ITT for Survey and Treament for Timber Preservation Framework
A practical guide to understanding what Dundee City Council really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about timber treatment
When you look at this framework, it might seem like it's all about treating timber.
But Dundee City Council is looking for more than that.
They want reliable partners who can handle the complexities of maintaining domestic properties.
This framework, valued at £5.2 million, covers dry and wet rot surveys, woodworm infestations and chemical mould removal.
It's divided into three lots: surface treatments, invasive treatments and fogging.
The aim is to appoint three to five competent contractors per lot.
Think about the residents
Yes, you're working on properties.
But every treatment impacts residents' lives.
Dundee City Council will be thinking about the disruption to tenants and homeowners.
How will you minimise inconvenience?
Consider your scheduling, communication and sensitivity to the needs of those living in the homes you treat.
Winning a place is the first win
Remember, this is a framework.
Your initial goal is to win a place on it.
Treat your submission as a serious bid.
It's not just an expression of interest.
Make sure your pricing and quality submissions are competitive and convincing.
Pay attention to what they say
Dundee City Council is clear about their needs.
They want a minimum of three and a maximum of five contractors per lot.
This means competition is tight.
They'll choose based on who scores highest, so your submission must stand out.
The focus isn't just on capability but on reliability and track record.
Evidence always wins over promises
I've seen many bidders make big promises.
Fewer provide evidence.
Use your past experience to show you can deliver.
Evidence I'd include:
- Testimonials from previous projects
- Case studies of similar work
- Certificates of competence and safety records
- Details of your project management processes
Don't stretch yourself too thin
You can apply for all the lots.
But think about where you can genuinely deliver.
If you overreach, you risk failing to meet the standards expected.
Focus on the lots where you have the strongest experience and resources.
Show you're ready for further competition
Winning a place isn't the end.
It's just the beginning.
Be ready for further competition for call-offs.
Understand that buyers will look for efficiency and reliability in call-off contracts.
Show how you can quickly mobilise and deliver consistently high standards.
Keep long-term standards in mind
Consistency is key over the framework's 720-day duration.
How will you maintain standards across that time?
Consider your strategies for:
- Staff training and retention
- Quality control processes
- Handling absences and emergencies
Buyers will be looking for stability and reliability.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This framework isn't just about timber.
It's about trust.
Dundee City Council is looking for partners they can rely on.
Every part of your submission should reflect that understanding.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Fail to address the specific requirements of each lot
- Overpromise without providing evidence
- Stretch resources too thin by applying for all lots without capacity
- Neglect resident impact and communication strategies
- Ignore the competitive nature of the framework
- Overlook the importance of long-term consistency
- Miss out on showcasing past success stories
- Underestimate the importance of a strong quality submission
My Final Thoughts
Dundee City Council is looking for reliable partners who understand the impact of their work on residents and properties.
With a framework value of £5.2 million, there's a lot at stake.
Focus on the quality of your submission, as the highest scoring bidders will be selected.
Winning a place on this framework is your first goal.
From there, be prepared for further competition and demonstrate your ability to deliver consistently.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.