Overview
This section instructs contracting officers on the mandatory inclusion of the "Approval of Contract" clause in solicitations and contracts when dictated by specific agency internal regulations.
Key Rules
- Mandatory Insertion: Contracting officers must insert the clause at FAR 52.204-1, Approval of Contract, if required by their specific agency's procedures.
- Conditionality: The use of this clause is not universal; it is contingent upon supplemental agency-level policy rather than a blanket FAR requirement for all acquisitions.
- Purpose: The clause itself establishes that a contract is not binding until it receives formal, written approval by an authorized government official.
Practical Implications
- Performance Delay: Contractors should not commence work or incur costs until they receive notification that the required higher-level approval has been obtained, as the contract is not legally effective until that point.
- Verification: Acquisition professionals must consult their Agency Supplements (e.g., DFARS, AFARS, VAAR) to determine if their specific organization necessitates this additional layer of oversight.