53.209-1
Responsible prospective contractors
FAR 53.209-1 mandates the use of specific standard forms for preaward surveys to ensure consistent and thorough evaluation of prospective contractors' responsibility.
Overview
FAR 53.209-1 prescribes the use of specific Standard Forms (SFs) for conducting preaward surveys of prospective contractors to assess their responsibility and qualifications before contract award. These forms cover various aspects such as general capability, technical ability, production capacity, quality assurance, financial capability, and accounting systems. The forms are referenced in FAR 9.106-1, 9.106-2, and 9.106-4, and are available for local reproduction from the GSA Forms Library. The use of these forms ensures a standardized approach to evaluating whether a contractor is responsible and capable of fulfilling contract requirements.
Key Rules
- Prescribed Forms for Preaward Surveys
- Contracting officers must use SF 1403 through SF 1408 to conduct comprehensive preaward surveys on prospective contractors.
- Form Availability and Reproduction
- The forms are authorized for local reproduction and can be accessed via the GSA Forms Library online.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must select and complete the appropriate preaward survey forms based on the type of evaluation required (general, technical, production, quality assurance, financial, or accounting system).
- Contractors: Should be prepared to provide information and documentation relevant to each survey area as requested.
- Agencies: Ensure proper use and retention of the prescribed forms during the preaward process.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures that all preaward surveys are conducted using standardized forms, promoting consistency and thoroughness in contractor responsibility determinations.
- Contractors should familiarize themselves with the information required by each form to expedite the survey process and avoid delays.
- Common pitfalls include incomplete or inaccurate information provided during the survey, which can impact responsibility determinations and contract awards.