ACS compliance: Using trademarks and making accreditation claims
How to remain compliant as an SIA approved contractor while using trademarks and making claims about your accreditation.
Be accurate and up to date
You must make sure all claims about your memberships, certifications, or accreditations are accurate and current. This includes what you say on your:
- website
- marketing materials
- customer communications
Misleading claims, even if unintentional, can damage trust. They may lead us to raise an improvement need or issue another type of sanction. They may also expose you to legal action.
What we check
We and your assessor will:
- review your website, brochures, certificates, and invoices
- check that logos and claims match what you’ve declared
- ask for evidence if we cannot verify your membership online
What you must do
To stay compliant, you must:
- give your assessor evidence to support each claim
- keep your website and promotional materials up to date
- remove any expired accreditations promptly
Legal risks
You may be guilty of unfair commercial practices if you:
- advertise services in a way that could mislead customers
- leave out important information
- use deceptive after-sales practices
The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 prohibits such practices. If we find out that you are conducting business in this way, we will refuse your ACS application. In serious cases, we may refer you to Trading Standards or the relevant membership body.
Relevant ACS requirements
We may raise an improvement need under the following self-assessment workbook indicators:
- 1.3.1 – The management of internal and external communications is handled effectively
- 3.2.3 – The organisation implements a process for obtaining new business
These are the relevant ACS conditions:
- condition 12(c): Misuse of the ACS accreditation mark
- condition 14: Failing to uphold the integrity of the scheme