New Deadline - Public Tender: Independent Technical Assessment of Construction Projects

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten (Wednesday, October 22, 2025) — Terms of Reference (TOR) for Independent Technical Assessment of Construction Project

Introduction

This Terms of Reference (TOR) outlines the scope of work, objectives, and deliverables for an independent technical assessment of construction projects under the direct or indirect financial responsibility of Social & Health Insurances (SZV). This assessment is mandated to ensure transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of public funds in critical infrastructure development.

Background

In light of the critical financial situation at SZV and concerns raised by the Minister of VSA and the Committee for Financial Supervision (CFT), an independent assessment of construction projects is deemed necessary. This initiative aims to provide an objective evaluation of project status, technical compliance, financial viability, and overall implementation efficiency.

Objectives of the Assessment

The primary objectives of this independent technical assessment are to:

- Evaluate Technical Compliance: Assess whether construction projects adhere to approved designs, specifications, engineering standards, and relevant building codes.
- Review Project Management and Implementation: Examine the effectiveness of project planning, execution, monitoring, and control mechanisms, including adherence to timelines and budget.
- Assess Financial Viability and Expenditure: Verify the prudent use of funds, assess cost-effectiveness, and identify any potential financial irregularities or overruns.
- Identify Risks and Challenges: Pinpoint existing and potential technical, financial, and operational risks that could impact project successful completion and propose mitigation strategies.
- Provide Recommendations: Offer actionable recommendations for improving project quality, efficiency, cost control, and overall governance.

Scope of Work

The independent technical assessment shall cover all ongoing and planned construction projects that fall under SZV’s direct or indirect financial responsibility. This includes, but is not limited to, the following projects:

- The construction of the new General Hospital
- The Mental Health Care Facility
- SZV’s proposed new office building
- The potential redevelopment or construction of White and Yellow Cross facilities for elderly care

The assessment can encompass a comprehensive review of:

- Project Documentation: Including contracts, design documents, technical specifications, environmental impact assessments, permits, progress reports, and financial records.
- On-site Inspections: Physical verification of construction progress, quality of work, materials used, and adherence to safety standards.
- Stakeholder Consultations: Interviews with project managers, contractors, consultants, regulatory bodies, and other relevant parties.
- Financial Analysis: Review of budget allocations, expenditure tracking, payment schedules, and cost-benefit analysis.
- Schedule Analysis: Evaluation of project timelines, delays, and their causes.


Methodology

The selected firm or individual shall propose a detailed methodology for conducting the assessment, which can include, but not be limited to:

- Desk Review: Comprehensive review of all available project documentation.
- Site Visits and Inspections: Regular or ad-hoc visits to project sites to observe progress and quality.
- Interviews and Consultations: Engaging with key project personnel and stakeholders.
- Data Analysis: Quantitative and qualitative analysis of project data, including financial and technical reports.
- Risk Assessment: Identification and evaluation of project-specific risks.

 
Deliverables

The selected firm or individual will be required to submit the following deliverables:

- Inception Report: Detailing the proposed methodology, work plan, and timeline within one week of contract signing.
- Interim Progress Reports: As agreed upon, providing updates on findings and preliminary recommendations.
- Draft Final Report: Presenting comprehensive findings, analysis, conclusions, and recommendations for review and feedback.
- Final Report: Incorporating feedback, providing a detailed and actionable assessment of all projects, including an executive summary.
- Presentation to Stakeholders: A presentation of the key findings and recommendations to SZV management, and the Minister of VSA.

Reporting Requirements

The Final Report shall be comprehensive, well-structured, and provide clear, evidence-based findings. It should include:

- An Executive Summary
- Detailed findings for each project assessed
- Analysis of technical, financial, and managerial aspects
- Identification of risks and mitigation strategies
- Specific, actionable recommendations
- Appendices with supporting documentation and data

Qualifications of the Assessor

The independent firm or individual must possess:

- Extensive experience in technical assessment of large-scale construction projects.
- Proven expertise in civil engineering, project management, and financial analysis.
- Independence and impartiality, with no conflict of interest with SZV or any of the projects/contractors involved.
- Strong analytical and report writing skills.

Timeline

A letter of interest and CV should be submitted no later than October 29, 2025 November 5, 2025 to cdhodge@szv.sx with cc to meuson@szv.sx. The detailed timeline for the assessment and submission of deliverables will be agreed upon during contract negotiations.

Confidentiality

All information accessed during the assessment must be treated with strict confidentiality. The firm or individual will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).