41.702
Formats for annual utility service review
Standardized formats for annual utility service reviews are available and may be tailored by contracting officers to ensure all contract requirements are addressed.
Overview
FAR 41.702 outlines the availability and use of standard formats for conducting annual reviews of utility services, specifically electric, gas, and water/sewage services. These formats are provided by the address listed in FAR 41.301(a) and are intended to assist agencies in systematically reviewing their utility service contracts. However, agencies are not required to use these formats and may adapt or modify them as needed to ensure all aspects of the utility service are adequately reviewed. This flexibility allows contracting officers to tailor the review process to the specific needs and circumstances of their contracts.
Key Rules
- Availability of Standard Formats
- Standard formats for reviewing electric, gas, and water/sewage utility services are available and may be used at the agency’s discretion.
- Modification Permitted
- Contracting officers have the authority to modify the standard review formats to ensure comprehensive coverage of the utility services under review.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Obtain the standard formats from the address in FAR 41.301(a), use them as appropriate, and modify them as necessary to fit the specific utility service contract.
- Contractors: Be prepared to provide information or documentation as requested during the annual review process.
- Agencies: Oversee the review process and ensure that all relevant aspects of utility service contracts are evaluated annually.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote consistency and thoroughness in the annual review of utility service contracts, while allowing flexibility for unique contract requirements.
- It impacts daily contracting by providing a structured approach to reviewing utility services, but does not mandate a one-size-fits-all format.
- Common pitfalls include failing to adapt the format to cover all relevant services or neglecting to conduct a comprehensive annual review.