American Roofing Contractors Organization
Accreditation Requirements
ARCO accreditation is earned, not bought. Contractors who qualify have demonstrated exemplary licensing, safety, workmanship, and ethics. This page outlines the exact bar to meet and keep your standing in America's Top 10%.
Legitimacy & Licensing
Active business entity, proper state/local licenses, clean standing.
Safety & Insurance
OSHA-aligned program, GL & Workers' Comp with adequate limits.
Quality & Integrity
Proven workmanship, satisfied clients, ethical business practices.
1. Eligibility Criteria
To apply for ARCO accreditation, contractors must meet the following baseline requirements:
Valid business registration
- Legally established entity (LLC, corporation, etc.)
- All required state/local licenses and tax registrations
Insurance & financial responsibility
- General liability insurance at adequate limits
- Workers' compensation (where applicable)
- Evidence of financial stability
Background & integrity review
- No material ethical violations or license suspensions
- Clean civil/criminal record related to trade practices
Commitment to ongoing standards
- Agree to ARCO Code of Conduct & performance guidelines
- Allow periodic audits, inspections, and peer reviews
Roofing industry experience
- Minimum 5 years in the trade (recommended baseline)
- Demonstrated track record of completed projects
Bonding / surety (as applicable)
- Capability to obtain performance bonds when required
Safety compliance & training
- OSHA-aligned safety program in place
- Ongoing staff training and safety audits
2. Accreditation Process
A clear, multi‑step path from application to ongoing monitoring.
Application Submission
Provide organizational info, project history, insurance certificates, and financials.
Document Verification
ARCO reviews and verifies licenses, insurance, financials, and conducts background checks.
Site Audit / Field Evaluation
We may inspect active job sites for workmanship quality and safety compliance.
Leadership Interview
Discuss QA processes, warranties, customer service, and complaint resolution.
Committee Decision
The ARCO Accreditation Committee votes on approval or outlines remediation.
Renewal & Monitoring
Annual renewal with periodic spot checks to ensure standards are maintained.
3. Performance & Quality Standards
Customer Satisfaction & Warranties
- Maintain an average of 4.0/5.0+ on post-job surveys.
- Resolve warranty claims promptly and transparently.
Timeliness & Responsiveness
- Respond to inquiries and service calls within SLA targets.
- Provide clear schedules and communicate delays proactively.
Continuing Education
- Complete annual training hours for safety and new materials.
- Document crew competencies and certifications.
Defect / Failure Rates
- Track incidents and root causes; keep rates below set thresholds.
- Report notable incidents to ARCO within defined timeframes.
Codes & Manufacturer Compliance
- Install strictly per local building codes and manufacturer specs.
- Maintain documentation of certifications and crew training.
4. Rights & Responsibilities
Rights
- Use of ARCO Accreditation logo and branding
- Directory listing and featured contractor opportunities
- Access to training, resources, and marketing support
- Eligibility to bid on ARCO‑affiliated projects
Responsibilities
- Proper, approved usage of the accreditation mark
- Report changes in licensing, insurance, or ownership
- Allow periodic audits and cooperate on complaints
- Uphold ARCO ethics, service, and performance standards
5. Revocation, Suspension & Appeals
ARCO may suspend or revoke accreditation for material violations. Contractors have the right to appeal.
Grounds for Action
- • Material misrepresentation in application
- • Lapse in licensing, insurance, or financial stability
- • Substandard work or code violations
- • Ethical breaches, fraud, or unresolved complaints
- • Non‑compliance with audits or renewals
Appeals Path
- • Written notice details reasons for proposed action.
- • Response window (e.g., 30 days) to submit evidence.
- • Review hearing by an independent committee.
- • Final decision; remediation may be required.
6. Fees & Renewal
Application Fee
Covers administration, document checks, and audit prep.
Annual Renewal Fee
Maintains directory listing and ongoing oversight.
Special Audit Costs
If travel or additional inspections are required.
Late renewals may incur fees. Lapsed accreditation requires reinstatement review.
Ready to see if you qualify?
Start the quick pre‑qualification to learn if your company meets ARCO's standards before submitting the full application.