Contact:

Property Team Tel: 01992 588122

Changes to Property Contractors and Consultants

Consultancy Contracts and Services Feb 2012

Under existing arrangements, many schools have individual contracts in place with Mouchel, or another similar provider, for property maintenance consultancy and a reactive helpdesk provision.  The notice periods for contracts with Mouchel can be given any time during the year, but no later than two months before the renewal date in April 2012. Mouchel can be contacted on 0800 547547 for further details.

The framework for the provision of Construction Related Property Management services (CRPM) in place from September 2011 lasts for the four years to 2015.  This offers schools the option to obtain consultancy advise, in addition Lot D has been designed specifically to provide building management services to for maintenance services including:

• A technical helpline with 24/7 emergency cover
• Compliance service advising on statutory requirements
• Annual inspection of premises highlighting repairs and maintenance priorities
• Preparation and presentation of asset management plans

More details and briefing documents are available below and on the Framework pages on Hertsdirect.

Overview of Property Procurement

The document below provides a detailed overview of the programme to reprocure property contracts and identifies where this may have an impact on schools. 

It specifically details arrangements for the frameworks for Repair, Adaptation and Extension of buildings (RARE) and for Construction Related Project Management (CRPM). This includes information on the scope and terms, an overview of performance management and the process for calling work off from the frameworks. The HCC Approved list has been replaced by these frameworks.

Details of the revised Measured Term Contractors providing responsive maintenance is also included.

 (Please note, this document was revised October 2011).

• Acrobat pdf, 49kb/6 pages, 24/10/2011, school_briefing_document.pdf

Framework use Liability

Schools and governing bodies need to be aware that the award or calling off of works or services from a framework, following mini-competition, is the point at which a contractual relationship is made between the school governing body and the contractor.  Whilst the frameworks offer a relatively safe environment for procurement of works or services when compared to the open market, service provision is not risk free.  The liability for any risks associated with an award or call off sits solely with the contractor and the governing body. 

• Acrobat pdf, 27kb/2 pages, 28/03/2011, liability_letter_schools.pdf

How to Access the Framework

A web area on Hertsdirect has been set up to enable all users of the frameworks (which include external partners) to access the documents, guidance and templates they will need.  This area is username and password protected as the framework is not open to use by the general public.

To request a username and password, please:
Email: property.contract@hertscc.gov.uk

Then use this link:

• www.hertsdirect.org/propertyframework

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A list of FAQs has been compiled, which covers a range of questions received from schools in relation to use of the RARE and CRPM frameworks.  It also includes questions related to the maintenance agreements schools have with Mouchel.  (please note, this document was revised on October 2011).

• Acrobat pdf, 50kb/7 pages, 28/06/2011, faqs_oct11.pdf

If you have any questions about these changes and how they may affect you, please contact the
Building Management Team on:
Tel: 01992 588122