Contractor Escapes Total Dismissal For Failure To Certify $500,000 “Severable” Claim

Often times the most difficult part of the government contract claims process is checking all the procedural “boxes” of a certified claim.  Failure to file a claim within six years of accrual, request a contracting officer’s final decision, or include a wet ink signature are just a few of the procedural technicalities required by the Contract Disputes Act (“CDA”) that can get a claim kicked out before the Board ever has a chance to get to the merits.  Another significant procedural requirement under the CDA is that, for claims of more than $100,000, the claimant must provide a certification that certifies (among other things) that the claim is supported by accurate and complete data and the amount requested accurately reflects the contract adjustment for which the claimant believes the government is liable.