How to bid on water heater replacement for Federal Detention Center SeaTac

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Federal Detention Center (FDC) SeaTac, part of the Federal Prison System / Bureau of Prisons, needs a contractor to replace four water heaters at its facility in SeaTac, Washington. This project involves removing and disposing of the existing units and installing four new ones.

This is a total small-business set-aside opportunity, meaning only small businesses can bid. It is a firm-fixed-price contract, which provides certainty for both the contractor and the government regarding costs. The work has a 90-day performance period.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on July 21, 2026. If you wish to request an on-site tour of the facility to better understand the scope, you must send your request by email no later than 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. You will also need to complete an NCIC Background check form, which should be included with your email request.

The final deadline for submitting your quote is 2:00 p.m. Pacific on Monday, August 10, 2026. Quotes must be submitted by email only in PDF format. The government will evaluate offers based on price, past performance, and technical factors (specifically, the product brand or manufacturer offered).

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses specializing in mechanical installations, particularly those with experience in plumbing and HVAC systems. The NAICS code for this requirement is 238220, which covers plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors, with a size standard of $19 million.

Firms with a track record of similar equipment removal and installation projects, especially in secure or institutional environments, will find this bid a good fit. Experience with government contracts and understanding of federal regulations will also be beneficial.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation details, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required.

Once you have reviewed the solicitation, including Attachment A and the Statement of Work (Attachment B), prepare your quote. Remember to request an on-site tour by the August 4 deadline if you need one. Submit your complete PDF quote by email to the address provided in the solicitation by the August 10 deadline.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully read the Statement of Work (SOW) to ensure your proposal addresses all requirements for the removal, disposal, and installation of the water heaters. Pay close attention to any specified parts, materials, and industry standards.

When addressing the evaluation factors, clearly present your proposed price, ensuring it is fair and reasonable. For past performance, highlight similar projects you have completed, providing details that demonstrate your firm's capability and reliability. For the technical factor, explicitly identify the brand or manufacturer of the water heaters you propose to install.

If you request an on-site tour, use it to gather detailed information that can help you formulate a more accurate and competitive bid. Also, ensure your company is registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and that your registration is active and up-to-date, as this is a standard requirement for federal contracts.