Decision details

For the Assistant Director, Schools and Learning to
approve a variation of contract to Getfix Ltd by £88,509.70 varying their contract sum from £115,983.33 to £204,493.03 (including a client contingency of £20,000.00) as allowed under the council’s contract standing orders 10.02.1a.

The schools heating pipework system failed in numerous locations causing several leaks and internal damage to teaching and learning spaces. Initial investigations suggested an issue with the crimping method used to the secure the joints (installed circa 2 years ago), this has since been confirmed by the manufacturer. A detailed survey has taken place and report awaited which is expected to have assessed the full condition of the pipework and rectification plan as a construction latent defect.

The initial award to Getfix Ltd was approved the 13th January 2025. This included installation of a temporary heating system for a hire period of 6 weeks. To support the ongoing survey and rectification works the hire period needs to be extended to the end of the heating season. Although to be confirmed, to minimise disruption to the school, its expected rectification works will likely take place during the summer holidays 2025.

This variation also includes a budget allowance for additional diesel, variation to cabling to support re-siting of the generator to minimise noise and removal of the temporary heating system at end of use.

A mini competition via the HPCS was discounted originally as it was felt negotiating with a contractor would be most efficient in terms of time due to this original solution being time critical in terms of the operational impact on the school to eliminate the risk of further closure days. The Dynamic Purchasing System did not permit a direct award.

Do nothing – this is not an option as the system was initially hired for 6 weeks pending survey and rectification works. Not varying this contract would leave the school without any heating.