DR-4240-CA_Urgent_H I_SOW.pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK

FEMA-DR-4240-CA

Urgent Hauling and Install Manufactured Housing Units (MHUs)

1.1 Scope

The Contractor shall furnish all management, supervision, personnel, equipment, materials, transportation, and supplies necessary to perform services as defined by this Statement of Work for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA requests installation of up to five (5) Manufactured Housing Units (MHUs).

1.2 Mission, Location, Description

1.2.1 Mission

FEMA is authorized to provide disaster assistance to individuals and households for emergencies, major disasters, and Incidents of National Significance under the Robert T.

Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Public Law 93-288), as amended. Per that authorization, this Statement of Work applies to the counties in the federal emergency declaration that includes Individual Assistance under FEMA-DR-4240-CA. The affected counties are Lake and Calaveras. Additional counties may be added to the declaration through amendments. FEMA reserves the right to include multiple contractors which may be located in specific zones (i.e. counties or zip codes, etc.) depending on the number of units to be set in the disaster.

1.2.2 Location

The current center point of operations is at the FEMA/Joint Field Office which is located at 8745 Folsom Drive, Sacramento, California, 95826. The staging yard center point of operations is located at 5000 Patrol Road, McClellan, CA 95652 which will be the reporting office for the haul and install mission. FEMA staging hours of operation will be from 7:00am until 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. No pickup or delivery of MHU’s to be conducted on Saturday or Sunday unless an operational need is identified by the COR. Installation will be on private sites

• 2 installations in Lake County

• 5 installations in Calaveras County

1.2.3 Description

The Contractor shall support the Government’s manufactured housing unit mission. The mission shall include the transportation of manufactured housing units (MHUs) from the FEMA staging yard to be installed on private sites within the affected areas of California, or other locations specified by FEMA.

1.3 Period of Performance

The Contract Period of Performance is 30-days. The contractor shall be ramped up and ready to receive work orders within one day of contract award.

1.4 Operational Day

Unless otherwise specified by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) the required services in the contract are to be performed during the normal operational day. Operational hours and days of the week will be 0700 to 1900, Monday through Friday and as allowed by California State regulations on Saturday and Sunday. Missions on Saturdays and Sundays will be at the direction of the COR. Operational days are excluding Federal Holidays or as determined by the CO and/or COR. Initially a FEMA haul and install mission requires operational days to be 7 days per week.

1.5 Projected Workload

Required services shall include ability to transport and install MHUs within 7 days from work order (WO) issuance. Transport will be from the FEMA staging yard to assigned private sites located within the disaster areas. Contractor will be expected to meet the timelines and operational requirements for the provision of services. However, the Contractor is responsible for supporting any Government changes to the contract schedule. The Government will attempt to provide the Contractor with advanced notice of any changes to the schedule in writing, (for example staging yards may close due to inclement weather on short notice and federally recognized holidays).

1.6 Contractor Furnished Property

The Contractor shall be responsible for providing all facilities, equipment, and materials which are necessary to fulfill the requirements of the contract. This includes any collateral equipment, such as calculators, computers not connected to the FEMA network server, fax, copy machines, and consumable and general office supplies.

1.7 Contractor Minimum Qualifications

The Contractor shall provide professional, courteous, and timely services, activities, and management to ensure that all work identified in this Statement of Work is completed. This includes incorporating customer service into operations, where appropriate, as well as employing a flexible and transparent performance management system that includes performance measures of Contractor staff, subcontractors, and other representatives.

1.8 Performance Evaluation Meetings

The Contracting Officer (CO) or COR may require the Project Manager to meet with the CO or COR and other government personnel to review Contractor performance. Conversely, the Contractor may request performance evaluation meetings with the CO/COR when he or she believes such a meeting is necessary. Written minutes of any such meeting shall be recorded in the contract file and signed by the Contract Project Manager and the CO or COR. If the Contractor does not concur with any portion of the minutes, such non-concurrence shall be provided in writing to the CO/COR.

Section 2 - Roles and Responsibilities of Contractors and FEMA

2.1 Contractor Roles and Responsibilities

Contractor roles and responsibilities are contingent on the services required specific to the disaster event. The categories of services required include MHU hauling and installation. The required services and projected workload are specified in this Section. Roles and responsibilities for each of these categories are listed below.

General Roles and Responsibilities

1. Provide all of the material, labor, equipment, and services necessary for the mission.

2. Use Local subcontractors to the maximum extent practicable.

3. Actively coordinate with the FEMA CO or COR.

4. Provide staff that is able to obtain access to government facilities if needed for meetings. All Contractor staff will be required to go through the government process in place, as required by the COR, to allow them access to Government facilities.

5. Identify and notify COR of potential project constraints.

6. Perform work and task order activities on time. Ensure Contractor performance meets the requirements outlined in this SOW, Performance Requirements and Performance Evaluation.

7. No Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) will be supplied.

8. Dispose of all materials and supplies in compliance with all Federal, State, and Local laws, regulations, and rules. This includes, but is not limited to, spent fuels, batteries, refrigerants, tires, etc. The Contractor shall pay any fees associated with the removal and disposal of hazardous waste.

9. Contractor Safety

a. The Contractor shall furnish all required safety equipment and/or clothing, which may be required for personnel as mandated by Federal, State, and Local code. This will include maintaining a safe working environment for the Contractor’s employees, unit occupants, FEMA staff, other Contractors and the general public. At no time shall the Contractor leave unattended or otherwise unprotected, any excavation or safety hazard that might cause injury to persons.

b. The Contractor shall comply with the Department of Labor and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety regulations, rules and requirements, as well as any Federal, State, County and Local laws, codes, and ordinances.

10. Provide reports, as defined by the COR. Ensure that all reports meet the information needs specified, and any additional information requested by the COR. Maintain accurate records and provide all documents as required in the contract.

2.1a Manufactured Housing Unit Haul Roles and Responsibilities

1. Transport MHUs from pickup locations designated by FEMA to delivery locations designated by FEMA. This may include:

a. Transportation from the FEMA staging yard to the installation address;

b. Transportation from one (1) installation site to another installation site;

2. Hauling locations and other transportation services are specified in this section.

3. Obtain all permits and licenses, as required, at the expense of the Contractor.

4. Obtain the services of an oversize vehicle escort, as required, at the expense of the

Contractor in compliance with State and local regulations regarding oversized loads unless otherwise notified by the COR.

2.1b Manufactured Housing Unit Install Roles and Responsibilities

1. Obtain all bonds and permits required for MHU Installation, and Deactivation.

2. Obtain appropriately licensed staff and subcontractors to perform the work. Coordinate all efforts with Government entities as required by Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations.

3. Install MHUs in accordance with the specifications in this Statement of Work.

2.2 FEMA Roles and Responsibilities

In order to support Contractor activities related to hauling and installation responsibilities, FEMA shall perform the tasks detailed below. The scope of services provided by FEMA may vary based on the need of the event, and scope of services provided by the Contractor or other Federal agencies.

1. Identify unit installations on private sites.

2. Provide temporary housing units.

3. Identify number of units to be occupied.

4. Identify the potential occupants for the MHUs.

5. Identify the location to pick-up, transport, and install the MHUs.

6. Provide staff as needed at staging area to inspect any units.

7. Address domestic problems, disruptive tenants, and/or tenants refusing service.

8. Accept MHUs from the Contractors using the FEMA form 90-13 (unit condition inspection report) see attachments.

Section 3 - Acceptance of MHUs This section describes the Contractor’s duties and responsibilities related to accepting Government property in the form of MHUs. The scope of services required by the Government, as specified in this section, will identify the points at which the MHU will be transferred to the Contractor. The Contractor shall perform inspections and acceptance of all MHUs at the FEMA designated pick-up point. This may include when picking up the MHU from the forward staging location and transporting to the installation site; when transporting the unit between installation sites; and when transporting the unit back to forward staging or long-term storage following deactivation. If FEMA changes the location of the staging area or pick up point, the COR will provide the Contractor with advanced notice of this change in writing. The Contractor will use a FEMA Form 90-13 for unit acceptance. The Contractor shall be responsible for all damage while the MHU is in their possession, unless they can demonstrate to the COR that the damage is a latent defect in the unit.

Section 4 - Transport of MHUs This section describes the duties of the Contractor in transporting MHUs from the FEMA staging yard and transporting units from the staging yard to the installation site. The Contractor will know in advance where the MHU will be transported from, and where the MHU will be transported to as identified and directed by FEMA and communicated by the COR. FEMA will issue work orders to the Contractor for transportation of the following types of MHUs:

• Two 3 bedroom units

• Three 2 bedroom units

• Two 1 bedroom units (one unit requiring a UFAS ramp)

The Contractor shall provide all permits, transportation, labor, equipment, and materials required to accomplish transportation of the MHUs. The Contractor shall ensure that all units in its custody are road worthy. The Contractor is required to send a list of drivers that includes their name, license information, and the vehicle they will be driving, to the facility where they will be picking up the MHU each day. Retrieving the MHU at the FEMA staging area, and cross referencing the associated FEMA Form 90-13, contained in the unit, to ensure the work requested by the Government as well as the inventory in possession of the Contractor is delivered as required and in the condition received. Additionally, if the Contractor designates a MHU as unsuitable for installation, the Contractor shall provide written documentation noted on the FEMA Form 90-13, and include photographs supporting the rejection. The Contractor is required to repair any damages to the interior and/or exterior of the MHU during transport.

Section 5 - Site Feasibility Inspections This section describes the duties of the Contractor as it applies to Site Feasibility Inspections.

Site Feasibility Inspections is the process by which a potential location for installation for a MHU has been verified to ensure the location meets installation requirements. The Contractor may or may not be required to perform Site Feasibility Inspections. These requirements, however, apply to FEMA or any other Federal agency conducting Site Feasibility Inspections.

5.1 General Requirements

The COR may direct the Contractor to conduct Site Feasibility Inspections of areas identified by FEMA to determine whether the sites can be used for installing temporary housing units. FEMA reserves the right to perform “in-house” feasibility assessments, or to form a team that includes Government and contract staff to conduct these Site Feasibility Inspections, as it deems appropriate. The Contractor shall perform Site Feasibility Inspections to assess site use.

The Site Feasibility Inspections are also used to identify what efforts are needed to install units, such as the installation of utility poles, site grading, or other activities. These inspections are done in compliment to the assessments done by FEMA and other Federal staff. The Inspections done by the contractor are not for applicant qualification or program applicability; they are for feasibility of the physical site and the suitability of the site for the contractor’s services. These inspections include evaluations of the general geographic area for appropriate ingress and egress of units in accordance with state and local regulations. As part of the site inspection, the COR may task the Contractor to determine whether the site is in a flood zone, per the determination of the National Flood Insurance Program. If it is assigned, the Contractor shall review the appropriate documentation to make this determination. The Contractor shall not install any manufactured home in “Flood Zone A” (100 year Flood Zone) or within and floodway or special flood hazard area (SFHA). The installation of the MHUs on private sites should not hinder the ability to proceed or continue with making necessary repairs and/or recovery activities to the damaged dwelling. All site inspections shall be completed on the FEMA Form (Site Inspection Report see attachments). The Contractor will provide a Cost Proposal to the COR for any requested Site Feasibility Inspections.

5.2 Results of Site Feasibility Inspections

Results of a Site Feasibility Inspections may be classified as one of the following:

• Feasible - A site is deemed “Feasible” if it can accommodate a MHU with little to no site modification, and will not inhibit the homeowner and / or their representatives to access the house to conduct necessary repairs.

• Infeasible – Pending Owner Action. A site is deemed “Infeasible – Pending Owner Action” if the homeowner needs to perform some task to ensure feasibility. This may include removing debris from the property, or ensuring septic systems are functional prior to being deemed feasible.

• Infeasible – Pending COR Approval. A site is deemed “Infeasible – Pending COR Approval” if some service is required on the property that requires additional time or financial resources by the Contractor.

• Infeasible – Other. A site is deemed “Infeasible – Other” if the site is deemed not feasible for reasons other than pending owner action or pending COR approval. This may be because the site is too small to accommodate a MHU, or that the services required to install a MHU are prohibitive.

• No Contact- A site is deemed No Contact after 3 unsuccessful attempts over a 3 day period. Documentation of the attempts are to be reported to the COR. All attempts should be multi-faceted (example; phone, site visit or door notice).

For all Site Feasibility Inspections that are returned with any result other than feasible, the Contractor shall provide a narrative description of why the location is not feasible and what, if anything, could be done to make the site feasible as well as an estimated cost to make the site feasible. All Site Feasibility Inspections will be documented using the FEMA provided Forms.

Section 6 - Hauling and Installation This section describes the duties of the Contractor as it applies to unit installation. Installation is the process by which a MHU is temporarily affixed to a real property location. During this installation process, the MHU is placed at its installation location as indicated on the site inspection drawing. The unit is then blocked, leveled, anchored, utilities connected and outfitted with proper skirting, stairs, ramps, and or platform stairs as appropriate. The MHU should be made Ready for Occupancy (RFO) by testing all appliances and assembling all furniture. The lot should be cleaned and have all extraneous material removed.

6.1 General Requirements

FEMA may issue Work Orders to the Contractor for installation of any of the following classes of MHUs: 3 bedroom mobile homes, 2 bedroom mobile homes, and 1 bedroom mobile home models. Generally, all types of FEMA MHUs are installed to the same standards, including all applicable Federal, State, and Local laws or regulations, as well as the manufacturer’s installation instructions. If State or Local codes vary from any of the requirements, resulting in any deviation on the part of the Contractor, a copy of the code and notation of installation modifications necessary shall be provided to the COR for approval. Additionally, FEMA will require one MHU to be installed in compliance with the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS). In the case of conflicting requirements, the most stringent, specific, and definitive rule will be followed. If a conflict arises within the requirements, the COR will make the final determination. The Contractor shall identify and obtain all permits that are required for the MHU installations, and report the projected time required to obtain permits. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining necessary permits associated with placing and installing the unit and utility installation. The contractor must abide by state and local transportation regulations relative to oversized/overweight loads unless otherwise directed by COR. The Contractor shall identify the permits required for completing the unit installation. The contractor is responsible for taking all actions necessary for securing a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) for each unit along with associated fees for inspections and permitting unless waived by state or local jurisdiction. Upon receipt of a FEMA issued work order, the Contractor shall install the MHU at the FEMA approved location detailed in the Site Inspection Report, as noted on the FEMA issued work order. The transportation of the MHU from the staging area to the installation site (up to 175 miles) is covered under the basic installation CLIN 0001. Any deviation from the approved site location must be approved in advance by the COR. The installation of the MHU on private sites shall not hinder the ability to proceed or continue with making necessary repairs and/or recovery activities to the damaged dwelling.

6.2 Additional Electrical Site Preparation

FEMA’s available MHUs for this mission are all electric (no gas) with 200A main breakers. At the direction of the COR the contractor shall replace inadequate/antiquated service entrance feeders to a stub up point with adequate grounding. The contractor shall coordinate with the local electric provider on power grid issues such as but not limited to transformer capability and wire requirements. This required additional site preparation will be performed prior to MHU hauling and installing and will be paid under CLIN 0005.

6.3 Basic Site Preparation

As directed by the COR, the Contractor shall clear and remove any debris prior to manufactured home installation. The cleared area shall provide sufficient area for MHU installation, provide occupants adequate access to the home and insure occupant safety. The site shall be crowned and graded to slope away from the manufactured home to ensure proper drainage and prevent moisture from accumulating under the unit as directed by the COR. As part of basic site preparation, the Contractor shall locate, expose, and connect water, sewer, and electrical connections whereby they can be hooked up to the unit post-installation and made serviceable.

Upgrade and/or repair site infrastructure as required to include but not limited to: electric power poles, pedestal with 200amp breaker, electric breaker box, electric meter loop assembly, single metering socket, electric wiring/conduit, necessary trenching, water, sewage, pad leveling/grading, and any necessary earth work. The Contractor shall coordinate with local utility providers, both private and municipal (including Pacific Gas and Electric PG&E) to connect unit to the local utility systems. The Contractor shall be responsible for all trenching, backfill and compaction necessary for this contract. All trenches shall be back filled, tamped or rolled to the maximum practical density to avoid settlement damage to sewer or water lines. All construction debris, waste and excess material shall be cleaned and removed from all sites following preparation. Basic site preparation is included in the Installation costs.

6.4 Requirements for Manufactured Homes

6.4a Blocking and Leveling for Manufactured Homes The Contractor shall construct piers that meet or exceed the requirements of the Local entity issuing the permits as well as the manufacturer specifications that entity. Piers must be installed at locations specified by the manufacturer. Minimum requirements for MHUs include:

• Concrete Block Piers o Piers shall consist of courses of double concrete block.

Piers will have at a minimum two (2) solid cap blocks on the base and two

(2) solid cap blocks at the top of the piers (top course to be laid perpendicular to the I-beam).

Space between the top of the pier’s solid cap block and the bottom of the I-beam frame of the MHU shall not exceed three inches (3”). Up to three inches (3”) of this space may be filled with blocking timber and wedges laid perpendicular to the I-beam, and no more than one inch (1”) of this area shall be shimmed with wedges.

o Piers will be installed on either side of each exterior door opening and any exterior openings, including windows, which are forty eight inches (48”) and wider.

o Contractor shall provide a base for each pier. The approximate size of the base is twenty four inches by twenty four inches (24”x24”) with double blocking. The contractor shall utilize an ABS type pier pad unless documentation can be provided that such pads are not readily available. In this event, a wooden three quarters inch (¾”) treated plywood may be used unless otherwise specified by State or Local code.

o Blocking height will be no more than forty four inches (44”) for Manufactured Homes, unless State or Local regulations specify a lower height.

o Contractor shall clean away all grass roots, loose dirt, rocks and debris at the base of the piers.

o After the weight of the unit is transferred to the concrete block piers, the piers must be vertically aligned and tightly shimmed with wooden wedges, the mobile home shall be level. If the piers are not vertical at the time of final inspection, they shall be removed and reinstalled by the Contractor at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor is responsible for all necessary re-leveling and re-blocking of the unit.

• Steel Piers o Individual load-bearing supports or devices must be designed and constructed with sufficient rigidity and bearing area to evenly distribute the loads carried to the footings, and the footing must be constructed of sufficient rigidity to evenly distribute the loads carried to the ground without bowing or splitting.

o A load distributing element is required for steel piers with a base formed with steel straps when it is set on two or more wood pads. The top load distributing element must be a 2x member whose width equals the width of the steel base and whose length equals the width of the multiple wood pads. Mechanical connection of all steel piers to the MH unit and to the pier footing is required.

• Height Limitations and Clearances o The maximum height of individual load-bearing piers located under the MH unit’s chassis shall not exceed thirty-six (36) inches in height (excluding the footing). When more than one-quarter (1/4) of the area of the MH unit is supported at a height of three (3) feet or more as measured between each unit’s chassis and the ground, the MH unit shall be installed on a foundation system.

No portion of the support system above the ground shall extend beyond (outside) the vertical plane of the side or end wall of the MH unit.

o A minimum clearance of eighteen (18) inches shall be maintained between the underside of the floor joists and grade level of the lot, and a minimum clearance of twelve (12) inches shall be maintained between the main chassis beams of the MH-unit and grade level of the lot.

• Frost Line o Support footings shall always be placed below the frost line depth. In areas subject to ground freezing, which typically starts at an elevation of 2800 feet and greater, contact the local building department.

• Vapor Barriers o When the manufacturer’s installation instructions require the installation of a vapor barrier on the surface of the ground, the barrier shall be installed under the footings and in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Installation of vapor barriers are only required as directed by a manufacturer’s installation instructions. A vapor barrier when installed provides a seal between the ground and the MH unit which aids in reducing the infiltration of moist cold air into the home.

6.4b Strapping and Anchoring for Manufactured Homes Strapping and anchoring shall be governed by the stricter of the stipulations found in either the manufacturer requirements, or the official instruction of the State or Local permitting entity.

The Contractor should be cognizant of the State of California seismic compliance requirements.

Strapping and anchoring must be installed at locations specified by the manufacturer for the wind zone, as established by Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for manufactured homes.

Requirements for MHUs include:

• Straps shall be one and one quarter of an inch by three and one half hundredths of an inch (1 ¼” x 35/1000” or .035) cold rolled galvanized steel, as per Federal Specification QQ-S-781 G for Type 1 Class B, Grade 1 strapping.

• Anchor straps shall be snug and in a near vertical position. The number and spacing of straps is typically dependent on the frame size for the MHU, the length and height of the piers and the wind zone.

Alternatives may be used if the Contractor can provide the COR with a current independent study by an appropriately licensed expert to support the conclusion that the alternative measure is equal to or exceeds requirements. The Contractor is responsible for ensuring it meets the applicable Local requirements.

Note: If the mobile home wheel/axle impacts the spacing of the blocking effort, the contractor shall remove that wheel and store it under the MHU in a safe and secure location. Otherwise wheels shall not be removed from the axles.

6.4c Electric Connections for Manufactured Homes The Contractor shall install all electric connections for MHUs in accordance with Federal, State, and Local regulations and codes:

• The Contractor shall provide electric runs of fifty feet (50’).

o Electric runs beyond fifty feet (50’) shall be identified, documented and require

COR approval prior to installing electric lines of more than fifty feet (50’).

o Electric line installation is measured at the external point of the MHU closest to the electrical connection for each MHU.

o The Contractor shall run electric at an excavation depth in accordance with all applicable codes.

• The electric connection shall not be connected directly into the damaged dwelling where the utility connections would interfere or prevent the dwelling from being occupied, removed, replaced, or repaired.

• When a power pole and meter loop is required.

o Contractor shall furnish and install power pole and meter loop with the appropriately sized service.

o Contractor shall install an overhead electric assembly.

o Assembly shall be appropriately sized for the MHU scheduled to be installed with a weatherproof, rain-tight meter box containing the main circuit breaker. All conduit connections on the meter pole must be watertight.

All components shall be installed in accordance with the National Electric Code (NEC). All conduit connections must be watertight. Service entrance cables shall comply with all Federal, State, and Local codes and regulations. The weatherproof disconnect box will be equipped with the appropriate breaker and mounted on either a temporary power pole or a treated dimensional lumber post (e.g., four inch by four inch (4”x4”), six inch by six inch (6”x6”), etc.) or the equivalent based on local code. The bottom of weatherproof disconnect box will be a minimum of eighteen inches (18”) above ground level. All Power Connections shall be installed as per the appropriate Federal, State and Local codes and regulations. The electrical load for each type of MHU is two hundred (200) amperages (amps).

6.4d Additional Electric Requirements for Manufactured Homes

• Manufactured Homes shall be grounded per National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70 Article 250 or National Electric Code (NEC), whichever is more stringent.

• All feeds shall enter the MHU from under the unit inside the skirting.

o If the Contractor identifies any units that are designed to be fed from overhead, the COR shall be notified.

• Connections for MHU shall be made in accordance with the manufacturer’s standard connection procedures. The Contractor shall use the following specifications:

o Cables must be buried and properly encased in the appropriate conduit in compliance with all Federal, State, and Local codes and regulations. This includes the cable for the A/C breaker and burial cable.

o The conduit shall be securely attached to the electrical boxes in accordance with accepted methods and standards and all Federal, State, and Local codes and regulations. Sweeps shall be used at the junction box and meter loop assembly.

o If an electrical service drop is not in place, the Contractor shall install an approved electrical assembly for utility company connection.

6.4f Water Connection Requirements for all MHUs The Contractor shall install all water connections for MHUs in accordance with Federal, State, and Local regulations and codes. For all MHU requirements include:

• Contractor shall provide water runs of up to fifty feet (50’).

o Water runs beyond 50’shall be identified and require COR approval prior to any installation with water lines of more than 50’.

o Water line installation is measured at the external point of the MHU closest to the water connection for each MHU.

• Contractor shall run the water line at an excavation depth a minimum of six inches (6”) below the frost line and not less than twenty-four inches (24”) below the surface of the ground with a three-quarter inch (3/4”) shut-off valve installed in the water line.

o Water service line must be placed in a trench separate from the sewer line and at a distance that is in compliance with State and Local codes, or three feet (3’) apart, whichever is greater.

o Backfill materials shall be free of rocks and other debris and shall include a bed of compacted sand 6” above and below the water line.

o Contractor is responsible for working with State and Local officials along with the COR to determine the frost line, and ensure water lines are installed at an appropriate depth.

o All excavations greater than forty-eight inches (48”) deep require prior approval from the COR before excavation begins.

o Documentation regarding the frost line should be provided to the COR prior to installation.

• A cut-off valve and a hose bib with anti-siphon valve shall be located adjacent to the unit connecting point, and must be in a convenient location to facilitate shut-off of water to unit and make a water hose connection.

• Water lines shall be 3/4” schedule 40 PVC plastic pipe, ASTM D-1785, 3/4” CPS 200 psi, or equal, subject to prior approval (any other pipe material will require prior approval by the COR). A back flow preventer valve will be properly installed.

• Water connection shall not be connected directly into the damaged dwelling where the utility connections would interfere or prevent the dwelling from being occupied, removed, replaced, or repaired.

• Contractor shall test the installed service line for leakage, and any leaks shall be repaired at no additional cost to the government.

• Contractor shall contact the COR for instruction and approval if pavement or concrete must be removed and replaced.

• Where Local water pressure is in excess of the manufacturer’s recommended maximum psi, the Contractor shall install an approved water pressure-reducing device to safeguard the unit’s plumbing system.

• Above grade service lines beneath the MHU shall be installed clear of the ground, made with the minimum number of joints, be of the shortest practical length, and be supported at a maximum of four foot (4’) intervals with steel strapping, and incased in weatherproofing material.

• Water piping shall be installed in accordance with State and Local codes, and the Uniform Plumbing Code.

At sites with an existing water service riser, the Contractor shall make the connection between the connection point of the MHU and the riser. If the water service riser is not in place, the Contractor will make an appropriate tap on the water service line, and install the necessary piping and riser connection to connect the MHU to the service line. When municipal water tap is required, the Contractor shall perform all necessary excavation and installation to connect the MHU to the water supply, according to State and Local requirements. The Contractor shall also backfill and compact any holes or trenches created. The installation of the water tap (if required) will be accomplished in conjunction with, and according to the regulations of the Local Water Company. Only if required by Local regulations, the trench shall not be backfilled until the water tap has been inspected and approved by the water department. In the event the governing entity has a predetermined fee for water taps, such a fee shall be paid by the Contractor.

6.4g Water Line Winterization The Contractor shall install freeze protection heat tape and insulate the water supply piping and shut-off valves to prevent freeze-up of the system. The heat tape shall be installed in compliance with the cable manufacturer’s instructions. A copy of these instructions is to be provided to the COR. If the Contractor uses heat tape and insulation from multiple manufacturers, instructions from each of the manufacturers must be supplied to the COR. The heat cable shall be Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listed Commercial Pipe Heating Cable and be rated at a minimum of three (3) watts per foot at one hundred and twenty (120) volts and have provisions for grounding. The heat cable shall be of a type that will not damage PVC or other non-metallic water pipe under the heat cable installation procedures required therein. The heat cable shall be installed in compliance with the cable manufacturer’s instructions and the following additional details:

• Sealed end of the heat cable will be securely fastened to the unit water pipe at a point that is above grade and installed approximately eighteen inches (18”) down the riser pipe and then wrapped up the riser into the manufactured home water heater compartment for a minimum of two inches (2”). The heat cable shall be applied to the outside of the bend at elbows and securely fastened with tape. If a contradiction arises between wrapping the pipe and the manufactures recommendation, the contractor shall follow the manufactures recommendations.

• Preformed insulation and weatherproof covering shall be placed on the pipe and fastened with a continuous strap of weather resistant tape not to be overlapped. The insulation, covering and tape shall extend into the water riser sleeve and water heater compartment approximately twelve inches (12”) with the sealed end of the heat cable covered. Riser shall be filled with an appropriate insulation and top of riser shall be sealed with an appropriate cover.

6.4h Sewer Line Installation The Contractor shall install all sewer connections for MHUs in accordance with Federal, State, and Local regulations and codes. For all Manufactured Homes requirements include:

• The Contractor shall provide utility runs of fifty feet (50’).

o Sewer runs beyond 50’ shall be identified and require COR approval prior to any installation.

o Sewer line installation is measured at the external point of the MHU closest to the sewer connection for each MHU.

• The Contractor shall run sewer lines at an excavation depth up to forty-eight inches

(48”) below the surface.

o Water service line must be placed in a trench separate from the sewer line and at a distance that is in compliance with State and Local codes, or three feet (3’) apart, whichever is greater.

o If the frost line exceeds 48”, utilities shall be run at an excavation depth six inches (6”) below the frost line.

o Contractor is responsible for working with State and Local officials to determine the frost line, and ensure sewer lines are installed at an appropriate depth.

o All excavations greater than 48” deep require prior approval from the COR before excavation begins.

o Documentation regarding the frost line should be provided to the COR prior to installation.

o Above grade service lines beneath the MHU shall be installed clear of the ground, made with the minimum number of joints, be of the shortest practical length, and be supported at a maximum of four foot (4’) intervals with steel strapping.

At sites with sewer riser already installed, the Contractor will make the connection between the connecting point and the riser up to the sewer line. If a sewer riser is not in place, the Contractor will make an appropriate sewer tap on the sewer collection line and install the necessary piping and riser connection. A clean-out fitting will be installed inside the skirting of the MHU, in an accessible location, to facilitate snaking-out a clogged line from the connection point, through the riser and into the main or service line. The pipe fitting that attaches the sewer connection to the drain outlet of the manufactured home shall be threaded and screwed or installed with a removable adapter for the drain outlet. The nominal inside diameter of the unit sewer connection shall not be less than three inches (3”). The slope of the sewer line shall be continuous and at least one-quarter inch (1/4”) per foot and no more than one-half inch (1/2”) per foot. With COR approval above ground sewer lines shall be supported at four foot (4’) intervals (maximum) to prevent any deflections and thrust blocks shall be added at any 90 degree turns. The fitting between the unit sewer line and sewer riser (placed above ground) will comply with all appropriate plumbing, safety, and health codes and requirements. This includes:

• An approved four inch by three inch (4”x3”) adapter. The lower end of the unit sewer line shall extend at least four inches (4”) below the rim of the riser with an air tight connection provided by the use of a rubber ring.

• Pipe shall be an approved and appropriate rigid PVC sewer pipe utilizing proper primer and cement.

• When given COR approval for above ground sewer installation the piping above ground will be wrapped in appropriate material to prevent freezing at sub-zero temperatures.

• Absolutely no flex-hose allowed.

When a tap into the municipal sewage system is necessary, the Contractor shall excavate, install the tap, and connect to the sewer line from the unit and backfill, according to Local requirements. The sewer tap shall be made in accordance with Local regulations regarding sewer tap installations. In the event the governing entity has a predetermined fee for sewer taps, such fee shall be paid by the Contractor. The Contractor shall test the sewer line for leakage, and any leaks shall be repaired at no additional cost to the government. All sewer piping and installation shall be installed in accordance with Local codes and the Uniform Plumbing Code. If the unit has multiple sewer drop points, they will be interconnected to a single unit drop point.

6.4i Install and Test HVAC The Contractor shall install the HVAC system provided with the MHU using properly qualified personnel and / or personnel who are licensed under State or Local codes, as applicable. FEMA MHU’s either come with the entire HVAC system attached to the MHU or with an air conditioning compressor unit that requires installation separate from the MHU. Installation of all HVAC components, including any external compressor, shall be in compliance with the manufactures instructions. Additional requirements for all types of MHUs include:

• Contractor must obtain appropriate permits and meet all Local codes and ordinances pertaining to the installation of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit.

• All components shall be installed in accordance with State and Local codes, as well as the National Electric Code (NEC).

• Contractor is responsible for supplying all the materials for this installation, with the exception of the A/C compressor unit which is provided as Government furnished equipment with the unit.

• External A/C unit electrical installation includes burial cable and thirty (30) amps breaker (disconnect switch) as part of the installation.

o A/C unit must be located within ten feet (10’) of the A/C electrical breaker.

o Contractor shall provide underground service, in compliance with all codes and regulations, from the electrical service to the A/C unit.

• All cables shall be installed and encased in approved conduit.

• Sweeps shall be used at the points where buried cable makes a ninety degree (90°) turn toward the meter loop assembly and A/C. All conduit connections must be watertight.

• Ensure the damper and rheostats are properly set, as appropriate for the local environment and weather conditions.

Prior to reporting the unit RFO and requesting a Government acceptance inspection the Contractor shall operate the heat and A/C units for at least thirty (30) continuous minutes to ensure that they are fully operable to ensure proper function and reliability. HVAC unit installation shall be considered part of the basic unit installation.

6.4j Skirting The Contractor shall furnish and install skirting for all MHUs. Skirting shall be installed in accordance with Federal, State and Local codes. The tongue shall be skirted if required by a commercial park owner or Local regulations. The Contractor shall furnish and install vinyl insulated skirting on the entire perimeter of manufactured home in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and normal standards of industry. The material shall have at least an acceptable R-value as specified by local codes, and or with 1 7/8” of foam backing. The material must be self-ventilating and have a top rail to conceal top fasteners. An access panel or equivalent shall be provided adjacent to the manufactured home water inlet location. The skirting shall be securely fastened to the manufactured home and ground using accepted fastening methods. (Nails will not be accepted).

6.4k Stairs, Platform Steps, and Ramps Stairs, platform steps and ramps shall not be affixed to the Mobile Home proper.

6.4l Stairs The Contractor shall install steps at each entrance to the MHU. All steps shall be constructed so that they meet the applicable State and Local code. If no Local code exists, the Contractor shall notify the COR in writing and use the most recent version of the International Building Code

(IBC) as of the date the work order is executed. The following specifications apply to all steps:

• All steps shall be built to require no maintenance unless they are impacted by a distressing event at the discretion of the COR.

• Steps shall have a stable, anchored foundation and must be level in both directions.

• Alternate materials for step construction approved by State or Local code enforcement may be substituted with the COR’s approval.

o Contractor is responsible for providing supporting documentation of the State or

Local approval of substitute material.

o Approval does not waive any safety requirements. If the steps present a safety hazard, the Contractor shall build steps and platforms appropriately as determined by the COR.

As a standard, steps will have:

• Decking screws instead of nails

• A forty-eight inch (48”) tread width.

• A center stringer to support 400lb loading at each step.

• No less than an eleven inch (11”) tread depth.

• Stair risers with a minimum of six and one-half inches (6-1/2”) and maximum of seven and one-half inches (7½”).

• Top platform shall be sixty inches by sixty inches (60”x60”) framed with two inch by six inch (2”x6”) treated lumber, with joist spacing of sixteen inches (16”) on center.

o The platform shall be constructed to be level with the MHU entry and the door must be able to open and shut freely without blocking the stairs.

• Top surface of all steps and platform shall be painted with a skid resistant paint material. Stick on adhesives and sand added to paint are NOT permissible.

• Steps shall be constructed so that water will NOT accumulate on the walking surface.

• Two (2) handrails and shall include vertical balusters or pickets spaced in such a way that a four inch (4”) diameter sphere may not pass through them. This includes all stairs unless specifically prohibited by Federal, State, and Local codes and regulations.

o Handrails shall be painted with one coat of white exterior grade paint. Each set of stairs will have two (2) grab rails.

o Grab rails should be between one and one-quarter inch (1¼”) and one and one-half inch (1½”), or the shape shall provide an equivalent gripping surface.

o If grab rails are mounted adjacent to a wall, the space between the wall and the grab rail shall be one and one-half inch (1½”).

• Stairs shall be constructed of treated outdoor building material. One and one-quarter inch (1¼”) decking material shall be used for all steps and platform surfaces, and two inch (2”) treated material is required for support runners.

• All installations of stairs must ensure that the structure does not block or interfere with any vents or other parts of the MHU.

• Each stair step shall have a riser/kick plate in compliance with the international building code.

• Steps should be set to the latch side of the door or center unless approved in advance by the COR.

6.4m Uniform Federal Accessability Standards (UFAS) for Ramp Construction The Contractor shall ensure that ramps are built and installed in accordance with the current UFAS specifications, at the time of work order execution, unless UFAS conflicts with State or Local regulations in which case the more stringent regulations are applicable. The Contractor shall install a wooden ramp with a platform level with the entry. The platform provides an area that is flush with the entry and allows the occupant to access or egress the MHU. The overall length of the ramp shall be dependent on the height above the grade of the unit door sill and the distance to a suitable, firm surface for the approach to the ramp. To ensure consistent measurement of ramps for invoicing and authorization purposes the Contractor shall measure the ramp starting where the ramp slopes away from the upper platform which provides access to the MHU. The upper platform shall not be included in the measurment of the ramp. If the ramp has one or more switchback platforms then the Contractor shall measure the switchback along its longest length of the platform. The UFAS required transition (access pad) at the bottom of the ramp is not included in the ramp measurement. The ramp pitch shall be one to twelve (1:12) maximum, which represents one inch (1”) of height maximum for each twelve inches (12”) in length and shall have landings at the top, bottom, and every thirty feet (30’) in length. Platforms must be sixty inch by sixty inch (60”x60”) square. Landings where direction does not change needs to be a minimum of 60 inches long and the same width of the ramp.

Ramp surfaces shall be firm, stable, and slip resistant. Suitable surface materials are asphalt, concrete, or engineered boardwalks. The Contractor may supply modular aluminum ramps that are compliant with UFAS in lieu of wood ramps. These ramps must be acceptable by State and Local authorities, and must comply with the foregoing requirements.The ramp shall be firmly supported on grade, with mud seals added where necessitated by soil conditions. The ramp and the platform shall have a non-skid surface using materials that are approved by industry.

Sand added to paint for traction is unacceptable. Please use the web address shown below for further details: http://www.access-board.gov/

6.4n Strapping and Anchoring of All Stairs and Ramps The Contractor shall install anchors to ensure the stairs or ramp are secure in accordance with Federal, State, and Local regulations and codes. All anchors must be placed, driven, or augured so that the individual anchor will withstand a withdrawal pull with no more than two inches (2”) vertical displacements.