Better Business Bureau Code of Business Practices & Accreditation Standards

Better Business Bureau A ratingThe BBB Code of Business Practices represents sound advertising, selling and customer service practices that enhance customer trust and confidence in business. The Code is built on the BBB Standards for Trust, eight principles that summarize important elements of creating and maintaining trust in business.

This Code also represents standards for business accreditation by BBB. Businesses, such as AMERIMUTUAL MORTGAGE, that meet these standards and complete application procedures will be accredited by BBB.

To be accredited by BBB a business or organization affirms that it meets and will abide by the following standards:

1. Build Trust: Establish and maintain a positive track record in the marketplace.
An accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. Have been operational (actively selling products or services) in any BBB service area for at least the most recent 12 months, unless the principal(s) previously operated a similar business with an eligible record (one that qualifies for BBB accreditation).

B. Fulfill all licensing and bonding requirements of applicable jurisdictions; provide all license and bonding information upon application for BBB accreditation; and provide periodic updates upon request of BBB.

C. Be free from government action that demonstrates a significant failure to support BBB ethical principles in marketplace transactions (this requires a determination by BBB as to the nature of any
violation, whether it was caused or condoned by management, and actions taken to resolve underlying issues that led to the government action).

D. Be free of an unsatisfactory rating and maintain at least a B rating at the accrediting BBB and the BBB where it is headquartered, if different.

E. In its relationship with BBB:

  • meet all applicable standards within this Code of Business Practices
  • cooperate with BBB’s activities and efforts to promote voluntary self-regulation within the business’ industry
  • honor any settlements, agreements or decisions reached as an outcome of a BBB dispute resolution process
  • complete the required application and pay all monetary obligations to BBB in a timely manner

2. Advertise Honestly: Adhere to established standards of advertising and selling.
An accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. Follow federal, state/provincial and local advertising laws.

B. Abide by the BBB Code of Advertising. Supply, upon request, substantiation for advertising and selling claims. Correct advertising and selling practices, when recommended by BBB.

C. . Adhere to applicable BBB industry codes of advertising.

D. Cooperate with BBB self-regulatory programs for the resolution of advertising disputes.

E. Use the BBB name and logos in accordance with BBB policy.

F. Avoid misleading customers by creating the false impression of sponsorship, endorsement, popularity, trustworthiness, product quality or business size through the misuse of logos, trustmarks, pictures, testimonials, or other means.

3. Tell the Truth: Honestly represent products and services, including clear and adequate disclosures of all material terms.
An accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. Make known all material facts in both written and verbal representations, remembering that misrepresentation may result not only from direct statements but by omitting or obscuring relevant facts.

B. Ensure that any written materials are readily available, clear, accurate and complete.

4. Be Transparent: Openly identify the nature, location, and ownership of the business, and clearly disclose all policies, guarantees and procedures that bear on a customer’s decision to buy.
An accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. . Upon request, provide BBB with all information required to evaluate compliance with BBB standards. This may include, but is not limited to business name, address and contact information; names and background of principals; business and banking references; licensing and/or professional accreditation; and a complete description of the nature of the business.

B. Clearly disclose to customers:

  • direct and effective means to contact the business
  • terms of any written contract
  • any guarantees or warranties accompanying a product
  • any restrictions or limitations imposed (e.g. limited supply,maximum number available per customer)
  • the business’ return/refund policy
  • any recurring commitment into which the customer may be entering, including information on how future billing will occur
  • total cost of the transaction, including tax, shipping and handling, and other related charges

C. If selling products or providing services on Web sites or via other electronic means:

  • provide any required product labeling information
  • disclose the nature and terms of shipping, including any known delays or shortages of stock
  • provide an opportunity to review and confirm the transaction before the sale is completed
  • provide a receipt summarizing the transaction after the purchase

5. Honor Promises: Abide by all written agreements and verbal representations.
An accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. Fulfill contracts signed and agreements reached.

B. Honor representations by correcting mistakes as quickly as possible.

6. Be Responsive:  Address marketplace disputes quickly, professionally, and in good faith.
An accredited business or organization agrees to:

A. Promptly respond to all complaints forwarded by BBB by:
1. Resolving the complaint directly with the complainant and notifying BBB, or
2. Providing BBB with a response that BBB determines:

  • is professional
  • addresses all of the issues raised by the complainant