Overview
This section establishes the regulatory boundaries for FAR Subpart 36.6, specifying that it governs the policies and procedures for procuring architect-engineer (A-E) services. It ensures these specialized services are handled consistently, whether through direct contracts or orders placed via multi-agency vehicles.
Key Rules
- Primary Governance: Subpart 36.6 is the authoritative source for the acquisition procedures of all architect-engineer services.
- Multi-Agency Applicability: The rules apply specifically to orders for A-E services issued under multi-agency contracts.
- Regulatory Cross-Reference: Integrates requirements from FAR 16.505(a)(9) regarding the placement of orders under indefinite-delivery contracts.
Practical Implications
- Contracting officers must use the qualifications-based selection procedures (Brooks Act) prescribed in this subpart rather than traditional price-based competition, even when using interagency acquisition vehicles.
- The scope ensures there is no "loophole" for A-E services when using multi-agency contracts; the specialized selection processes remain mandatory.