Learn About the REA Process With Federal Contracts

In this episode of the Contract Warrior Podcast, Christopher Williams — former NAVFAC Contracting Officer with 17 years of experience — provides a practical breakdown of how Request for Equitable Adjustments (REAs) function within federal contracts. This episode explains the four levels of contract communication — emails, RFIs, REAs, and claims — and how contractors should navigate each level. It also covers what should be included in an REA package, the importance of timing and notice requirements, and how contracting officers evaluate REAs using allowability, allocability, and reasonableness. If you are working on federal construction, A&E, or service contracts, this episode provides a clear framework for managing contract changes and avoiding unnecessary disputes.