VA awards $20.6K for stair lifts, highlighting need for specialized mobility solutions

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $20,600 ($20.6K)

Contractor: Center Span LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2026-04-06

End Date: 2026-06-08

Contract Duration: 63 days

Daily Burn Rate: $327/day

Competition Type: COMPETED UNDER SAP

Number of Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: CUSTOM STAIR LIFT

Place of Performance

Location: DEER PARK, SUFFOLK County, NEW YORK, 11729

State: New York Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $20,600 to CENTER SPAN LLC for work described as: CUSTOM STAIR LIFT Key points: 1. Contract value is modest, suggesting a focus on specific needs rather than broad deployment. 2. Competition under SAP indicates a streamlined process for smaller value procurements. 3. Limited contract duration may reflect evolving needs or pilot program status. 4. The award to Center Span LLC requires scrutiny of their performance history in similar contracts. 5. Geographic concentration in New York warrants understanding of regional demand drivers. 6. Fixed-price contract type shifts performance risk to the contractor.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value of $20,600 for stair lifts appears reasonable for a specialized medical device. Benchmarking against similar VA or other federal contracts for custom stair lifts would provide a clearer picture of value for money. The fixed-price nature of the award suggests the government has a defined scope and budget, but the actual value will depend on the quality and durability of the installed units. Without more detailed specifications or comparison data, it's difficult to definitively assess if this represents excellent value.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: limited

The contract was competed under the Simplified Acquisition Procedures (SAP), which are typically used for procurements valued below a certain threshold (e.g., $250,000). While this indicates some level of competition, it is not a full and open competition. The number of bidders is not specified, but SAP often involves fewer bidders than larger, more formal solicitations. This can sometimes lead to less aggressive pricing compared to a broader competition.

Taxpayer Impact: For taxpayers, competition under SAP generally offers a balance between efficiency and price. While not as robust as full and open competition, it aims to secure fair market prices for smaller acquisitions, preventing excessive spending on these specific items.

Public Impact

Veterans in the New York area requiring mobility assistance will directly benefit from the installation of these stair lifts. The service delivered is the provision and installation of custom stair lifts, enhancing accessibility and safety within beneficiaries' homes. The geographic impact is concentrated in New York (NY), serving veterans residing in that state. Workforce implications are minimal, likely involving a small installation crew from the contractor.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Limited competition under SAP may not yield the lowest possible price.
Contract duration is short, raising questions about long-term support or potential need for follow-on contracts.
Lack of detailed performance metrics makes it hard to assess contractor effectiveness post-award.

Positive Signals

The award addresses a specific, critical need for mobility-impaired veterans.
Fixed-price contract type provides cost certainty for the VA.
The procurement process, though limited, was followed according to SAP guidelines.

Sector Analysis

The market for medical appliances and surgical supplies, including assistive devices like stair lifts, is a specialized segment within the broader healthcare industry. This contract falls under NAICS code 339113 (Surgical Appliance and Supply Manufacturing). Spending in this sector is driven by healthcare needs, aging populations, and government programs like VA healthcare. Comparable spending benchmarks would involve analyzing other VA or DoD contracts for similar assistive devices, as well as private sector healthcare equipment procurement.

Small Business Impact

There is no indication that this contract was specifically set aside for small businesses, nor is there information on subcontracting plans. Given the small dollar value and specialized nature of the product, it's possible that small businesses could be involved either as the prime contractor or as suppliers. Further analysis would be needed to determine the extent of small business participation and its impact on the broader small business ecosystem in this niche market.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this purchase order would typically fall under the Department of Veterans Affairs' procurement and contracting offices. Accountability measures are inherent in the fixed-price contract terms, requiring the contractor to deliver the specified goods and services. Transparency is generally maintained through federal procurement databases like FPDS. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply if any fraud, waste, or abuse were suspected.

Related Government Programs

VA Prosthetics and Sensory Aids Service
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Contracts
Home Health and Accessibility Modifications

Risk Flags

Potential for higher cost due to limited competition.
Contract duration is short, may require follow-on actions.
Performance history of contractor Center Span LLC needs verification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $20,600 to CENTER SPAN LLC. CUSTOM STAIR LIFT

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is CENTER SPAN LLC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Veterans Affairs (Department of Veterans Affairs).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $20,600.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-06. End: 2026-06-08.

What is the track record of Center Span LLC in providing similar mobility solutions to government agencies?

A review of federal procurement data would be necessary to ascertain Center Span LLC's track record. Specifically, searching for past awards to this contractor for stair lifts, mobility equipment, or related services would reveal their performance history. Key indicators to examine include on-time delivery, adherence to specifications, customer satisfaction ratings (if available), and any past performance issues or disputes. Without this specific data, it's difficult to assess their reliability and expertise in fulfilling this VA contract effectively. The current award is a Purchase Order, suggesting a relatively straightforward transaction, but understanding their broader experience is crucial for risk assessment.

How does the awarded price compare to market rates for custom stair lifts?

To compare the awarded price of $20,600 to market rates for custom stair lifts, one would need to research pricing from multiple commercial providers. Factors influencing price include the type of stair lift (straight, curved), features (power-lift, swivel seat), installation complexity, and brand. A preliminary search suggests that custom stair lifts can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on customization and installation. The VA's award at $20,600 might be at the higher end, potentially reflecting specific customization needs, installation challenges, or the inclusion of long-term maintenance not typical in consumer purchases. A more precise benchmark would require detailed specifications of the VA's required lift.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, and how are they mitigated?

The primary risks associated with this contract include potential contractor underperformance (e.g., delays, faulty installation), the risk of the chosen stair lift not meeting the veteran's specific needs, and the possibility of the price being higher than necessary due to limited competition. Mitigation strategies include the fixed-price contract type, which incentivizes the contractor to complete the work within budget. The VA's oversight and acceptance process serves as a check on quality and adherence to specifications. The limited competition under SAP is a known factor, and the VA relies on its procurement regulations to ensure fair pricing within that framework. Post-installation inspection and user feedback are critical for ensuring the solution meets the veteran's needs.

What is the expected effectiveness of this contract in improving veteran quality of life?

The effectiveness of this contract in improving a veteran's quality of life is expected to be high, provided the stair lift is installed correctly and functions as intended. For veterans with mobility impairments, a stair lift can significantly enhance independence, safety, and comfort within their own homes, reducing the risk of falls and the need for constant assistance. This can lead to improved mental well-being and a greater ability to participate in daily activities. The short duration (approx. 2 months) suggests this is for immediate need fulfillment rather than a long-term program, but its impact on the individual veteran's daily living can be substantial during that period and potentially beyond if the unit is durable.

How does this spending compare to historical VA spending on mobility-related assistive devices?

This $20,600 award is a relatively small amount in the context of overall VA spending on assistive devices. The VA's Prosthetics and Sensory Aids Service, along with other programs, procures a wide range of equipment, including wheelchairs, walkers, home modifications, and specialized medical equipment, often in much larger quantities and at higher total dollar values. To compare historically, one would need to analyze aggregate spending data for similar items (e.g., stair lifts, ramps, home accessibility modifications) over several fiscal years. This specific contract represents a single, localized need fulfillment rather than a large-scale program initiative.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing › Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: MEDICAL/DENTAL/VETERINARY EQPT/SUPP

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: COMPETED UNDER SAP

Solicitation Procedures: SIMPLIFIED ACQUISITION

Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 100 E JEFRYN BLVD STE L, DEER PARK, NY, 11729

Business Categories: Category Business, Limited Liability Corporation, Partnership or Limited Liability Partnership, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $20,600

Exercised Options: $20,600

Current Obligation: $20,600

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Timeline