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Sam Whiting, our Technical Support Manager, has been heavily involved in our Architect Design Services (ADS1.1) framework liaising with our appointed companies and our clients interested in this framework. He has gathered some frequently asked questions to help those interested in using our Architect Design Services (ADS1.1) framework understand the first steps.

What regions in the UK does this framework cover?

The ADS framework can be accessed by all London public sector clients or public sector clients in which the property/land requiring architect services is within the London area.

Am I able to use my own terms and conditions for call-off?

Yes, the ADS framework allows our clients to use their own terms and conditions to be as flexible as possible to their requirements.

How were the architects on the framework evaluated?

At the first Selection Questionnaire (SQ) stage, architects were asked to answer mandatory selection questions surrounding details such as insolvency, professional misconduct, and validation that applicants paid London Living Wage. They were also required to have at least £2 million Public Liability, Employees Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance cover, pass all relevant credit checks, and ensure that they were ARB registered and committed to working to BIM level 2.

The second ITT stage of the evaluation process required architects to respond to technical and quality questions, which made up 70% of the weighting, and also complete a pricing schedule, which made up the remaining 30%. A breakdown of what quality questions were asked can be found in the ADS procurement guide or by asking a member of the London and Southeast team.

What call-off options are there through the framework?

Through the ADS framework, clients can either have a mini competition between all architects on the relevant Lot and value band or a direct award option. Please get in touch with the London and Southeast team at LHC for any further information and to understand how a direct award may be made compliantly.

What timeframe can I expect to make a call-off through the framework?

For a mini competition, we ask our architects to express their interest in no more than 5 working days. From there, we recommend giving 2-3 weeks for the release of the ITT documents by the client. Then, depending on the scope of the brief and requirements, we usually say to give the architects 4-8 weeks to return the ITT and recommend giving yourself 1-3 weeks for evaluation and subsequent award.

For a direct award, we ask the relevant architect to respond with an expression of interest within 5 working days. Then, after a discussion between the client and architect, an award can be made as soon as possible.

If you would like to know more about our Architect Design Services (ADS1.1) framework, contact Paige Kent, our Client Support Manager, at paige.kent@lhc.gov.uk or Sam Whiting, our Technical Support Manager at sam.whiting@lhc