American Roofing Contractors Organization
Accreditation Standards
ARCO Accreditation is the national benchmark for trust, professionalism, and craftsmanship in roofing. Only the top 10% of contractors earn this distinction through independent verification and ongoing compliance.
ARCO Accreditation
America's Gold Standard in Roofing Excellence
Independent verification • Annual re-verification • Random audits
Why Accreditation Matters
Homeowners deserve peace of mind. Contractors deserve recognition for excellence. ARCO bridges the gap by setting a national benchmark for what professionalism and trust in roofing should look like. Accreditation is never bought; it's earned through documentation, verified references, and ongoing compliance with our standards.
Core Accreditation Standards
To qualify for ARCO Accreditation, contractors must meet or exceed all seven standards. Each item is independently reviewed and verified by the ARCO Accreditation Team.
Legal & Licensing Compliance
Hold all required state and local licenses in good standing; ARCO verifies directly with issuing agencies.
Insurance & Liability Protection
Carry active general liability (≥ $1,000,000) and workers' compensation; proof verified annually.
Reputation & Client References
Provide 3+ recent homeowner references; ARCO confirms satisfaction and professionalism.
Quality of Workmanship
Demonstrate durable, code-compliant installations via photo evidence and, when needed, site review.
Safety & Crew Standards
Adhere to OSHA-level safety protocols; provide evidence of training and fall protection practices.
Professionalism & Communication
Maintain clear contracts, transparent estimates, responsive service, and timely issue resolution.
Financial Integrity & Ethics
Pass background/reputation screening; operate with honesty, stability, and ethical business practices.
Detailed Criteria
For transparency and SEO, these expandable items outline minimum thresholds, evidence requirements, and how ARCO verifies compliance.
1
Legal & Licensing Compliance
Legal & Licensing Compliance
- Active business registration with accurate ownership details.
- All state/local roofing licenses current and in good standing.
- ARCO verifies directly with issuing agencies; mismatches disqualify.
2
Insurance & Liability Protection
Insurance & Liability Protection
- General liability insurance (≥ $1,000,000 standard).
- Workers' compensation insurance (where required by state).
- Proof of coverage verified annually.
3
Reputation & Client References
Reputation & Client References
- 3+ recent homeowner references provided.
- ARCO contacts references to confirm satisfaction.
- Background screening; no unresolved legal disputes.
4
Quality of Workmanship
Quality of Workmanship
- Portfolio of completed projects with photo evidence.
- Code compliance, durability, and aesthetic quality.
- Site inspections conducted when needed.
5
Safety & Crew Standards
Safety & Crew Standards
- Written OSHA-aligned safety program.
- Fall protection and equipment requirements documented.
- Crew training records and certifications up to date.
6
Professionalism & Communication
Professionalism & Communication
- Clear, written contracts with transparent terms.
- Detailed estimates and warranty information provided.
- Responsive to inquiries; issues resolved promptly.
7
Financial Integrity & Ethical Conduct
Financial Integrity & Ethical Conduct
- No fraud, misrepresentation, or unethical business practices.
- Honest pricing and fair dealing with customers.
- Compliance with consumer protection regulations.
ARCO's 7-Step Verification
A structured, repeatable workflow ensures each applicant is reviewed consistently, fairly, and thoroughly.
Application Submission
Entity info, documents, and contacts provided.
License Verification
State/local agencies verify licenses directly.
Insurance Verification
GL + workers' comp coverage confirmed.
Reference Checks
Direct homeowner interviews conducted.
Background & Legal Screening
Complaints/judgments reviewed.
Quality Review
Photo set and/or site inspection.
Final Approval & Accreditation
Annual renewal process initiated.
Maintaining Accreditation
Accreditation is earned and maintained. Ongoing obligations keep the ARCO directory trustworthy for homeowners nationwide.
Annual renewal and re-verification of licenses and insurance.
Prompt responses to customer complaints and ARCO inquiries.
Random audits and spot checks at ARCO's discretion.
Adherence to ARCO's Code of Ethics at all times.
Notification to ARCO of material business changes.
Continual training and safety best-practice updates.
ARCO Code of Ethics
Every accredited contractor pledges to uphold these standards. Violations may result in suspension or removal.
- • Honest, transparent advertising and sales practices.
- • Fair pricing, clear contracts, and honored warranties.
- • Respect for homeowner property and cleanliness.
- • Safe, lawful, and compliant job sites.
- • Quality workmanship meeting or exceeding industry standards.
- • Professional communication and timely resolutions.
- • Continuous improvement via training and innovation.
- • Zero tolerance for fraud or misrepresentation.
The Value of Accreditation
For Homeowners
Peace of mind from a contractor vetted at the national level. Verified licenses and insurance, proven workmanship, and an enforceable Code of Ethics.
For Contractors
A prestigious trust mark that differentiates your firm, speeds homeowner trust, and validates your commitment to quality, safety, and ethics.
Earn Your Place Among America's Top 10% Roofing Contractors
Accreditation is limited to firms that meet every ARCO standard.