Leak Detection Services

Charlotte Water is seeking a comprehensive leak detection services contract for residential, commercial, and city-owned properties within Mecklenburg County and Charlotte City, North Carolina. The Request for Proposals (RFP# FY26-RFP-20) targets companies capable of providing as-needed leak detection services for two service groups: Field Operations Division (city-side of water meters) and Customer Services Division (customer-side of water meters). Proposed services include locating and verifying water lines requiring repairs, with mandatory same-day reporting detailing leak identification steps and relevant information. Vendors must respond to service orders within 24 hours, prioritizing emergency requests, and utilize advanced leak detection technologies. The RFP requires companies to demonstrate expertise in water infrastructure leak detection, with pricing structured as a flat rate per service order request for mobilization and assessment, plus additional hourly rates for service completion during and outside business hours. A non-mandatory virtual pre-proposal conference is scheduled for November 17, 2025, with proposal submissions due on December 3, 2025, by 2:00 p.m. The contract is anticipated to be awarded in January 2026, with services commencing on February 7, 2026.

The City of Charlotte emphasizes the Charlotte Business INClusion program, which seeks to enhance opportunities for Minority-owned, Woman-owned, and Small Business Enterprises (MWSBEs) in the contracting process. Bidders are required to complete an MWSBE Utilization form detailing their strategies for including City-certified Small Business Enterprises (SBE), Minority-owned Business Enterprises (MBE), and Woman-owned Business Enterprises (WBE) in their proposed work. Contractors must provide comprehensive safety documentation, including a written safety and health program, employee safety training records, and insurance certificates covering workers' compensation, commercial general liability, and automobile liability. The contract will have an initial two-year term with options for three additional one-year renewals. While no specific budget range is explicitly stated, the pricing worksheet indicates that unit prices will be quoted for various service categories, with potential for price adjustments subject to strict City approval processes. Vendors must also comply with local, state, and federal regulations, with a strong emphasis on safety, environmental protection, and transparent business practices.