Qualification requirements in construction tenders: what authorities ask for

1. Suitability to carry out the activity

The authority wants to see that your company is legally allowed to do this work, usually through the registration certificate and an activity code (CAEN) that matches the works. Some works also need authorizations or attestations from professional bodies.

2. Economic and financial standing

This is most often a minimum average annual turnover over a recent period, commonly three years. EU rules say the minimum annual turnover an authority requires should not exceed twice the estimated value of the contract, except in justified cases, so a requirement far above that is worth questioning with a written clarification.

Some tenders also ask for insurance or for evidence of financial ratios.

3. Similar works already done

The authority asks for a list of similar works completed in the last years, typically the last five years for works. Each entry needs proof that the works were done well, such as a reception record or a good execution certificate from the beneficiary.

Read what counts as similar. It may be defined by type of work, by value, or both, and a contract that is too different will not be accepted.

4. People, equipment and certificates

• Key staff, for example a site manager and a quality or technical execution officer, with the attestations the law and the tender require.
• Equipment and machinery you can put on site, owned or rented.
• Quality, environment and safety certificates such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001, when the tender asks for them.
• Authorizations for special works, for example electrical installations.

If you fall short

Not meeting a requirement does not always mean you cannot bid. The law allows a company to rely on the capacity of another entity, and to bid in an association with other companies, so that together you meet the requirements. A third party that supports you must really commit its resources to the contract.

Guarantees are the other hurdle. The tender may ask for a participation guarantee with the offer, and the winner provides a good execution guarantee, which by law may be at most 10% of the contract price without VAT. Make sure you can provide them before you decide to bid.

A quick screening checklist

1. Does the main CPV code and the type of works match what we do?
2. Is our average turnover above the minimum?
3. Do we have enough similar works, each with proof?
4. Do we have the staff, equipment and certificates required?
5. Can we provide the guarantees?
6. Is there enough time before the deadline?

Common questions

What turnover do I need for a construction tender?

It is set in each tender's data sheet, usually as a minimum average annual turnover over a recent period. EU rules say it should generally not exceed twice the estimated contract value.

Do I need similar works to qualify?

Often yes. Authorities usually ask for completed similar works from the last years, with proof of good execution. If you lack them, you can look at an association or at relying on another entity's capacity.

What is the maximum good execution guarantee?

By law, up to 10% of the contract price without VAT.

Sources and official references

• Legislație consolidată (legislatie.just.ro)
• Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement (EUR-Lex)
• ISC, Inspectoratul de Stat în Construcții
• ANAP, Agenția Națională pentru Achiziții Publice
• Garanția de bună execuție: ce este și când se aplică (e-juridic)

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Public procurement rules change, so always check the official sources above and the tender documentation. Reviewed 30 October 2026.