9.106-2
Requests for preaward surveys
Contracting officers must provide clear, complete, and timely requests for preaward surveys to ensure effective evaluation of prospective contractors.
Overview
FAR 9.106-2 outlines the requirements for contracting officers when requesting a preaward survey of a prospective contractor. The regulation details the necessary information and documentation that must be included in the request to the surveying activity, ensuring that the survey is thorough, timely, and tailored to the needs of the acquisition. This process helps determine whether a prospective contractor is responsible and capable of fulfilling contract requirements before award.
Key Rules
- Identify Additional Information Needs
- The request must specify any extra factors or areas where more information is required about the prospective contractor.
- Include Solicitation Package and Performance History
- The complete solicitation package and any records of prior unsatisfactory performance must be provided unless already submitted.
- State Contracting Office Participation
- The request should indicate if the contracting office will be involved in the survey process.
- Specify Report Due Date
- The required completion date for the survey report must be stated, allowing at least 7 working days for the survey unless otherwise justified.
- Limit Survey Scope When Appropriate
- The request should limit the survey's scope to relevant areas when full coverage is unnecessary.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must prepare and submit detailed, timely requests for preaward surveys, including all required information and documentation.
- Contractors: May be subject to preaward surveys and should be prepared to provide information as requested.
- Agencies: Oversee the preaward survey process and ensure compliance with FAR requirements.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures preaward surveys are focused, efficient, and provide the necessary information for responsibility determinations.
- Properly structured requests help avoid delays and ensure that only qualified contractors are awarded contracts.
- Common pitfalls include incomplete requests, missing documentation, or unrealistic survey deadlines.