IFB - Multi-provider On-Call, and As-Needed Title and Escrow Services in Humboldt County

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is seeking multi-provider on-call and as-needed Title and Escrow Services for property acquisitions in Humboldt County. This Invitation for Bid (IFB) solicits comprehensive title and escrow services, including preliminary title reports for 50 estimated parcels, title record searches, document preparation, recording fees, title report updates, and residential and commercial title insurance policies. Bidders must be title and escrow companies regulated by the California Department of Insurance, with valid licensing and specific service capabilities. The procurement covers 112 line items of services related to supporting future State highway facility acquisitions. Key deadlines include a written question submission deadline of December 9, 2025, with bids due December 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, followed by a bid opening at 2:30 p.m. the same day. The proposed award date is December 23, 2025, with the Agreement expected to commence April 1, 2026, and expire March 31, 2031, with potential for a one-year amendment for open escrow orders.

The solicitation includes specific set-aside provisions and preferences for small businesses (SB), micro-businesses (MB), and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprises (DVBE). Small business and micro-business bidders receive a five percent preference, capped at $50,000, while DVBE participants can receive a five percent incentive for 100% verified participation, with a combined incentive and preference dollar cap of $100,000. Bidders must provide proof of insurance with $1,000,000 per occurrence for general liability and $1,000,000 combined single limit for auto liability. The contract allows for up to two lowest responsive and responsible bidders to be awarded, with work assignments proceeding from the lowest-ranked bidder to the second-lowest. Third-party reconveyance and subordination fees will be reimbursed at actual cost up to ten percent of the subtotal, with individual reimbursements capped at $1,000 without prior written approval. Bidders must also comply with state certifications including the Darfur Contracting Act, California Civil Rights Laws, and executive orders regarding Russia sanctions and Generative AI disclosure.