self-reporting

Self-reporting is a contract monitoring tool where suppliers report on their own compliance with contractual obligations during the execution of a public contract. While a self-declaration is used as preliminary evidence during the tender phase, self-reporting takes place after the contract is signed — as part of ongoing contract management.

How does self-reporting work?

The contracting authority sends a self-reporting form to the supplier, who must answer questions about compliance with the requirements set out in the contract. Self-reporting typically covers two main areas:

• Wages and working conditions: The supplier reports on the employment terms they offer their workers. Under EU and EEA procurement frameworks, contracting authorities are expected to carry out adequate controls to ensure compliance, and self-reporting forms a key part of this monitoring.
• Human rights in the supply chain: For high-risk products, the form includes questions about the supplier's due diligence assessments in line with the OECD Guidelines for Responsible Business Conduct, structured across six steps.

In Norway, the Agency for Public and Financial Management (DFØ) recommends that self-reporting forms are issued at the time of contract signing and returned within six weeks. New forms should be collected annually throughout the contract period. The responses form the basis for risk assessments — if red flags are identified, the contracting authority can proceed with documentation reviews and on-site inspections.

When should self-reporting be used?

• In service and works contracts where regulations on wages and working conditions apply
• In framework agreements with large suppliers for high-risk products (simplified forms available for lower-value procurements)
• When labour integrity requirements demand systematic follow-up of working conditions

Announcing the self-reporting requirement in the contract notice can have a preventive effect against non-compliance during the contract period. Tools like Cobrief can help suppliers keep track of reporting obligations and deadlines across active contracts.

Self-reporting is a key mechanism for ensuring that public contracts are fulfilled as agreed. Combined with dialogue and independent verification, it contributes to a responsible and transparent supplier market.