Construction: tendering and contract

Tendering and contract

The project contract and tendered drawings, including details, notes, ESC requirements, material specifications, and testing requirements should align. Given that most standard contract templates do not include wording specific to LID construction, considerations for LID can be placed under special provisions within the contract.

Details within the drawings and contract should also be accurately reflected in the tender bid form. A detailed bid form that reflects the entirety of the work allows contractors to deliver accurate bids, lessens the likelihood of project shortcuts, and helps to ensure transparency amongst bids. Ultimately, clear bid pricing reduces the potential for misunderstandings and conflicts and attracts experienced contractors.

Be sure to verify all design changes

A simple departure from the design—installing a T-junction in place of a Y-junction—would have made it extremely difficult or impossible to inspect this underdrain and flush it out.

Minimum contractor requirements

Many contractors are unfamiliar with building LID practices, so project managers should consider minimum contractor requirements. Contractor training, attendance at pre-bid meetings, LID project references, and bid bond insurance can be part of the requirements.

Low Impact Development. A stormwater management strategy that seeks to mitigate the impacts of increased urban runoff and stormwater pollution by managing it as close to its source as possible. It comprises a set of site design approaches and small scale stormwater management practices that promote the use of natural systems for infiltration and evapotranspiration, and rainwater harvesting.

A perforated pipe used to assist the draining of soils.