FAR 52.232-39 — Unenforceability of Unauthorized Obligations
Voids any contractual obligation the contractor purports to bind the government to that was not authorized by an officer with binding authority.
When This Clause Applies
Required in most federal contracts.
What This Means for Contractors
Verbal commitments, modifications by unauthorized personnel, and 'directed' work outside the contract scope create no enforceable obligation on the government. Contractor must verify ordering authority before performing on uncertain instructions; cost of unauthorized work is generally not recoverable.
Common Pitfalls
- 1Performing on verbal direction without written confirmation
- 2Assuming a COR has CO-level authority (usually doesn't)
- 3Not maintaining records of who directed what
Related Topics
Related Clauses
Ordering
Specifies how orders are placed under IDIQ contracts — typically by the contracting officer or designated ordering activities.
Changes — Fixed-Price
Authorizes the contracting officer to make unilateral changes within the general scope of the contract — and requires the contractor to perform as changed, subject to equitable adjustment.
Continue Your Research
NAICS 518210 — Data Processing, Hosting, and Related Services
Find federal contracts under NAICS 518210. Common agencies, set-asides, contract values.
NAICS 541330 — Engineering Services
Find federal contracts under NAICS 541330. Common agencies, set-asides, contract values.
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