52.215-5
Facsimile Proposals
FAR 52.215-5 allows proposals to be submitted by fax, but contractors must ensure legibility and be prepared to provide original signed copies if requested.
Overview
FAR 52.215-5 outlines the requirements and procedures for submitting proposals, revisions, modifications, or withdrawals via facsimile (fax) in response to government solicitations. This provision allows offerors to use fax machines to transmit their proposals, treating them with the same legal standing as paper submissions. It also establishes procedures for handling unreadable faxed proposals, including notification and resubmission protocols, and clarifies that the government may make an award based solely on a faxed proposal, but may require an original signed copy if needed.
Key Rules
- Definition of Facsimile Proposal
- A facsimile proposal includes any proposal, revision, modification, or withdrawal sent and received by fax.
- Submission Authorization
- Offerors are permitted to submit proposals by fax, and these are treated the same as paper proposals.
- Unreadable Proposals
- If a faxed proposal is unreadable, the contracting officer must notify the offeror and allow resubmission, with the resubmission considered timely if requirements are met.
- Award Based on Faxed Proposal
- The government can make an award based solely on a faxed proposal but may require the original signed document if requested.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must provide a fax number, handle unreadable proposals per the provision, and may request original signed proposals.
- Contractors: Must ensure faxed proposals are legible, respond promptly to resubmission requests, and provide original signed copies if required.
- Agencies: Must ensure procedures for receiving and processing faxed proposals are in place and followed.
Practical Implications
- This provision enables faster proposal submissions and modifications, especially close to deadlines. Contractors must ensure faxed documents are clear and complete, as unreadable submissions can jeopardize timeliness. Failure to provide an original signed proposal when requested can risk award eligibility.