52.236-28
Preparation of Proposals-Construction
Properly formatted, signed, and complete proposals are mandatory for construction solicitations, and failure to comply with these requirements can result in rejection without further consideration.
Overview
FAR 52.236-28, Preparation of Proposals-Construction, outlines the specific requirements for submitting proposals in response to government construction solicitations. It ensures that proposals are properly formatted, signed, and complete, and clarifies how offerors should address pricing and alternate proposals. The provision is designed to standardize proposal submissions, reduce errors, and facilitate fair evaluation.
Key Rules
- Submission Format and Signature
- Proposals must be submitted on government-furnished forms (or copies) and must be manually signed. Any changes or erasures on the forms must be initialed by the signer.
- Pricing Requirements
- Offerors may be required to submit prices as lump sum, alternate prices, units of construction, or combinations thereof, as specified in the proposal form.
- Completeness of Proposal
- If the solicitation requires pricing for all items, failure to provide this may result in rejection. If not required, "no proposal" should be entered for items without a price.
- Alternate Proposals
- Alternate proposals are only considered if explicitly authorized in the solicitation.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure solicitations include this provision and verify proposal compliance.
- Contractors: Must follow all submission, signature, and pricing instructions precisely.
- Agencies: Oversee adherence to proposal requirements and ensure fair evaluation.
Practical Implications
- This provision exists to ensure uniformity and clarity in construction proposal submissions, reducing administrative errors and disputes.
- Contractors must pay close attention to form usage, signatures, and completeness to avoid rejection.
- Common pitfalls include missing signatures, un-initialed changes, incomplete pricing, or unauthorized alternate proposals.