Purchasing Guidelines

When making purchases as a representative of the University, you agree to adhere to the National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP) Code of Ethics.

The Purchase Order is a legal binding contract between Kettering University and the vendor, and is required regardless of whether a contract is signed with the vendor. Any changes to purchase orders must be in memo form with the original authorized signatures.

To request a Purchase Order, complete a Funds or Materials Request (KU-4) form, available within each department. Guidelines for completing the form are provided within the Business Office site.

All purchases and / or services over five thousand dollars ($5,000) require three bids, regardless of whether for one item or several smaller items to the same vendor with a total exceeding $5,000. The Purchasing Department has a Request for Proposal form, and will assist in securing the bids if requested. Purchasing reserves the right to secure additional bids/quotes on all orders or select an alternative vendor.

Exceptions to the bid process include procuring advertising services, using our preferred IT vendor (Micro Wise Inc), or purchasing specialty items (items that are unique and unable to be easily obtained from another vendor). If you are requesting a “specialty item,” please note this on the Funds or Materials Request form and no additional bids are required.

All vendors providing services must have the proper insurance coverage. If the services are being provided on Campus, individuals must carry Professional Liability Insurance and companies must carry Professional Liability & Workers' Compensation Insurance. Insurance certificates are required by Kettering from the vendor prior to any activity taking place.

See also Internet Purchases when purchasing items from the Internet.

Contact Kathleen Remender in the Purchasing Department, located at 5-600 CC, x9815 with any questions.