What is FAR 52.241-3?

FAR 52.241-3 (Scope and Duration of Contract.) is a federal acquisition regulation clause that may be included in government contracts. It falls under the general category.

When is FAR 52.241-3 required?

FAR 52.241-3 is typically required when the contracting officer determines it's applicable to the specific procurement. Check the solicitation's Section I for included clauses.

Does FAR 52.241-3 flow down to subcontractors?

Whether FAR 52.241-3 flows down depends on the specific clause language and contract type. Review the clause text for flow-down provisions.

Low RiskFARGeneral

52.241-3 — Scope and Duration of Contract.

Last updated: 2026-04

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

FAR 52.241-3 — Scope and Duration of Contract.. This clause is part of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and may be included in government contracts as a solicitation provision or contract clause.

Official Regulation Text

52.241-3 Scope and Duration of Contract. As prescribed in 41.501(c)(2), insert a clause substantially the same as the following: Scope and Duration of Contract (FEB 1995) (a) For the period __________, [ insert period of service ] the Contractor agrees to furnish and the Government agrees to purchase __________ [ insert type of service ] utility service in accordance with the applicable tariff(s), rules, and regulations as approved by the applicable governing regulatory body and as set forth in the contract. (b) It is expressly understood that neither the Contractor nor the Government is under any obligation to continue any service under the terms and conditions of this contract beyond the expiration date. (c) The Contractor shall provide the Government with one complete set of rates, terms, and conditions of service which are in effect as of the date of this contract and any subsequently approved rates. (d) The Contractor shall be paid at the applicable rate(s) under the tariff and the Government shall be liable for the minimum monthly charge, if any, specified in this contract commencing with the period in which service is initially furnished and continuing for the term of this contract. Any minimum monthly charge specified in this contract shall be equitably prorated for the periods in which commencement and termination of this contract become effective. (End of clause) [59 FR 67023, Dec. 28, 1994]
Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.241-3 (https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-48/section-52.241-3)

Compliance Checklist

(c) The Contractor shall provide the Government with one complete set of rates, terms, and conditions of service which are in effect as of the date of this contract and any subsequently approved rates.
(d) The Contractor shall be paid at the applicable rate(s) under the tariff and the Government shall be liable for the minimum monthly charge, if any, specified in this contract commencing with the period in which service is initially furnished and continuing for the term of this contract.
Any minimum monthly charge specified in this contract shall be equitably prorated for the periods in which commencement and termination of this contract become effective.

Flow-Down to Subcontractors

No flow-down required

This clause applies only to the prime contract and does not need to be flowed down to subcontractors.

Frequently Asked Questions

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This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.