing on behalf of the Government.

7. Clarification of Required Onsite Staffing:

The specifications contain requirements for a Superintendent, SSHO, Competent Person, Quality Control activities, and other project management functions. Please clarify whether any of these positions may be performed by the same individual when qualifications are met, or whether the Government intends these functions to be staffed by separate personnel for the duration of the project.

a. The Superintendent may serve in this role as a dual-hatted individual with roles and responsibilities that include Quality Control and other project management functions, assuming that individual is qualified for each of these roles. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall be staffed by a qualified individual who has no other roles and responsibilities associated with the project. These positions shall be staffed by separate individuals. These individuals are required to be on site at all times when work is performed.

8. Clarification of Working Hours and Access Restrictions:

Please identify any restrictions on construction working hours for each building area, including limitations associated with patient care operations, noise-producing activities, roof access, utility shutdowns, or other operational constraints. Please also identify any areas where work must be performed during evenings, weekends, or off hours.

a. Work shall be performed during the hours of work identified in the Statement of Work. The Contractor shall make every effort to minimize impact to Staff and Patient Care. Schedule and activities shall be coordinated with the COR in advance of work tasks. There are no special requirements and/or restrictions anticipated for work hours outside of the standard schedule.

Utility shut downs require advance notice as defined in the Statement of Work.

9. Clarification of Available Staging, Laydown, and Temporary Facility Areas:

The solicitation requires coordination of staging areas with the COR; however, the contract documents do not identify the locations, limits, or anticipated size of areas available for contractor use during construction. Please identify the areas anticipated to be available for:

• Material staging and laydown

• Contractor parking

• Waste and recycling containers

• Storage containers and gang boxes

• Temporary sanitary facilities

• Temporary office or support facilities, if permitted Additionally, please identify any security, fencing, access control, or protection requirements associated with contractor use of these areas.

a. Availability of areas to be assigned for the tasks noted above cannot be determined this far in advance of the work. As a project schedule is developed, identifying specific areas of work and Contractor requirements, the COR will coordinate with other ongoing projects on campus to determine the most appropriate location(s) for use associated with this project. Every effort will be made to accommodate the Contractor’s needs and provide space within reasonable proximity to the work area. Staff, public and patient safety are the primary concerns related to security fencing requirements.

Temporary office and support facilities shall be allowed with a preference that this location remains stationary for the duration of the project. Specific lay down and support areas adjacent to work areas may move relative to the building(s) where work is being performed.

10. Clarification of Roof Access and Material Conveyance:

Please identify any restrictions regarding contractor access to the various roof areas included within the project, including the use of ladders, stair towers, material lifts, cranes, hoists, or other means of roof access. Additionally, please identify whether existing building elevators, freight elevators, service elevators, or other Government-owned material conveyance systems will be available for contractor use during construction. If elevator use will be permitted, please identify any restrictions regarding:

• Hours of availability

• Material size or weight limitations

• Required escorts or coordination procedures

• Protection requirements

• Buildings where elevator access will or will not be available Please also identify any known restrictions on exterior crane operations, material hoisting, or rooftop loading associated with the project sites.

a. The Contractor’s personnel shall be allowed to access roof work areas by passing through each building included in the scope of work for this project.

Typical paths of access for most buildings were followed during the pre-bid site visit. Access shall be coordinated with COR.

b. Areas of work that are 2-Stories or less (Bldg. 6, Bldg. 7, Bldg. 102, and Bldg.

MB3) shall have delivery and removal of material, equipment, and debris via exterior methods. Transportation of materials, equipment, and debris shall not be allowed through the interior of the building.

c. Areas of work for Bldg. 4 and Bldg. 5 shall allow transportation of materials, equipment, and debris via interior stairways providing access to roof.

d. Areas of work for Bldg. 100, Bldg. 101, and the Walkway between Bldg. 100 and Bldg. 101 shall have delivery and removal of material, equipment, and debris via exterior methods. Transportation of materials, equipment, and debris shall not be allowed through the interior of the building. Due to logistical limitations, crane lifts shall be limited to one lift at the commencement of work in these areas, and one lift at the completion of work in these areas. Crane lifts shall be coordinated with COR. Crane lifts require advance notice to the Government and the processing and approval of a crane lift plan with the Government Safety Compliance Officer

e. There are no anticipated restrictions of hours of availability within the defined work hours.

f. Material and weight limitations shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for each work area.

g. Access and escorting requirements shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for each work area.

11. Clarification of Existing Roof Investigation Information:

The specifications reference existing roof investigations, moisture evaluations, and/or condition assessments. Please confirm that all available roof condition reports, moisture surveys, leak investigation reports, test-cut reports, and related investigation information relevant to this project have been provided to bidders.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time. No additional existing roof investigations, moisture evaluations, and/or condition assessments are available at this time.

RFI Group #5:

1. In the scope of work task list, it states that items A.1 – A.15 applies to all areas. For example, at building 4 the scope is to apply Sikalastic to a 20x20 area. Please confirm we are to remove existing roofing as stated in A.13, perform inspection, report to VA and repair or replace substrate prior to power washing and applying the sikalastic? Confirm we are to do this for all areas regardless of the scope?

a. The Statement of Work Task List, Section A General Requirements, applies to all areas of work.

b. The Statement of Work Task List, Sections B – J provide additional requirements related to specific buildings and/or work areas.

2. In spec section 01 35 26 part 1.9.B it requires a monthly safety inspection by a Certified Safety Professional or a CSHT. Will the VA be enforcing this requirement on this project?

a. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall be responsible for job site safety and associated inspections. A monthly safety report shall be submitted to the COR.

3. In spec section 01 35 26 part 1.7 is unclear if the Superintendent, if qualified may also fill the role of SSHO. Will the VA allow the superintendent to fill the role of SSHO if qualified or will the VA require a separate individual to fill the role of SSHO?

a. The role of job site Superintendent and the role of SSHO shall be staffed by separate individuals. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall be staffed by a qualified individual who has no other roles and responsibilities associated with the project. The Superintendent may serve in this role as a dual-hatted individual with roles and responsibilities that include Quality Control and other project management functions, assuming that individual is qualified for each of these roles.

4. Part 1.4.B in spec section 01 45 00 states that the QC Manager may also perform the duties of the Superintendent. Based on this and section 01 35 26. Will the VA only require one qualified individual to perform the duties of the QC/SSHO and superintendent or will two people be required (Super/QC & SSHO)?

a. The role of job site Superintendent and the role of SSHO shall be staffed by separate individuals. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall be staffed by a qualified individual who has no other roles and responsibilities associated with the project. The Superintendent may serve in this role as a dual-hatted individual with roles and responsibilities that include Quality Control and other project management functions, assuming that individual is qualified for each of these roles.

5. Spec Section 07 01 50.19 requires infrared roof moisture survey per ASTM C1153- 10-(2015). Will the VA require this 3rd party sub to be contracted directly by the GC, or will it be acceptable for the roofing contractor to carry this sub?

a. It is not the intent of the Government to define or restrict the means and methods employed to complete project tasks. Required testing is ultimately the responsibility of the General Contractor.

6. Spec Section 07 01 50.19 requires a ground-based, walk-over type survey. Will the VA accept an aerial survey completed by use of a drone piloted by a qualified FAA part 107 pilot? This method is much faster and more economical.

a. It is not the intent of the Government to define or restrict the means and methods employed to complete project tasks. An aerial survey is acceptable to the Government.

7. Amendment 02 was issued for this solicitation. It appears amendment 01 has not been issued for this solicitation, was there a prior amendment or is this a numbering discrepancy?

a. When the sources sought was first posted, it was later amended, and the system registered it as Amendment 0001.

b. This solicitation shares the same number as the sources sought, and the system is registering it as Amendment 0002 and will only allow it to be published as Amendment 0002 – we are unable to override it.

c. Contractor must acknowledge Amendments starting with Amendment 0002 since Amendment 0001 was part of the sources sought.

8. Building 06 requires leak investigation and corrective repair at the expansion joint.

Without knowing what the extent of the leak is it will be difficult to price the repair.

Should the contractor price repair of the whole expansion joint?

a. Yes.

9. Please clarify the scope of work for the walkway between building 100 and 101. The exhibit shows water test leak investigation only. Then submit repair proposal after findings. The statement of work states to perform the leak test and then make repairs. Please confirm that the scope is to perform the leak test, then submit pricing to repair based on the leak test results.

a. It is not the intent of this scope of work to require water tests to determine necessary repairs. It is up to the Contractor to determine the best method to complete the requested repairs.

10. When testing for leaks, which areas of the hospital will require after hours work to enable workers to access the space below the roof. Or can all work be done during normal business hours.

a. It is the intention of the Government to have all work associated with this project performed during normal business hours, as defined in the Statement of Work.

11. For building 7, full roof replacement in 8 areas, is the new roof going to be the same thickness as the old roof system to be demoed? Will adjustments need to be made to existing installations on the roof if thickness is different?

a. It is the intent of this scope of work to provide a roofing system that matches the existing roofing system adjacent to the area of work. If an exact matching system is not available, the replacement roofing system shall be compatible with the existing roofing system adjacent to the area of work, including thickness.

12. Do any of the existing roofing materials contain hazardous materials? Is a hazmat report available for these roofs?

a. No hazardous materials reports are available for areas of work included in this project. No hazardous materials have been identified in areas of proposed work. In the event that the Contractor identifies existing installed roofing as potentially containing hazardous materials, report findings to the Government / COR for proper evaluation and further instructions.

RFI Group #6:

1. Scope of Work Task List, General Requirements, p 10, Articles 5, 7, and 8:

Given the requirements for power washing and final water testing, can the VA confirm that the existing drains are flowing properly. If drains are not functional, please clarify how you wish to handle power washing and final water testing.

a. No issues have been identified related to the proper functioning of existing roof drain systems.

2. Scope of Work Task List, General Requirements, p 10, Article 13: “Contractor shall remove existing roofing as required to expose roof substrate in areas of work, conduct thorough inspection of the substrate and report findings to the VA. Repair or replace substrate as required.” Please clarify that substrate issues will be addressed via a change order once the roof is removed and the condition is known.

c. For the purposes of the base bid, repair and/or replacement of substrate shall be limited to areas in direct proximity to identified roof damage. If extensive deterioration of substrate is identified after removal of roofing, damage shall immediately be brought to the attention of the COR and the Contracting Officer. Any change in scope must be approved by the Contracting Officer.

3. Scope of Work Task List, Building 5 (p 12), Article 4, Area 2:

The scope calls for coating removal on the Canopy TPO Roof Membrane. Please confirm that the coating can be completely removed down to the substrate to ensure a proper bond for the new roof system.

a. Confirmed. Coating can completely removed down to the substrate.

4. Scope of Work Task List, Building 7 (p 13), Article 3:

The scope requires roof removal down to the Lightweight Insulating Concrete (LWIC). Pease verify the condition of the LWIC; wet LWIC should be treated as an unforeseen condition, resulting in a change order.

d. For the purposes of the base bid, repair and/or replacement of substrate, including Lightweight Insulating Concrete shall be limited to areas in direct proximity to identified roof damage. If extensive deterioration of substrate is identified after removal of roofing, it shall immediately be brought to the attention of the COR and the Contracting Officer. Any change in scope must be approved by the Contracting Officer.

5. Scope of Work Task List, Walkway Between Building 100 & Building 101 (p 14), Article 3: The scope indicates making repairs based on the cause of water infiltration while page 16 of the “Exhibits - Roof Repairs” document indicates “Water Test for Leak Investigation Only. Repair Proposal after Findings.” Please confirm that the base scope is limited to the water test and confirm repairs for this area.

a. It is not the intent of this scope of work to require water tests to determine necessary repairs. Repair roof areas based on observable damage caused by previous water infiltration.

6. FACTOR 2: Past Performance Submission Requirements: Will you accept past performance project experience from key individuals who worked on the project at past employers?

a. Past performance information shall be accepted as defined in the solicitation. The offeror shall determine the best way to provide past performance information.

7. Scope of Work Task List, Building 7 (p 13), SOW: Please clarify the specific square footage and parameters on what needs to be replaced/repaired for the roof.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit.

8. Scope of Work Task List, Building 7 (p 13), SOW: Please confirm the required taper / slope / insulation required to prevent ponding on roof.

a. Required slope shall be ¼” per 1’-0” minimum.

9. Scope of Work Task List, Building 100 (p 14), SOW: Please clarify the specific square footage and parameters on what needs to be replaced/repaired for the roof to ensure leak is remediated.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated information is not available at this time.

RFI Group #7:

1. Scope Clarification: The SOW for Building 5, Area 2 requires installation of a Carlisle Sure-Weld 115-mil TPO FleeceBack system with a 20-year Total System Manufacturer’s Warranty. However, the overall project only requires a 5-year Contractor Warranty. Please clarify whether the 20-year manufacturer warranty is required in addition to the 5-year contractor warranty, or if the 5-year contractor warranty satisfies the requirement for this area.2. Substrate Inspection & Repair Responsibility.

e. The Contractor shall reduce the 5-year Contractor Warranty period included in the Statement of Work and replace requirement with a 2-year Contractor Warranty for work performed (applicable to all buildings included in this scope of work).

f. Provide 20-year Total System Manufacturer’s Warranty in addition to required Contractor’s Warranty where noted in the Statement of Work.

2. Section 3.A.13 of the SOW states the Contractor shall remove existing roofing as required, inspect the substrate, and “Repair or replace substrate as required.”

Please clarify whether substrate repairs (beyond minor patching) will be considered additional work and compensated via change order, or if they are to be included in the base bid.3. Existing Conditions Documentation.

a. For the purposes of the base bid, repair and/or replacement of substrate shall be limited to areas in direct proximity to identified roof damage. If extensive deterioration of substrate is identified after removal of roofing, damage shall immediately be brought to the attention of the COR and the Contracting Officer. Any change in scope must be approved by the Contracting Officer.

3. The SOW requires the Contractor to perform a site survey and submit a survey report prior to starting work. Besides the Exhibits, will the Government provide any existing roof condition reports, previous inspection reports, or core sampling data for the buildings included in this project?

a. The purpose of the site survey is for the Contractor to document existing as-built conditions that are observable. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre- Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time. No additional existing roof investigations, moisture evaluations, and/or condition assessments are available at this time.

4. Warranty Requirements – Conflicting Language.

Several buildings require a 5-year Contractor Warranty, while Building 5 (Area 2) and Building 7 require a 20-year NDL Total System Manufacturer’s Warranty. Please confirm whether a 20-year manufacturer warranty is required on all TPO work or only where specifically stated.

a. The Contractor shall reduce the 5-year Contractor Warranty period included in the Statement of Work and replace requirement with a 2-year Contractor Warranty for work performed (applicable to all buildings included in this scope of work).

b. Provide 20-year Total System Manufacturer’s Warranty in addition to required Contractor’s Warranty where noted in the Statement of Work.

5. Power Washing & Water Infiltration During Cleaning.

The SOW allows power washing but states the Contractor shall “take precautions to minimize water infiltration through existing roof deficiencies.” Please clarify the Contractor’s responsibility if water intrusion occurs into the building during power washing activities despite taking reasonable precautions.

a. The Contractor shall minimize the length of time for any standing water during the power washing process. Prior to power washing, Contractor shall verify that temporary interior containment installed by the Government to capture historic water infiltration is in place.

6. Electrical Safe-Off & Relocation (Building 5).

Building 5 requires core drilling and relocation of electrical lines. Will the VA provide an electrician, or is the Contractor responsible for providing licensed electrical work? Also, please confirm if a separate electrical permit is required.

a. The Contractor shall be responsible for all work defined in the Statement of Work, including required electrical work.

7. Staging Areas & Roof Access. The SOW states the Contractor shall coordinate with the COR to establish designated staging areas. Will the VA provide designated staging/laydown areas on grade, or must all staging occur on the roofs? Please also clarify roof access restrictions and any weight/load limits for equipment and materials.

a. Availability of areas to be assigned for the tasks noted above cannot be determined this far in advance of the work. As a project schedule is developed, identifying specific areas of work and Contractor requirements, the COR will coordinate with other ongoing projects on campus to determine the most appropriate location(s) for use associated with this project. Every effort will be made to accommodate the Contractor’s needs and provide space within reasonable proximity to the work area. Staff, public and patient safety are the primary concerns related to security fencing requirements.

Temporary office and support facilities shall be allowed with a preference that this location remains stationary for the duration of the project. Specific lay down and support areas adjacent to work areas may move relative to the building(s) where work is being performed.

b. The Contractor’s personnel shall be allowed to access roof work areas by passing through each building included in the scope of work for this project.

Typical paths of access for most buildings were followed during the pre-bid site visit. Access shall be coordinated with COR.

c. Areas of work that are 2-Stories or less (Bldg. 6, Bldg. 7, Bldg. 102, and Bldg.

MB3) shall have delivery and removal of material, equipment, and debris via exterior methods. Transportation of materials, equipment, and debris shall not be allowed through the interior of the building.

d. Areas of work for Bldg. 4 and Bldg. 5 shall allow transportation of materials, equipment, and debris via interior stairways providing access to roof.

e. Areas of work for Bldg. 100, Bldg. 101, and the Walkway between Bldg. 100 and Bldg. 101 shall have delivery and removal of material, equipment, and debris via exterior methods. Transportation of materials, equipment, and debris shall not be allowed through the interior of the building. Due to logistical limitations, crane lifts shall be limited to one lift at the commencement of work in these areas, and one lift at the completion of work in these areas. Crane lifts shall be coordinated with COR. Crane lifts require advance notice to the Government and the processing and approval of a crane lift plan with the Government Safety Compliance Officer

f. There are no anticipated restrictions of hours of availability within the defined work hours.

g. Material and weight limitations shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for each work area.

h. Access and escorting requirements shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for each work area.

8. Interior Water Testing & Protection. The SOW requires the Contractor to inspect interior areas prior to water testing and take corrective action for any water intrusion identified during post-repair testing. Please clarify the extent of the Contractor’s responsibility for interior repairs if water intrusion is discovered during testing (e.g., ceiling tiles, drywall, etc.).

a. The Contractor shall inspect interior areas adjacent to areas of roof repairs to document existing conditions and to assist in the identification of any sources of water infiltration upon completion of roof repairs. Repairs associated with this scope of work are limited to exterior repairs only.

9. Schedule & Phasing Requirements. The project has a 180-day period of performance across multiple buildings. Does the VA have any preferred sequencing or priority buildings that must be completed first? Also, will there be any restrictions on working on multiple buildings simultaneously?

a. It is not the intent of the Government to define or restrict means and methods used. The Government has not identified specific buildings as priorities for the completion of roof repairs. Work performed concurrently on multiple buildings shall be acceptable to the Government, provided staffing requirements are met.

10. Product Substitutions / Approved Equals. Several sections specify proprietary products (Sikalastic Roof Pro, Carlisle Sure-Weld TPO, JMC membranes, etc.). Will the VA consider equivalent products from other manufacturers, provided they meet or exceed the specified performance requirements?

a. It is the intent of this scope of work to provide a roofing system that matches the existing roofing system adjacent to the area of work. If an exact matching system is not available, the replacement roofing system shall be compatible with the existing roofing system adjacent to the area of work. Equivalent products shall be considered provided compatibility can be demonstrated.

11. As-Built / Existing Roof Drawings. Please provide any available as-built or existing roof drawings/details for the buildings included in this project (especially Buildings 5, 6, and 7 where more extensive work is required).

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated Exhibits, and observations made during the Pre-Bid Site Visit. Additional information is not available at this time.

12. Fall Protection & Safety. The SOW references compliance with OSHA fall protection requirements. Will the VA require submission of a site-specific Fall Protection Plan prior to mobilization?

a. Yes.

13. Final Water Testing Acceptance. The SOW states that final acceptance requires a successful water test witnessed by the COR. Please confirm the acceptable method of water testing (e.g., flood test, hose test, electronic leak detection) and the duration required.

a. It is not the intent of the Government to define or restrict the means and methods utilized by the Contractor. The intent of the post repair water testing is to demonstrate the successful completion of repairs resulting in a watertight system. The preferred method is flood testing. Testing shall follow industry standards for a standing water test, The COR shall be responsible for the identification of subject matter experts to observe testing on behalf of the Government.

14. Building 6 – Expansion Joint Repair. Building 6 requires inspection and repair of a vertical expansion joint leak. Please provide any additional details or photos regarding the existing condition of this expansion joint.

a. Proposed areas of work have been defined with the best available information provided in the Statement of Work, including associated information is not available at this time.

15. Section 01 00 00, paragraph 1.2.F states that the General Contractor shall have a designated superintendent on site at all times when work is being performed, and that “the project superintendent shall not have any other roles on the project.”

Please confirm whether the Superintendent may also serve as the Competent Person for safety, or if these must be two separate individuals.

a. The Superintendent may serve in this role as a dual-hatted individual with roles and responsibilities that include Quality Control and other project management functions, assuming that individual is qualified for each of these roles. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall be staffed by a qualified individual who has no other roles and responsibilities associated with the project. These positions shall be staffed by separate individuals. These individuals are required to be on site at all times when work is performed.

16. Competent Person Presence Requirement. Section 01 00 00, paragraph 1.2.E requires an OSHA-certified Competent Person to “maintain a presence at the work site whenever the general and/or subcontractors are present.” Please clarify whether this Competent Person must be physically on site full-time during all work activities, or if periodic presence is acceptable as long as they are available when work is ongoing.

a. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall meet the certification requirements of Specification Section 01 35 26 “Safety Requirements”. SSHO shall be physically present at all times while work is performed.

17. Separate Safety Supervision. Does the project require a dedicated Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO), or will the OSHA Competent Person requirement satisfy all safety supervision needs? If a separate SSHO is required, please provide the minimum qualifications and on-site presence expectations.

a. The competent person serving as the SSHO (Site Safety Health Officer) shall meet the certification requirements of Specification Section 01 35 26 “Safety Requirements”, including OSHA certification. SSHO shall be physically present at all times while work is performed.

18. Superintendent Qualifications. Please confirm the minimum qualifications and experience required for the designated Project Superintendent (e.g., years of roofing experience, OSHA training, etc.).

a. The competent person serving as the Superintendent shall meet the certification requirements of Specification Section 01 00 00 “General Requirements”. Superintendent shall be physically present while work is performed.

19. Multiple Buildings / Simultaneous Work. Since work will be performed across multiple buildings, will one Superintendent be acceptable for the entire project, or does the VA expect a dedicated Superintendent (or assistant) when work is occurring on more than one building at the same time?

a. One job site Superintendent, responsible for all work associated with this project, is acceptable.

20. After-Hours or Weekend Work Supervision. If after-hours or weekend work is approved, will the same on-site Superintendent and Competent…