How to bid on Comprehensive Plumbing Services for Chicago Department of Aviation

What the City of Chicago is buying

The City of Chicago is looking for vendors to provide comprehensive plumbing services for its Department of Aviation. This is a construction category opportunity. Businesses that can offer a full range of plumbing services should consider this bid.

A key aspect of this solicitation is the participation goals. The City has set goals of 25% for Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), 5% for Women Business Enterprises (WBE), and 3% for Veteran Business Enterprises (VBE). Vendors should be prepared to address these requirements in their proposals.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The deadline for submitting bids for this opportunity is September 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM ET. It is crucial to submit your response exactly as directed by the solicitation before this time. Late submissions are generally not accepted.

The deadline is a firm cutoff. All required documents and information must be submitted by this time. Plan to complete your submission well in advance to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

Who this opportunity suits

This Invitation for Bids (IFB) is suitable for plumbing companies, especially those with experience in providing comprehensive services to large organizations or government entities. Firms with existing certifications as MBE, WBE, or VBE, or those able to partner with such firms, will find this opportunity particularly relevant due to the participation goals.

The work is located in Chicago, IL, so vendors should be prepared to operate in that area. This is a good opportunity for established plumbing contractors looking to secure work with the City of Chicago.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full details and bid documents, you need to go to the City of Chicago Vendor & Contract Search. The solicitation is listed under Invitation for Bids 1321362.

Once on the solicitation's detail page, review the specifications, contact information, and any addenda. For eProcurement bids, documents will be linked through the city's iSupplier portal. Ensure you follow all submission instructions precisely as outlined in the solicitation before the response due date.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully read the entire solicitation document. Pay close attention to all requirements, including technical specifications, administrative instructions, and the participation goals for MBE, WBE, and VBE. Missing any detail can lead to disqualification.

If you are not a certified MBE, WBE, or VBE firm, begin identifying potential partners early. Document your outreach and agreements with these subcontractors to demonstrate how you will meet the participation goals. Ensure your partners are also registered with the City of Chicago if required.

Prepare your bid well in advance of the deadline. This allows time to address any questions, gather necessary documentation, and resolve any technical issues with the submission portal. Proofread all documents to ensure accuracy and completeness before final submission.