The Checklist

A vendor supplying emergency housing to be placed on VA land would need to meet a complex set of certifications to ensure the safety, quality, and compliance of the units. Here are some key areas and potential certifications:

1. General Construction and Safety:

  • International Building Code (IBC) Compliance: Meeting the IBC ensures the housing units are structurally sound and safe for occupancy.

  • State and Local Building Codes: Compliance with local regulations is essential, as they may have specific requirements beyond the IBC.

  • HUD or FEMA Standards (if applicable): If the units are designed to meet HUD or FEMA standards for temporary housing, certifications demonstrating this compliance would be needed.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance: Units should be accessible to individuals with disabilities, requiring ADA compliance certifications.

2. Manufacturing and Quality:

  • ISO 9001: This certification demonstrates a commitment to quality management systems, ensuring consistent production processes.1

  • Third-Party Inspections: Independent inspections from organizations like Intertek or SGS can verify quality and compliance with standards.2

3. Environmental and Sustainability:

  • LEED Certification: Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification may be preferred or required by the VA, demonstrating sustainable building practices.

  • Energy Star Certification: For energy-efficient units, Energy Star certification can be beneficial.

4. Specific VA Requirements:

  • VA Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) Compliance: Vendors must adhere to the VA's specific procurement regulations.

  • SAM Registration: All vendors doing business with the federal government must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).3

  • Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) or Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Certification (optional): While not always required, these certifications can give vendors a competitive advantage in bidding for VA contracts.

5. Other Potential Certifications:

  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards: Compliance with NFPA standards for fire safety may be necessary.

  • UL Listing: For electrical components and systems, UL listing demonstrates safety compliance.4

Important Considerations:

  • Specific requirements will vary: The VA may have specific certifications based on the type of emergency housing, its intended use, and the location on VA land.

  • Pre-solicitation notices and RFPs: Review these documents carefully for any specific certification requirements.

  • Contact the VA: Reach out to the contracting officer or relevant VA department for clarification on certifications.

By proactively addressing these potential certification needs, vendors can increase their chances of successfully supplying emergency housing units to the VA.