Decision

RESOLVED that approval is given to award the contract for the following projects as described below:

i)      Fire Risk Assessment of External Wall (FRAEW): 

Approve the award of the contract to Firntec Ltd for a total sum of £175,580 + VAT, (£210,696 inclusive of VAT). The contract term is 12 months.

ii)     Fire Risk Assessment Surveys (All Stocks):

Approve the award of the contract to Inspectas Compliance Ltd for the sum of £236,440 + VAT, (£283,728 inclusive of VAT). The contract term is 36 months.

Reasons for the decision

Procure and deliver part of the Housing Capital Programme for 2026-2028, which is the largest ever stock re-investment programme Harlow has ever undertaken, totaling £162m over two years.  This programme will significantly improve the homes of residents and will keep tenants and leaseholders safe.

Alternative options considered

Do Nothing The option to make no change was considered but rejected, as it would result in the continuation of inconsistent and reactive service delivery, limiting the Council’s ability to meet demand effectively and achieve value for money. It would also reduce overall assurance, coordination, and alignment with statutory duties and strategic priorities.

Carry Out the Services in House The option to deliver services/works fully in-house was also considered but not progressed. While some elements may be delivered internally, the scale, complexity, and varied nature of housing-related works require access to a broader range of skills, capacity, and specialist expertise. An external multi-supplier approach therefore provides greater flexibility, resilience, and the ability to respond effectively to changing demand.