Legal Definitions - chilling the bidding

Definition: Chilling the bidding refers to the act of creating a negative impact on the bidding process, which can lead to a decrease in the number of bids or the value of the bids. This can happen due to various reasons, such as lack of transparency, fear of legal action, or uncertainty about the future.

Examples:

• Chilling effect: A company may decide not to bid on a project due to the fear of legal action or negative consequences. This can create a chilling effect on the bidding process, as other companies may also become hesitant to bid.
• Chilling a sale: A seller may intentionally create a negative impact on the bidding process to discourage potential buyers from bidding or to lower the value of the bids. For example, a seller may spread rumors about the property being sold, which can create uncertainty and decrease the number of bids.

The above examples illustrate how chilling the bidding can have a negative impact on the bidding process and the value of the bids. It can create a sense of uncertainty and fear among the bidders, which can lead to a decrease in competition and the value of the bids.