What is Below-Threshold Procurement?
Below-threshold procurement covers procedures for contracts not reaching EU thresholds. Less strict formal requirements apply, but fundamental principles must be observed.
Applicable Law
| Contract Type | Regulation | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Supplies/Services | UVgO | Federal and state |
| Construction | VOB/A Section 1 | All levels |
| Supplementary | State procurement laws | State-specific |
Procedure Types
Under UVgO: public tender, restricted tender (with/without competition), negotiated award, direct award up to €1,000. Under VOB/A: public tender, restricted tender, negotiated award.
Differences from Above-Threshold
Key differences: national/regional publication instead of TED, civil courts instead of procurement chambers, reasonable rather than statutory deadlines, and lower documentation requirements.
Legal Protection
No access to procurement chambers. Bidders can seek interim injunctions from civil courts, damages claims, or supervisory complaints.
Significance for Bidders
Approximately 80% of all public procurements fall below thresholds, with easier access, greater regional focus, and faster procedures.
Practical Tip
Patterno searches national and regional platforms to find below-threshold procurements matching your profile.