Timber-Framed Townhouse Experimental Project

2026-11-03

The University of Canterbury (UC) has awarded a contract to DP Build Limited for the Timber-Framed Townhouse Experimental Project (RFQ 25-533), which supports the externally funded research programme "Assessing and Reducing the Seismic Vulnerability of New Zealand Three-Storey Timber-Framed Housing".The project requires the construction, modification, relining, and repair of full-scale three-storey timber-framed townhouse test specimens within the University of Canterbury Structural Engineering Laboratory (SEL). The works support a staged experimental testing programme designed to improve understanding of the seismic performance of medium-density timber-framed housing and contribute to future engineering design guidance and standards development.The procurement was initially estimated to be below NZD $100,000 and was therefore conducted through a closed Request for Quote (RFQ) process involving selected local contractors with demonstrated residential construction capability and the ability to operate within an active laboratory environment. Three suppliers were invited to participate and two conforming quotations were received. Following evaluation, DP Build Limited was identified as the supplier offering the best overall value for money and capability to deliver the required works.Following receipt of quotations, the contract value exceeded the original estimate. Approval was subsequently obtained to continue with the completed closed RFQ process rather than recommence procurement through an open tender process.Restarting the procurement would have introduced significant delays to the research programme and jeopardised the University's ability to meet contractual obligations and milestone commitments under external funding agreements. The approved approach ensured continuity of the research programme, maintained value for money through a competitive procurement process, and supported timely delivery of nationally significant seismic resilience research.

New Zealand

2026-08-15