RFP #1113-P-2526 Fire Protection Systems Testing, Inspection and Maintenance Services

Portsmouth Public Schools in Portsmouth, Virginia is requesting proposals for fire protection systems testing, inspection, and maintenance services under RFP #1113-P-2526, with proposals due July 6, 2026. The solicitation is subject to Portsmouth Public Schools' Minority/Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) participation goals and good-faith-effort requirements.

The scope encompasses comprehensive fire protection systems testing, inspection, and maintenance across Portsmouth Public Schools facilities, including sprinkler systems, fire alarms, suppression systems, and related components. Contractors must maintain appropriate licensing and certifications for fire protection systems work and comply with applicable federal and state safety regulations.

M/WBE participation goals are 5% for construction prime contractors, 9% for construction subcontractors, 22% for professional services, 19% for other services, and 15% for goods. Vendors unable to meet project-specific M/WBE dollar-value goals must demonstrate good faith efforts by earning a minimum of 50 points from twelve enumerated categories, including M/WBE outreach and notification (at least ten days prior to bid due date), project-document availability, work-unit breakdown, M/WBE assistance organization collaboration, pre-bid attendance, bonding or insurance assistance, good faith negotiation, financial assistance, joint ventures, quick-pay agreements, and documented M/WBE participation on prior contracts within eighteen months. Vendors electing to self-perform must provide documentation of similar past projects completed with their own workforce over the prior three years and any prior contract experiences with certified M/WBE businesses. Liquidated damages for M/WBE breaches range from $20,000 to $30,000 depending on breach type. Certified M/WBEs are accepted from the Commonwealth of Virginia's Department of Minority Business Enterprises, Women Business Enterprise Council, and Carolina-Virginia Supplier Diversity Council.

All bidders must submit debarment certifications, State Corporation Commission (SCC) compliance documentation (SCC identification number, out-of-state entity confirmation, or legal counsel opinion), Contractor Employee Background Certification under Virginia Code 22.1-296.1, and W-9 forms. Failure to include any required certification renders a bid non-responsive.