Introduction
Purpose
The University enacts this policy to promote departmental expediency in resolving vendor-related issues. Maintaining positive, productive relationships with reliable vendors is advantageous to the University.
Scope of Applicability
Applies to all UNC-Chapel Hill personnel engaging vendors.
Policy
Policy Statement
Departments are to notify any vendor and the responsible Commodity Manager in Purchasing Services immediately if a purchased product does not meet specified standards and warranty provisions, or if the vendor is not fulfilling the terms and conditions of the purchase order. In working toward a resolution with the vendor, departments must maintain written documentation of these efforts and the vendor's responses to them.
Special Situations
None.
Exceptions
None.
Additional Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does Purchasing Services contract with vendors that provide our department with substandard performance or poor quality work?
A: In order for Purchasing Services to prohibit a vendor from participating in the bid process as part of fair and open competition, Purchasing Services must be in possession of written documentation of prior substandard performance or poor quality work. Departments are encouraged to submit written documentation of any vendor issues to the appropriate Commodity Manager responsible for the purchase order. Doing so provides protection for the University from disreputable vendors.
Q: How difficult is it to suspend purchasing from a vendor because of poor quality work?
A: It is not difficult. Departments need to document the problem, the conversations with the vendor about improving their performance, and the mutually established deadlines for improvement. Provide this documentation along with the Complaint to Vendor form, and the State Purchasing Officer will take appropriate action to remedy the problem. The vendor could possibly be debarred from doing business with the State of North Carolina.
Related Requirements
External Regulations and Consequences
The State of North Carolina Division of Purchase & Contract maintains a listing of vendors who provide sub-standard product or performance per reference NC General Statutes 143-49, 143-52, 143-53 and 143-60.
University Policies, Standards, and Procedures
Contact Information
Policy Contact
| Subject |
Contact |
Telephone |
Fax |
E-Mail |
| Sub-standard Produce or Performance of Work |
Purchasing Services - Goods |
919-962-3774 |
919-962-0636 |
purchasing_team@unc.edu |
History
Revised:
- July 14, 2010
- November 11, 2003