Contract format
The uniform contract format standardizes most negotiated contracts, but specific exceptions apply, so always verify if your contract type requires or is exempt from the UCF.
Overview
FAR 15.204 establishes the requirement for using a uniform contract format (UCF) in most negotiated contracts to standardize the preparation, organization, and reference of solicitations and contracts. The UCF is designed to streamline the contracting process for offerors, contractors, and contract administrators by providing a consistent structure. However, the regulation also specifies several exceptions where the UCF is not required, including construction and architect-engineer contracts, subsistence contracts, contracts requiring special formats as prescribed elsewhere in the FAR, letter requests for proposals, and contracts exempted by the agency head or designee. The section also references the detailed breakdown of the UCF into four main parts, which are further described in subsequent sections (15.204-1 through 15.204-5).