Introduction
Purpose
This policy is to ensure compliance with State of North Carolina contracts for all furniture purchases.
Scope of Applicability
All University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ("UNC-Chapel Hill" or "University") faculty and staff.
Policy
Policy Statement
The University strives to maintain a healthy and safe environment for its employees. Furniture purchased should be ergonomically designed to fit the worker and thereby prevent and/or alleviate possible physical discomfort.
The University adheres to the State contracts for all types of furniture required for office and lounge areas. In general, contracts include all freight and installation in the quoted price. For modular systems furniture, contact Facilities Management in the UNC-Chapel Hill Facilities Services department.
Furniture exceeding $5,000 or more and not on State contract or purchased under purchasing flexibility requires the submission of a completed requisition to the UNC-Chapel Hill Department of Purchasing Services.
Exceptions
None.
Special Situations
None.
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a specific State term contract that addresses office, lounge and institutional furniture?
A: Yes, North Carolina State Term Contract 420A covers comprehensive product lines from multiple manufacturers, including new, unused, and in-current-production commercial and institutional quality furniture of all types, covering the state’s normal requirements in various categories.
Q: Are these mandatory contracts?
A: Yes, this is a mandatory Statewide Term Contract for state agencies, departments, institutions, universities and community colleges, unless exempted by North Carolina General Statute. Additionally, non-mandatory entities, including schools and local government, that are allowed by North Carolina General Statute may use this contract. Furniture products not within the scope of this or other Statewide Term Contracts may be purchased from other vendors in accordance with North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC) 01 NCAC 05B.0301 (Contracting Requirements) and 01 NCAC 05B.1105 (Special Items).
Q: My department wishes to purchase additional furniture to match existing furniture, however, this purchase is not covered on State term contract. Will this purchase be allowed?
A: It is allowable provided that the department can submit a brand specific justification indicating the need to match the existing furniture. The procurement must follow the competitive bid process if the budget estimate or quote exceeds the Small Purchase Benchmark, as defined in Finance Policy 1251: Small Order Policy.
Related Requirements
External Regulations and Consequences
University Policies, Standards, and Procedures
Contact Information
Policy Contacts
| Subject |
Contact |
Telephone |
Fax |
E-Mail |
| Office, Lounge, and Institutional Furniture |
Purchasing Services - Goods |
919-962-3774 |
919-962-0636 |
purchasing_team@unc.edu |
| Office, Lounge, and Institutional Furniture |
Facilities Planning |
919-966-1571 |
919-962-9103 |
|
History
Revised:
- May 10, 2022
- March 16, 2020
- February 28, 2018
- October 6, 2014
- October 1, 2014: Revised naming of requisition.
- July 20, 2010
- November 19, 2003