Congratulations on your first county award, Jordan! In the first thirty days, you need to review the specific contract documents for the county's requirements on insurance, invoicing, and points of contact, as these details will vary by jurisdiction and contract. Unlike federal acquisitions which follow the FAR, county contracts are governed by local procurement codes and policies, so the county's procurement portal and your specific contract are your primary guides.
Your award letter should include or refer to the full contract document. This document will specify the required insurance certificates, such as general liability, workers' compensation, and potentially performance bonds. It will also outline the invoicing procedures, including any specific forms, submission deadlines, and payment terms. Look for a section on 'Contract Administration' or 'Points of Contact' to identify your day-to-day contact, often a Contract Administrator or a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).
A common mistake new awardees make is not thoroughly reading and understanding all contract clauses before commencing work. Pay close attention to clauses related to service levels, reporting requirements, and change order procedures. Another frequent issue is underestimating the administrative burden of compliance, which includes accurate record-keeping for invoicing and performance monitoring. Ask for a meeting with your assigned county contact early on to clarify any ambiguities.