Fire doors are a vital component of any building’s passive fire protection system. For facilities managers, ensuring that fire doors are installed, maintained, and compliant with legal standards is not just a regulatory requirement; it’s a moral obligation to protect lives and assets.
When it comes time to tender for fire door services, whether for installation, inspection, or repairs, a clear and comprehensive tender document is essential.
In this post, we’ll explore what facilities managers should include in a fire door tender to ensure quality, compliance, and value for money.
Why Fire Door Tendering Matters
Before diving into the specifics of what to include, it’s important to understand the high stakes of fire door management:
- Safety: Fire doors are critical in compartmentalizing fire and smoke, allowing safe evacuation and reducing fire spread.
- Legal Compliance: In many jurisdictions, fire doors are governed by building codes, fire door regulations, and standards such as BS 476-22, BS EN 1634, or NFPA 80.
- Insurance Requirements: Non-compliance can affect insurance claims in the event of a fire.
- Asset Protection: Properly functioning fire doors protect the building structure and its contents.
Given these factors, the fire door tendering process must be meticulous.
Key Elements to Include in a Fire Door Tender
1. Scope of Work
Clearly define what the tender covers. This might include:
- Installation of new fire doors.
- Replacement of existing doors.
- Routine inspections and compliance checks.
- Repairs and maintenance.
- Certification and documentation management.
Be specific about the number of doors, locations within the facility, and whether work is for internal doors, escape routes, riser cupboards, or plant rooms.
2. Compliance Standards and Regulations
Specify the standards that all works must comply with, such as:
- BS EN 1634-1/2/3 (fire resistance and smoke control).
- BS 8214 (timber-based fire door assemblies).
- BM TRADA Q-Mark or CERTIFIRE certification requirements.
- The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (UK) or equivalent local legislation.
Also, outline responsibilities regarding building regulation compliance and how evidence of compliance should be submitted.
3. Product Specifications
Include detailed specifications for fire doors, such as:
- Fire resistance rating (e.g., FD30, FD60).
- Door core type (solid, mineral-based, etc.).
- Glazing requirements (fire-rated glass, size limitations).
- Ironmongery and hardware (fire-rated hinges, closers, handles).
- Intumescent strips and smoke seals.
Ensure compatibility between hardware and door leaf to maintain certification integrity.
4. Inspection and Maintenance Requirements
If your tender includes ongoing maintenance:
- State the frequency of inspections (e.g. every 6 months or quarterly).
- Include checklist criteria in line with industry standards (e.g. BS 9999).
- Require use of digital reporting tools with photographic evidence.
- Ask for documented records that align with your fire risk assessment.
5. Contractor Qualifications
Outline minimum requirements for prospective suppliers:
- Third-party certification (e.g. LPCB, BM TRADA, FIRAS).
- Trained and accredited personnel (e.g. FDIS Inspectors).
- Experience working in your specific building type (schools, hospitals, high-rises, etc.).
- References and case studies from similar contracts.
This ensures you’re engaging competent professionals capable of delivering compliant and durable solutions.
6. Health, Safety & Environmental Standards
Ask for evidence of:
- A robust Health & Safety Policy.
- Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS).
- Compliance with CDM 2015 (Construction Design and Management Regulations, if applicable).
- Waste disposal and sustainability practices (especially for timber door replacements).
7. Program and Timescales
Ask bidders to:
- Submit a detailed project plan.
- Outline phasing, especially if working in occupied buildings.
- Include contingency plans for delays.
Include your preferred start and end dates and whether work can take place outside of normal business hours.
8. Pricing Structure
Request clear breakdowns for:
- Unit costs per fire door (supply and install).
- Inspection and maintenance costs (per door or per visit).
- Emergency call-out rates.
- Labour vs. materials split.
- VAT and any applicable surcharges.
Ensure that all costs are transparent and comparable across bids.
9. Warranty and Aftercare
Include requirements for:
- Manufacturer and installation warranties (minimum durations).
- Post-installation snagging.
- Training for in-house staff (basic checks or use of reporting platforms).
- Availability of aftercare support or helplines.
10. Evaluation Criteria
Let suppliers know how you’ll assess their bids:
- Price (e.g. 40%).
- Technical compliance and quality (e.g. 30%).
- Experience and references (e.g. 20%).
- Social value or environmental policies (e.g. 10%).
Transparency in evaluation improves the quality of submissions and helps defend your decision.
Final Thoughts
Fire door tendering is not just a procurement process; it’s an essential part of your building’s life safety strategy. As a facilities manager, your role is to ensure that tenders are well-structured, compliant, and aligned with operational needs. By including the elements above, you can attract qualified suppliers, compare bids more effectively, and ultimately secure a fire door solution that protects people and property.
Why Choose Fire Door Care?
Protect your property and ensure safety with our expert fire door services! We specialize in professional fire door installation, inspection, and repair, ensuring full compliance with fire safety regulations. Our certified team delivers high-quality solutions to enhance fire resistance, prevent smoke spread, and safeguard lives. Whether you need a new fire door, routine inspections, or urgent repairs, we provide reliable and cost-effective services tailored to your needs.
- Safety First: We prioritise protecting lives and properties by ensuring every fire door meets the highest safety standards.
- Uncompromising Quality: Our expert team delivers precision craftsmanship and reliable solutions for long-lasting fire protection.
- Integrity You Can Trust: We are committed to honest, transparent, and dependable service at every step of the process.
- Customer Focused: Your safety is our mission. We tailor every inspection, repair, and installation to your unique needs.
If you would like to find out more about our fire door services, or would like help, advice or a quote please feel free to call us on 0203 488 5923 or send us a message here.
