45.503
Support property administrator findings
When a prime contractor disagrees with a support Property Administrator's findings, the prime property administrator must immediately refer the matter to the contracting officer for resolution.
Overview
FAR 45.503 addresses the process to follow when a prime contractor disagrees with the findings of a support Property Administrator regarding government property. The regulation requires that, in such cases, the prime property administrator must promptly escalate the issue to the contracting officer for resolution. This ensures that disputes are handled efficiently and at the appropriate level of authority, maintaining proper oversight and accountability for government property administration.
Key Rules
- Disagreement with Support Property Administrator Findings
- If the prime contractor does not agree with the findings of the support Property Administrator, the issue must be referred without delay.
- Referral to Contracting Officer
- The prime property administrator is responsible for immediately notifying the contracting officer of the disagreement for further action.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must review and resolve disputes referred by the prime property administrator.
- Contractors: Should communicate disagreements with support Property Administrator findings to the prime property administrator.
- Agencies: Ensure that property administration disputes are escalated and resolved in accordance with FAR procedures.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that disagreements over government property administration are not left unresolved at lower levels, which could delay contract performance or property accountability.
- Contractors should be aware of the escalation process and maintain clear communication with property administrators.
- Failure to follow this process could result in unresolved disputes, compliance issues, or delays in contract execution.