<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" citation="COMAR 21.09.01.04" title_num="21" subtitle_num="09" chapter_num="01" heading="Reasonable Costs.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>Any cost is reasonable if, in its nature or amount, it does not exceed that which would be incurred by an ordinarily prudent person in the conduct of competitive business in that industry.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>In determining the reasonableness of a given cost, consideration shall be given to:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Requirements imposed by the contract terms and conditions;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Whether the cost is of a type generally recognized as ordinary and necessary for the conduct of the contractor's business or the performance of the contract;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>The restraints inherent in, and the requirements imposed by, these factors as generally accepted sound business practices, arms' length bargaining, and federal and State laws and regulations;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>The action that a prudent business manager would take under the circumstances, including general public policy and considering responsibilities to the owners of the business, employees, customers, and the State;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(5)">
      <text>Significant deviations from the contractor's established practices which may unjustifiably increase the contract costs; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(6)">
      <text>Any other relevant circumstances.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>