This section applies to the purchase of construction. When the guidelines of this section conflict with any other guidelines of the Supplying Practices, the guidelines of this section govern.
Construction means construction, alteration, repair (including painting and improvements of all types), environmental work (asbestos abatement, underground septic tank (UST) removal/replacement, etc.), and demolition of buildings, structures, and improvements of all types. The term does not include other investigative work such as engineering, environmental or other studies that is not part of the beginning of the construction process. Normally, construction does not include any construction work pursuant to a lease and performed by the lessor (see Handbook RE-1, Realty Acquisitions and Management).
Generally, construction is purchased in accordance with the process steps in the Supplying Practices. Suppliers should be prequalified, and depending on the particular business situation, purchase or prequalification opportunities may be publicized in accordance with Section 2-27, Issue RFPs and Publicize Requirements. When the contracting officer determines that the price proposed by a lessor offers the best value to the Postal Service, alterations, repairs, and improvements to be accomplished by the lessor may be performed without competition. The bonding requirements discussed in Section 7-3, Bonds, Insurance, and Taxes, must be met for all construction contracts.
