Accreditation & standards
What It Takes to Be BBB Accredited
BBB Accreditation means a business has been reviewed against BBB Accreditation Standards and has committed to maintaining those standards.
Preparing for Accreditation
Businesses generally need to demonstrate an established marketplace track record and meet applicable BBB Accreditation requirements.
- An established marketplace track record
- Meeting applicable competency and trade licensing requirements
- Appropriate marketplace conduct
- Maintaining at least a B BBB rating where required under the Accreditation Standards
- Following BBB's Standards for Trust
The 8 BBB Standards for Trust
These standards describe the conduct BBB Accredited Businesses commit to maintaining.
- 1
Build Trust
Establish and maintain a positive track record in the marketplace.
- 2
Advertise Honestly
Follow established legal and ethical advertising and selling practices.
- 3
Tell the Truth
Honestly represent products, services and material terms.
- 4
Be Transparent
Clearly identify the nature, location and ownership of the business and disclose important information customers need to make informed decisions.
- 5
Honor Promises
Fulfill contracts, commitments and representations.
- 6
Be Responsive
Address disputes forwarded by BBB quickly, professionally and in good faith.
- 7
Safeguard Privacy
Protect customer information and respect customers' preferences regarding how their information is used.
- 8
Embody Integrity
Approach marketplace transactions and commitments with integrity and good faith.
Staying Accredited
Accreditation is ongoing. Keep these practices in place throughout the year.
- Continue following the Standards for Trust
- Advertise honestly
- Respond to customers and BBB promptly
- Address complaints professionally
- Honor contracts and promises
- Maintain appropriate licenses
- Keep business information current
- Protect customer information
- Maintain the rating and other requirements established by BBB Accreditation Standards
- Keep Accreditation dues current