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Regulations, laws and compliance

Cure notice

Cure notice. A cure notice is a written letter from the contracting officer saying the contractor is failing to perform in a way that endangers the contract, and must fix, or 'cure,' the problem. The FAR generally provides 10 days, or longer if the CO allows, to cure.

Cure notices usually come before a termination for default for problems like poor quality or failing to make progress. They are not needed for a simple failure to deliver on time, where the government may go straight to a show cause notice or default.

Why it matters to a small contractor

A cure notice is serious but survivable. Respond in writing within the deadline, explain exactly what you are fixing and by when, and show proof. If the government caused the problem, say so with facts, politely.

Example

A janitorial contractor receives a cure notice after several failed inspections. Within 10 days, they add a supervisor, retrain staff, and send the CO a written corrective plan with inspection checklists.

Cure notice: common questions

How long do I have to respond to a cure notice?

The FAR generally gives 10 days, unless the contracting officer allows a longer period. The notice will state the deadline.

Is a cure notice the same as a show cause notice?

No. A cure notice asks you to fix the problem. A show cause notice asks why the contract should not be terminated for default.

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