Q: How do I get notified when a bid is open?
A: You can sign up to be notified that a bid is being opened by filling out this form on our website or by emailing hannah@habitatcentralar.org. Please include at least the first name and email address of each person wishing to be notified. We prefer to have first name, last name, company name, email address, and phone number. Please note that we are not able to notify based on area of work, so you will be notified of all bids when they are posted.
Q: I have a question about something in a bid request. Who should I contact?
A: Please read and follow the instructions in the bid packet to contact the appropriate person. Each bid packet has a contact person for general bidding questions and a contact person for questions about scope of work/specifications.
Please DO NOT submit a general request form through the website or call the general office number. If you do, there may be a delay in receiving a response to your question!
Q: How long are bids open? Why isn’t there a longer time frame in which a bid can be submitted?
A: The length a bid is open is based on the specific project and timing we are facing. It is dependent on a number of factors: size and complexity of job, timing of project, complimentary work being done, any requirements from funders, etc. Certain federally funded projects have minimum advertising requirements, which we always meet or exceed.
Q: I have already submitted some of these same copies and forms with past bids. I know you already have them. Do I really need to resubmit this stuff?
A: Yes. Every bid must include all of the required paperwork listed, even if you have submitted it before. We are working on a process to make this easier in the future, but for now, please include ALL required information or your bid may be rejected.
Q: How is my bond check handled?
A: If you do not win a bid, your check will be returned as soon as possible. If you do win a bid, your check will be deposited. You will be reimbursed after the job is complete, with the payment of your last invoice.
Q: I do not understand some of the Federal Requirements in the bid request. What should I do?
A: For more information about federal requirements, please read and follow the instructions in the bid packet and contact the appropriate person if you have questions. Each bid packet has a contact person for general bidding questions, who should be able to answer your questions and assist you with the forms.
Please DO NOT submit a general request form through the website or call the general office number. If you do, there may be a delay in receiving a response to your question!
Q: Why do different bids require different paperwork?
A: Depending on where funding for a home or a project is coming from, the process may be slightly different. For instance, if we are using federal funding, there are certain federal certifications that are required from any contractor. However if we are building a house with all private donations, those certifications may not be needed. We always meet or exceed the requirements of our funders.
Q: What does it mean to be a “pre-qualified bidder” for Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas or for the Pulaski County Neighborhood Alliance for Habitat? How do I become a Pre-Qualified Bidder?
A: Please complete the Pre-Qualified Bidder Packet, which can be downloaded here. You will be required to submit a basic application along with forms and copies that we frequently need for bids.
Pre-Qualified Bidders submitting bids will only need to sign a certification that you are a Pre-Qualified Bidder and that none of your information has changed or needs to be updated, then submit the pricing for your bid on the Bid Form. You will not have to complete the basic bid package information again.
Please note: This DOES NOT mean that you get any preference as a bidder!
Q: What is the Pulaski County Neighborhood Alliance for Habitat? Why are some bids from this organization?
A: The Pulaski County Neighborhood Alliance for Habitat (PCNAH) is a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas. PCNAH is a type of organization known as a Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO), which is an organization working in the area of affordable housing that meets certain federal guidelines about capacity, experience, and structure. Certain types of funding may only be received and used by a qualified CHDO. Any projects utilizing these special types of funding will be bid out by PCNAH.
