52.252-3
Alterations in Solicitation
FAR 52.252-3 requires clear identification and documentation of any alterations made to a solicitation, ensuring transparency for all offerors.
Overview
FAR 52.252-3, "Alterations in Solicitation," provides a standard provision for contracting officers to use when they need to revise or supplement specific parts of a solicitation during the solicitation phase. This clause ensures that any changes made to the solicitation are clearly identified and documented, except for provisions authorized for use with a deviation. The intent is to maintain transparency and clarity for all offerors regarding any modifications to the original solicitation documents.
Key Rules
- Use of Provision
- This provision must be included in solicitations when alterations to the solicitation are necessary, except for deviations.
- Clear Identification
- Any changes or alterations made must be clearly identified within the solicitation to inform all potential offerors.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must insert this provision when altering solicitation documents and ensure all changes are clearly documented.
- Contractors: Should review the solicitation for any listed alterations to understand the requirements and respond accordingly.
- Agencies: Must ensure compliance with FAR 52.107(c) and proper use of this provision.
Practical Implications
- This clause exists to ensure transparency and consistency in the solicitation process, reducing confusion or disputes about solicitation requirements.
- Contractors must pay close attention to any listed alterations to avoid submitting non-compliant proposals.
- Common pitfalls include overlooking altered sections or misunderstanding the scope of changes, which can lead to proposal errors or disqualification.