What is CraftAuthority Alliance?
CraftAuthority Alliance is an independent standards body for home improvement. We verify contractor credentials, maintain continuous standing records, and provide homeowners with tools to make safer hiring decisions. We are not a government agency — we are a private trust program.
How much does contractor certification cost?
Founding 500™ certification is $499 due at approval ($100 non-refundable application fee + $399 first year dues). After the first year, certification renews at $499/year while active and in good standing. A monthly payment option is available for qualified contractors: $100 first month, with the remaining balance split across the next 11 months.
What does "good standing" mean?
Good standing means: active membership (renewed on time), required licensing and registration maintained, insurance maintained if claimed or required, responsive to verification updates and complaint inquiries, no unresolved enforcement actions, and consent to random audits at CraftAuthority's discretion.
How do homeowner memberships work?
Homeowner memberships start at $5/year (Standard) for access to the Trust Library, verification tools, and checklists. Founding Homeowner is $30 for 3 years and includes priority support, charter ID, and exclusive privileges. Premium is $249 for 3 years and adds contract review, concierge matching, and dispute mediation.
What is a Signal?
A Signal is an evidence-anchored report submitted by homeowners, contractors, or other parties. Signals are not public reviews — they are internal records used to detect patterns and reinforce accountability. One report does not decide anything; patterns do.
Is CraftAuthority a government agency?
No. CraftAuthority Alliance is a private standards-based membership and certification program. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. Certification is a standards-based designation, not a warranty or insurance product.
Can I verify a contractor for free?
Yes. Our 60-second verification checklist and Trust Library are free for everyone. You can also submit a verification request for additional checking. Paid memberships provide access to deeper tools like contract review and bid comparison.
What happens after I apply as a contractor?
After paying the application fee and submitting your credentials, our team reviews your documentation within 5–10 business days. If approved, you receive a member ID, public standing page, badge kit, and access to the Contractor Value Pack. Approval is not guaranteed — it is earned through verification.
Are application fees refundable?
No. Application fees are non-refundable and do not guarantee approval. Membership and certification payments are also non-refundable except to correct billing errors or duplicate charges.
What is the Founding 500™?
The Founding 500™ is the first 500 approved and active certified contractors nationwide. Founders keep their rate locked at $499/year while active and in good standing. Once the Founding 500 fills, new applicants enter the Early Ally tier at $825/year.
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