Leak Detection Dog Services

The City of Austin is requesting proposals for trained leak detection dog and professional services to support water loss control and wastewater system efficiency under IFB 2200 DCG1041, with proposals due September 24, 2026. The City of Austin's Small Business Preference Program applies; small business primes are eligible for full preference, and non-small businesses using small business subcontractors are eligible for partial preference if combined small business subcontracting values meet or exceed 5 percent of total contract value. Participation is optional. All offerors must certify compliance with the City of Austin Wage Theft Ordinance (Austin City Code Chapter 4, Sections 4-22-1(G) and (H)) and complete wage theft training within 30 days of award.

The scope requires a trained leak detection dog certified in detecting treated potable water and wastewater leaks, paired with a handler meeting minimum qualifications. The contractor must demonstrate at least three years of documented experience in training or providing working dogs for detection purposes, with specific experience in leak detection within potable water and wastewater utility environments. The handler must have a minimum of two years of experience with the specific dog provided and be trained in interpreting alerts and preparing detailed reports. Handlers must employ certified professional dog trainers and handlers credentialed by recognized organizations such as the National Association of Canine Scent Work or American Working Dog Association. The dog must be non-aggressive and temperamentally suited for public utility environments, maintain current veterinary records and vaccinations, and demonstrate safe operation around traffic, construction sites, utility equipment, and groups of people. Bidders must provide at least three references from municipalities or utilities that have used their leak detection dog services within the past five years and must submit documentation of all qualifications, certifications, veterinary records, and handler experience.

Insurance requirements include Workers' Compensation and Employers' Liability ($100,000 per accident / $500,000 by disease); Commercial General Liability ($500,000 per occurrence); and Business Automobile Liability ($500,000 combined single limits). The City must be named additional insured with 30 days' notice of cancellation required.