46.502
Responsibility for acceptance
Acceptance of contract deliverables is binding on the Government when performed by the designated authority, so contractors must confirm who holds acceptance responsibility.
Overview
FAR 46.502 establishes that the contracting officer is primarily responsible for the acceptance of supplies or services under a government contract. However, this responsibility can be delegated to a cognizant contract administration office or another agency, as referenced in FAR 42.202(g). Once acceptance is made by the designated office or agency, it is legally binding on the Government, meaning the Government is obligated to honor the acceptance decision. This section clarifies the chain of authority and ensures that acceptance actions are recognized as official and enforceable.
Key Rules
- Contracting Officer Responsibility
- The contracting officer is the default authority for accepting supplies or services.
- Delegation of Acceptance
- Acceptance authority can be assigned to a contract administration office or another agency, and their acceptance is binding on the Government.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure proper acceptance of supplies or services, or formally delegate this responsibility.
- Contractors: Must deliver supplies or services to the designated accepting authority and recognize that acceptance by that authority is final and binding.
- Agencies: Must follow proper procedures when delegated acceptance authority and ensure their acceptance actions are documented and binding.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures clarity in who has the authority to accept contract deliverables, reducing disputes over acceptance.
- Contractors should always confirm who the accepting authority is for their contract.
- Failure to follow proper acceptance procedures can lead to disputes or non-payment.