9.106
Preaward surveys
Preaward surveys are a critical tool for contracting officers to verify a prospective contractor's responsibility before awarding a contract.
Overview
FAR 9.106 covers the procedures and requirements for conducting preaward surveys to determine if a prospective contractor is responsible and capable of fulfilling contract requirements. Preaward surveys are typically initiated when information available to the contracting officer is insufficient to make a responsibility determination. The section outlines when surveys should be conducted, how to request them, the process for interagency surveys, and the requirements for reporting survey results. These surveys assess financial, technical, production, and managerial capabilities, among other factors, to ensure the government only awards contracts to responsible contractors.
Key Rules
- Conditions for Preaward Surveys
- Preaward surveys are conducted when the contracting officer lacks sufficient information to determine a contractor's responsibility.
- Requests for Preaward Surveys
- Contracting officers must formally request a preaward survey, specifying the areas to be evaluated.
- Interagency Preaward Surveys
- When another agency has relevant information or expertise, interagency preaward surveys may be requested.
- Reports
- Survey results must be documented in a report, which forms part of the responsibility determination record.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Decide when a preaward survey is necessary, request the survey, and use the results in responsibility determinations.
- Contractors: Provide requested information and access for survey teams.
- Agencies: Conduct surveys, coordinate interagency efforts, and prepare reports.
Practical Implications
- Ensures only responsible contractors receive awards, reducing risk of nonperformance.
- Contractors should be prepared for surveys by maintaining up-to-date records and being responsive to requests.
- Delays or incomplete information can impact award timelines.