Purpose and Use of a
Notice of Intent

What is a Notice of Intent?

A Notice of Intent (NOI) is the method by which a contracting ministry informs vendors that negotiations with a specified contractor will take place without a competitive process. By listing the prospective contractor's qualifications and the rationale for selecting him/her, and allowing others to express their relevant qualifications, it ensures that potential suppliers have not been inadvertently missed.

When is a Notice of Intent used?

In accordance with the Core Policy and Procedures Manual, a NOI is posted on BC Bid when a contract valued at over $10,000 for goods and $50,000 for services and construction is to be directly awarded on the basis that there is only one vendor able to provide the good, service, or construction.

What is the policy regarding Notices of Intent?

Chapter 6 of the Core Policy and Procedures Manual (sections 6.3.2b (5) and 6.3.2c (7)) governs the NOI process.

Will a NOI be issued for all direct awards?

No, a NOI is not required if it is determined that the direct award meets one or more of the allowable exceptions specified in section 6.3.3a (1) of the Core Policy and Procedures Manual.

What is the number of days that a Notice of Intent will be posted?

There is no policy stating the number of days that a NOI must be posted. However, ministries are encouraged to post for a minimum of eight days.

Who should I file a challenge with?

The name and address of the contact person are found on the front page of the NOI.

What should be included in my challenge?

Include all relevant reasons for objecting, such as your ability to meet and/or exceed the requirements listed in the NOI, as demonstrated through related experience, as requested in the NOI.

Should my correspondence be written or verbal?

Your initial challenge should be written; the format of all further correspondence is left to the discretion of the parties involved.

Is there a deadline by which I must file a challenge?

Yes, the deadline can be found on the first page of the NOI, under "Close Date and Time."

When will I receive a response to my challenge?

There is no rule for response times. However, ministry staff will attempt to provide you with a prompt response.

What criteria will be used to assess my challenge?

The criteria to be used can be found in the NOI. Depending on the nature of the assignment, your qualifications may be judged against those of the prospective contractor.

Will I be permitted to view the proposed contractor's price before filing a challenge?

No, you will not be permitted to view the exact price until the contract has been signed. However, the NOI may provide a general figure, such as "less than $100,000."

Will the filing of a challenge commence a competitive process?

No, as the Core Policy and Procedures Manual indicates (sections 6.3.2b (5) and 6.3.2c (7)), only the receipt of a substantiated challenge will result in the commencement of a competitive process.

Prior to filing a challenge, will I be provided with the same information as the prospective contractor?

No, such information will only be provided if and when a competitive process is initiated.

Is there any recourse available if I am dissatisfied with the handling of my challenge?

Yes, each ministry involved in procurement activities has in place a vendor complaint review process (VCRP). Please consult the particular ministry's website for an overview of its process.