Bid guide
How to bid on replacing chillers for the VA in Houston, TX
What the VA is buying and why it matters
The Department of Veterans Affairs is conducting market research to find qualified businesses for a construction project at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. The project involves removing and replacing two operating room chillers. This is an opportunity for construction firms to show their capabilities for a project estimated between $2 million and $5 million.
This is a Request for Information (RFI), also known as a sources sought notice. It means the VA is gathering information about potential vendors before deciding how to proceed with a formal solicitation. Responding to an RFI can help position your company for future bidding opportunities with the agency.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This RFI was published on September 11, 2026. Your response must be submitted by September 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions will likely not be reviewed.
At the deadline, the VA will stop accepting responses. They will then review the information provided by interested businesses to inform their acquisition decisions. This RCI is not a request for a bid or proposal, and no contract will be awarded directly from this notice.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for construction firms with experience in projects of similar size, scope, and complexity, specifically involving the replacement of large-scale HVAC or chiller systems. The anticipated contract is a one-time, Firm-Fixed Price construction contract.
The relevant NAICS code is 238220, Plumbing, Heating and Air-Conditioning Contractors, with a size standard of $19 million. Firms should be able to demonstrate the ability to obtain bonding up to $5 million. The VA is interested in various business types, including Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), Veteran Owned Small Businesses (VOSB), HUBZone, Woman Owned Small Businesses (WOSB), and Large Businesses.
How to respond
To respond, you must email your information to Lisa Peace, Contracting Specialist, at [email protected]. The subject line of your email must be: "Sources Sought for REPLACE CHILLER 1 B104 | Project# 580-24-111 | Your Firm’s Name."
Your response is limited to three pages. Do not include advertising or promotional materials. Ensure your submission includes your company profile, business type, relevant experience (up to three projects from the past five years), and confirmation of your bonding capacity up to $5 million.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Since this is an RFI, focus on providing clear, concise information that directly addresses the VA's requests. Highlight your specific experience with chiller replacement or similar complex mechanical system installations, especially in healthcare or sensitive environments like operating rooms. Quantify your experience where possible, such as project values and dates.
Ensure your company profile is complete and accurate, including your Unique Entity ID (UEI) number and CAGE Code. Clearly state your small business designation and confirm your ability to meet the bonding requirement. Adhering strictly to the three-page limit demonstrates your ability to follow instructions and present information efficiently.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Veterans Affairs, Department of; the original posting controls.