52.214-18 Preparation of Bids-Construction
Source: FAR 52.214-18 on acquisition.gov
Strict adherence to bid preparation instructions—including form usage, signatures, and item pricing—is essential to avoid bid disqualification in construction procurements.
Overview
FAR 52.214-18, Preparation of Bids-Construction, outlines the specific requirements for submitting bids on construction contracts. It ensures that all bids are prepared consistently and in accordance with government standards, reducing the risk of errors or disqualification. The provision details the acceptable forms for bid submission, signature requirements, how to handle changes or erasures, and the proper way to address items not being bid on. It also clarifies when alternate bids may be considered.
Key Rules
- Bid Submission Format
- Bids must be submitted on government-furnished forms or exact copies, and must be manually signed. Any changes or erasures must be initialed by the signer.
- Bid Pricing Requirements
- Bidders may be required to submit prices as lump sum, alternate prices, units of construction, or combinations thereof, as specified in the bid form.
- Completeness of Bids
- If the solicitation requires bids on all items, failure to do so results in disqualification. If not required, "no bid" must be entered for items not priced.
- Alternate Bids
- Alternate bids are only considered if the solicitation specifically authorizes them.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure bid forms and instructions are clear and consistent with this provision.
- Contractors: Must follow all bid preparation instructions, use correct forms, sign and initial as required, and address all items as specified.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance and enforce bid disqualification rules as needed.
Practical Implications
- This provision standardizes bid preparation, reducing ambiguity and potential disputes.
- Contractors risk disqualification for incomplete, unsigned, or improperly altered bids.
- Common pitfalls include failing to initial changes, omitting required items, or submitting unauthorized alternate bids.
As prescribed in 14.201-6(l), insert the following provision:
Preparation of Bids-Construction (Apr 1984)
(a) Bids must be-
(1) Submitted on the forms furnished by the Government or on copies of those forms, and
(2) Manually signed. The person signing a bid must initial each erasure or change appearing on any bid form.
(b) The bid form may require bidders to submit bid prices for one or more items on various bases, including-
(1) Lump sum bidding;
(2) Alternate prices;
(3) Units of construction; or
(4) Any combination of paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(3) of this provision.
(c) If the solicitation requires bidding on all items, failure to do so will disqualify the bid. If bidding on all items is not required, bidders should insert the words "no bid" in the space provided for any item on which no price is submitted.
(d) Alternate bids will not be considered unless this solicitation authorizes their submission.
(End of provision)