Specialty foundation work including underpinning, waterproofing, and exterior structural repairs. Find active federal and state other foundation, structure and exterior contractors contracts — AI-scored against your profile across SAM.gov and 200+ portals.
Annual federal spend under NAICS 238190 is estimated at $500M–$700M, driven by repair and renovation of existing structures. Competition is moderate, with many small businesses. Contracts are typically awarded as firm-fixed-price task orders under IDIQs or standalone projects. Demand spikes from the Army Corps for levee and dam foundation repairs, GSA for building envelope restoration, and VA for hospital waterproofing. Work is often subcontracted from larger prime contractors on mega-projects.
These agencies are the largest buyers of other foundation, structure and exterior contractors services and products in the federal government. Each awards contracts under NAICS 238190 regularly — build relationships with their small business offices first.
Focus on IDIQ holders: agencies issue task orders against existing contracts like GSA’s Multiple Award Schedules or agency-specific IDIQs. Set-asides are common: 8(a), HUBZone, and SDVOSB preferences apply. The highest-leverage move is to get on GSA Schedule 236220 (Construction) or a relevant agency IDIQ, then aggressively market your past performance on similar federal projects. Bid low on initial task orders to build a track record.
Work is mostly bought via LPTA (lowest price technically acceptable) under firm-fixed-price task orders. Common vehicles: GSA Schedule 236220, 8(a) STARS III (for 8(a) firms), and agency-specific IDIQs like USACE’s MATOC or VA’s SDVOSB set-aside. Best-value tradeoffs occur for complex structural repairs. Evaluation emphasizes price, past performance, and technical approach.
You need a state contractor’s license in the state where the project is located, plus any specialty licenses for waterproofing or underpinning. Federal contracts typically require proof of bonding capacity and OSHA safety certifications.
For task orders under $150K, bonds are often waived. For larger projects, expect performance and payment bonds at 100% of contract value. Many IDIQs require a $1M–$5M aggregate bonding line.
Yes, for 8(a) or HUBZone set-asides, you must be certified by the SBA. SDVOSB/VOSB set-asides require VetBiz verification. Without these, you can still compete as a small business under the $19M size standard.
Moderately competitive. Typical solicitations receive 5–15 offers. Price is often the deciding factor, but past performance on similar foundation or exterior work is heavily weighted. Small businesses have an advantage due to set-asides.
Award sizes vary widely, from $25K for small repair orders to $5M+ for major underpinning or waterproofing projects. The median task order is around $250K–$500K under IDIQ vehicles.