Proving Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility check is the first step in bid evaluation. Only bidders meeting all criteria proceed to content evaluation. This guide shows you how to prove your eligibility professionally.
Which three eligibility categories does procurement law distinguish?
Procurement law distinguishes three categories:
1. Professional capacity: Trade register extract, professional registrations, industry-specific licenses 2. Economic and financial standing: Revenue from last three years, insurance coverage, bank references 3. Technical and professional ability: References, staff qualifications, equipment, quality management (ISO 9001)
What is the difference between a self-declaration and an evidence document?
- Self-declarations: Bidder confirms requirements are met (no insolvency, no misconduct). Submit with bid.
- Third-party certificates: Evidence from authorities (tax office, trade association). Often requested only from the preferred bidder.
Can missing eligibility documents be requested later?
Since the 2016 procurement reform, missing documents can be requested after submission (§ 56 VgV). However, this is at the authority's discretion and typically has a short deadline. Better to submit everything complete from the start.
How does prequalification save time when proving eligibility?
Prequalification (PQ) lets you centrally register common evidence. This saves you from resubmitting standard documents for every tender.
How do I organize my eligibility evidence efficiently?
- Maintain an eligibility folder with standard documents, updated quarterly
- Prepare reference sheets in a standardized format
- Check certificate validity periods (usually 6 months)
- Use Patterno HIT to find matching tenders early and prepare in time