S20 Lifts - Avondale, Selwyn Morris & Galleon
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Think beyond the lifts themselves
At first glance, this tender might seem all about the lifts.
Design, manufacture, supply, installation and commissioning.
But if I were evaluating these bids, I'd be looking for more than just technical compliance.
I'd be looking for reliability, safety and a solution that fits seamlessly into the existing environment.
This contract covers vertical transportation systems at three locations: Avondale Court, Galleon Way Flats and Selwyn Morris Court.
Each of these places has its own unique needs.
Don't just tick the technical box
When you're preparing your submission, remember that ticking the technical box isn't enough.
The buyer is interested in how you will meet the performance criteria set out in CIBSE Guide D.
But they're also keen on safety, reliability and maintainability.
To stand out, demonstrate how you will ensure these outcomes, not just comply with standards.
Pay attention to what they say
One thing that stands out is the emphasis on the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) evaluation.
Quality and price are equally weighted at 50% each.
This means that your written submission matters as much as your price.
You need to be competitive on both fronts.
Show how you'll make life easier for CCHA
Every installation project brings challenges.
If I were writing this tender, I'd focus on how my processes smooth the way for the Cardiff Community Housing Association.
Think about your methodology, delivery approach, programme and resource planning.
How do you mitigate risks and manage health and safety?
These are key concerns for the buyer.
Evidence always beats promises
Promises of great service are common.
But evidence is what really convinces.
If you have a track record of similar projects, highlight it.
- Case studies of successful installations
- Testimonials from satisfied clients
- Awards or recognitions for safety and reliability
- Detailed risk assessments and safety policies
These all add up to a stronger submission.
Remember the people using the lifts
It's not just about the mechanics.
Think about the residents who will use these lifts every day.
Reliability isn't just a word—it's a necessity.
Show how your design and maintenance plans put their needs first.
Methodology isn't just a formality
Your project method statement is a critical part of your submission.
This isn't just about ticking boxes.
It's about showing a clear, logical approach to the entire process.
Design, manufacture, delivery, installation and commissioning.
Each step should be detailed with your proposed methods, timelines and resource allocation.
Consistency over the whole term
Consistency is hard to achieve, but it's what buyers want.
How will you ensure standards are maintained from start to finish?
Staffing, contingency plans and quality control measures are crucial.
The buyer will want to see that you have a plan for every eventuality.
Avoid submissions that:
- Fail to provide a detailed methodology for each lot
- Offer generic statements instead of evidence of past performance
- Ignore the specific requirements of each site
- Neglect health and safety documentation
- Miss the balance between quality and price
- Provide unclear cost breakdowns
- Don't address how you will maintain standards over time
- Overlook the importance of user experience for residents
My Final Thoughts
Ultimately, this tender is as much about the people as it is about the lifts.
The Cardiff Community Housing Association is looking for a partner who can deliver safe, reliable and maintainable solutions.
The project is valued at £270,000 and runs from 1 February 2027 to 1 June 2027.
With a 50/50 quality and price weighting, your written submission carries significant weight.
Make sure it reflects the quality and reliability you can deliver.
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.