Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) Practice Test

Which type of defects can lead to strict compliance rejection and contract termination?

1. Minor defects

2. Correctable defects

3. Major defects

4. Language defects

The correct answer is: Major defects

Major defects in a contract or a bid submission can result in strict compliance rejection and termination of the contract because they signify significant deviations from the requirements or standards outlined in the solicitation documents. These defects often include critical errors that affect the overall performance, quality, or functionality of the goods or services proposed. When a major defect is identified, it typically undermines the purpose of the contract or the integrity of the procurement process itself, leading to the conclusion that the proposal cannot reasonably fulfill the stipulated obligations. Such issues may include failure to meet mandatory specifications, non-compliance with essential legal or regulatory requirements, or substantial flaws that could not be efficiently corrected without impacting the project’s budget or timeline. In contrast, minor defects and correctable defects are generally considered less severe and usually can be amended without significant repercussions. Language defects might involve ambiguities or unclear terms but do not necessarily impede a bidder's overall qualifications. Thus, they do not trigger strict compliance rejection or result in contract termination to the same degree as major defects do. Understanding the implications of these varying types of defects is crucial for procurement professionals when evaluating bids and managing contracts effectively.