Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Procurement Law 2026

Definition: Building information modelling (BIM) is a collaborative working method by which all relevant data about a structure are captured, managed and used in a digital model across the entire life cycle of the work.

Last updated: January 2026 · Legal status: Directive 2014/24/EU Art. 22(4), BVergG 2018 § 98(3), VgV § 11a

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What is building information modelling?

Building information modelling (BIM), known in German as Bauwerksdatenmodellierung, is a digital planning and collaboration method that consolidates all geometric, component and process information about a structure in a shared digital model. Unlike traditional CAD plans, a BIM model contains not only geometric information but also semantically enriched data on materials, costs, scheduling and operation.

In the procurement context, BIM has been expressly available as a technical requirement in public tenders since the 2014 procurement reform. Contracting authorities can require the use of BIM methods in construction and design contracts.

Use in tenders

Where contracting authorities require BIM, they must describe the technical requirements for the BIM model precisely in the procurement documents. Typical requirements:

• Requirements regarding the level of detail (LOD – Level of Development, or LOG/LOI)
• Specification of open data formats (IFC, BCF)
• Definition of the common data environment (CDE)
• Handover of the as-built model upon completion

The requirements must be proportionate and must not disproportionately disadvantage small and medium-sized enterprises.

Relationship with the German term

"Bauwerksdatenmodellierung" and "BIM" are used synonymously. In German administrative language and in standards (e.g. DIN SPEC 91400), the term BIM is often retained because it is internationally established. Austrian standards (ÖNORM A 6241) also use both terms.

For a more detailed treatment of the procurement-law aspects of BIM/building information modelling, see the article on BIM.

FAQ

Is BIM mandatory for public construction projects? In Austria and Germany, BIM is currently mandatory for certain federal infrastructure projects (motorways, rail). For other public projects, BIM is increasingly required but not yet generally prescribed.

Which standards govern building information modelling? The main standards are ISO 19650 (international), ÖNORM A 6241 (Austria) and DIN SPEC 91400 (Germany).

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Last updated: January 2026 All information without warranty. For legally binding advice, please consult a law firm specialising in procurement law.