The Permitting Services Division is requesting to utilize Hillsborough County Contract ITB-S-0208-0-2013/EM, with Nova Engineering and Environmental, LLC of Tampa, FL, for building inspection and plan review services. Although the initial need is for inspection services, the objective is to have a contract that allows for outsourcing both inspection and plan review services. Utilizing this contract allows the City to respond efficiently to increasing demands while continuing to provide excellent customer service.

The Permitting Services Division has seen a dramatic increase in activity since 2011. In 2011, the Permitting Services Office issued 18,542 permits. In 2013, 28,469 permits were issued; an increase of 53.5%. In addition, the number of inspections performed, between 2011 and 2013, increased by 72%. The data we have for 2014 shows activity continuing to increase. At this time, we are averaging 8,580 inspections per month.

The industry standard recommends inspectors perform a maximum of fifteen inspections per day. Our inspectors are completing twenty-one or more inspections in an average day. The data we have to date does not reflect a slow-down in activity levels. It is in the City’s best interest to have a system in place that allows for the flexibility of enhancing staff on an as-needed basis.

The initial term for this contract is through December 31, 2014 with the option to renew for three (3) additional one (1) year terms. Permitting Services anticipates utilizing services which would consist of commercial and residential building inspectors for a period not less than eight months at the contracted hourly rate ($58.00/hr). The estimated expenditure is $335,060.

No City Certified M/WBE suppliers are registered for this service.