52.246-15
Certificate of Conformance
A Certificate of Conformance allows shipment without source inspection only when authorized in writing, but contractors remain fully responsible for compliance and correction of any defects.
Overview
FAR 52.246-15, Certificate of Conformance, allows contractors to ship supplies or services with a Certificate of Conformance (CoC) instead of source inspection, but only when authorized in writing by the Contract Administration Office (CAO). This clause ensures that the contractor certifies compliance with all contract requirements, including quality, specifications, and documentation. The government retains the right to inspect and reject supplies or services after delivery if defects are found. The CoC must be properly completed, signed, and attached to relevant shipping and inspection documents, ensuring traceability and accountability for contract performance.
Key Rules
- Written Authorization Required
- Contractors may only use a Certificate of Conformance when the CAO provides written authorization; otherwise, standard inspection and acceptance procedures apply.
- Certificate Attachment
- The signed CoC must be attached to inspection or receiving reports sent to the payment office and included with shipments.
- Government Inspection Rights
- The government can still inspect and reject supplies or services after delivery if defects are found, requiring the contractor to correct or replace them at their own expense.
- Certificate Content
- The CoC must include specific information, such as date, contractor name, contract number, carrier, shipping document, and a certification statement of compliance.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure the clause is included when required and that CAO authorization is documented.
- Contractors: Obtain written CAO authorization, complete and attach the CoC as required, and promptly address any government-identified defects.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance, process documentation, and enforce corrective actions if necessary.
Practical Implications
- This clause streamlines shipping by allowing CoC use in lieu of source inspection, but only with proper authorization and documentation.
- Contractors must be diligent in preparing and distributing the CoC to avoid payment or acceptance delays.
- Failure to comply or address defects can result in rejection, rework, or financial liability.