42.301
General
CAOs must administer assigned contracts according to the FAR, contract terms, and servicing agency regulations unless an interagency agreement specifies otherwise.
Overview
FAR 42.301 outlines the general responsibilities of the Contract Administration Office (CAO) when a contract is assigned for administration under Subpart 42.2. The CAO is required to perform contract administration functions in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the specific terms of the contract, and, unless otherwise specified in an interagency agreement, the regulations of the servicing agency. This section establishes the foundational compliance framework for CAOs and clarifies the regulatory hierarchy that governs contract administration activities.
Key Rules
- CAO Responsibilities
- The CAO must follow the FAR, contract terms, and servicing agency regulations when administering assigned contracts.
- Interagency Agreements
- If an interagency agreement exists, it may specify different applicable regulations, which take precedence over default servicing agency rules.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure contracts are properly assigned for administration and that CAOs are aware of applicable regulations and agreements.
- Contractors: Comply with contract terms and be aware that the CAO will enforce both FAR and servicing agency regulations.
- Agencies: Establish clear interagency agreements when applicable and provide guidance to CAOs on regulatory requirements.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures consistency and clarity in contract administration by establishing which regulations apply.
- Contractors should be aware that both FAR and agency-specific rules may be enforced.
- Failure to recognize the correct regulatory framework can lead to compliance issues or disputes.