Natural Gas Testing Services at RSSLC

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is requesting bids for natural gas testing services at Richmond State Supported Living Center (RSSLC), with bids due July 2, 2026. This is a competitive invitation for bid (IFB) under solicitation HHS0017555.

The scope comprises semi-annual underground gas distribution system inspection and survey (1 unit annually), biennial interior gas line inspection and pressure testing (2 units annually), quarterly leak testing on all valves and meters (40 units annually), and as-needed repairs by licensed plumbers at standard hourly rates (10 hours estimated annually). Additional line items include emergency/holiday hourly rates for licensed plumber repairs and overtime rates, all under NIGP Class Item 92693. Parts markup is capped at 20% on an estimated annual cost of $5,000. Requested quantities are estimated based on historical utilization and provided for evaluation purposes only, with no guarantee of volume, usage, or total compensation.

Bidders must submit individual unit prices for each service category in US dollars on the provided Pricing Schedule (Exhibit C-1) or submit a no-bid response. Pricing is evaluated as a component of overall bid responsiveness and responsibility; award is anticipated to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder meeting all technical specifications.

Bidders must submit at least three verifiable references for similar contracts completed within the last three years, including business name, point of contact, service description, and performance dates. Company background information must include years in business, office address, current staffing levels, geographic operational limits, relevant industry certifications, applicable personnel licenses, and a one-page narrative of experience and qualifications. Bidders must designate a minimum of two 24-hour emergency contacts with name, phone, and email.

Contract affirmations and Uniform Terms and Conditions (Exhibit B) establish suspension and debarment certification, conflict of interest disclosures, fraud and abuse reporting, E-Verify utilization, cybersecurity training compliance, and compliance with federal, state, and local law. All work product and intellectual property are owned exclusively by the System Agency. Contractors must maintain records for seven years post-contract completion and provide unrestricted access for audit and investigation. The Texas Prompt Payment Act governs payment; the System Agency reserves termination rights for convenience or cause.

New HHSC payees must submit Form 4109 (Application for Texas Identification Number). Bids may be submitted electronically through the HHS Online Bid Room (optional) or in person at PCS, 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756, during business hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Contact Kimberly Andrews at HHS Purchasing or the PCS Help Desk at 512-438-4720 or 855-435-7181 (toll-free) for submission assistance.