Fire Alarm & Fire Suppression System Testing and Inspection

The State of Maine Department of Corrections has issued Request for Proposals (RFP) #202511156 for comprehensive fire alarm and fire suppression system testing and inspection services across six correctional facilities statewide. The procurement is structured into two distinct service packages: Package 1 covers fire alarms, panels, wet and dry sprinkler systems, anti-freeze systems, fire hydrants, and backflow preventors with quarterly and annual inspection intervals, while Package 2 focuses on fire extinguishers and hood agent systems with annual inspections. The contract seeks qualified vendors to conduct periodic testing and evaluations at facilities including Maine Correctional Center, Women's Reentry Center, Maine State Prison, Bolduc Correctional Facility, Mountain View Correctional Facility, and Downeast Correctional Facility. Vendor personnel must possess active professional licenses in areas such as backflow certification, fire sprinkler system contracting, inspection technician certification, and mobile elevated work platform (MEWP) certification. Proposals will be evaluated on a 100-point scale, with 30 points for organizational qualifications, 20 points for proposed services, and 50 points for cost proposal, with the lowest cost receiving maximum points. Key deadlines include questions due by December 30, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., and proposals due January 20, 2026 by 4:00 p.m. through the Vendor Self Service (VSS) system.

The RFP does not specify specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The initial contract period will run from March 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028, with two optional renewal periods potentially extending through June 30, 2031. All vendor personnel will be required to undergo background checks and comply with Maine Department of Corrections security regulations. Inspections must be conducted during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and will require coordination with facility maintenance superintendents and local fire stations. The Department reserves the right to make multiple awards and may award packages separately, indicating potential for multiple vendors to be selected. Vendors currently not providing maintenance or servicing the Department's existing fire alarm and suppression systems are eligible to bid. Successful bidders must submit inspection reports identifying any deficiencies within seven days of completion and must adhere to all applicable NFPA standards and state fire codes. While specific budget ranges are not disclosed, the comprehensive nature of the services across six facilities suggests a significant potential contract value.