4. APPRAISAL OF CONTRACTORS

4.1. Technical Appraisal

4.1.1. The Director is responsible for satisfying himself that any prospective contractor is technically competent to carry out the work to the standard required in the contract. The Procurement Manual contains guidance on carrying out technical appraisals.

4.2. Financial Appraisal

4.2.1. The Director of Central Services will carry out or update, as appropriate, a financial appraisal of the contractor before the award of any contract with an estimated annual value of £25,000 or more, where any payment is to be made in advance of completion of the contract.

4.2.2. A financial appraisal will also be carried out in any other case where the Director, in consultation with the Director of Central Services, considers it necessary.

4.2.3. In the interests of avoiding delay, Directors must request all necessary financial appraisals as early as practical within any tender process. In any event, at least two weeks should be allowed for this exercise to be completed.

4.3. Works Contracts

For all works contracts regardless of value, the Director will select a contractor who:-

4.3.1. can provide evidence of a proper business contact address and telephone number.

4.3.2. is registered for tax and holds a valid certificate (where appropriate).

4.3.3. is a member of a recognised trade association, where one exists.