Certification
Earning Recognition Through Verified Standards
What it Means to Be Certified
A certified Quality Crusade contractor has undergone a multi-layer evaluation process that examines both technical construction methods and professional credibility.
Certification confirms that a contractor has:
Proven construction methodologies
Verified installation standards
Professional business practices
A consistent reputation within the industry
The willingness to be held accountable to measurable standards
Certification is also ongoing. Contractors must maintain their standards and may be subject to review or inspection if necessary.
Because of this rigorous process, Quality Crusade certification represents a significant professional achievement within residential construction.
Quality Crusade certifications are awarded based on the construction classification framework.
Certification Classes
Quality Crusade certifications are awarded based on the construction classification framework.
Contractors may be certified at:
Class 1 — Highest Performance
Advanced systems that significantly exceed code requirements through integrated engineering and performance design.
Class 2 — Engineered Above Code
Professionally engineered systems with improved materials, calculations, and durability beyond minimum standards.
Class 3 — Code Compliant
Confirmed compliance with building codes and industry standards using proper installation practices.
An Important Note About Class 3
Being certified Class 3 is still an honor.
It confirms that a contractor operates by the book and consistently meets recognized standards.
For homeowners, this provides meaningful peace of mind because the contractor’s practices have been professionally verified rather than assumed.
Quality Crusade recognizes that code-compliant work is still respectable and valid. The classification system simply helps clarify how construction methods may differ beyond baseline standards.
Scope-Based Certifications
Construction quality can vary across different areas of expertise.
A contractor may operate at different performance levels depending on the type of work being performed.
Because of this, Quality Crusade certifications are scope-specific.
For example, a contractor may be certified as:
Class 3 for general hardscape installation
Class 2 for structural retaining walls
Class 1 for integrated drainage and base systems
Each area of specialization can be individually evaluated and classified.
This allows contractors to demonstrate where they truly excel, while giving homeowners clear insight into which scopes have been independently verified.
Master Certification Rankings
The ranking system works as follows:
Class 1 represents the highest performance level
Class 2 represents engineered systems above code
Class 3 represents verified code-compliant construction
A contractor must earn a minimum of three individual certifications at any class level (or above) to earn a master ranking for that class.
The Certification Process
Earning certification requires a thorough review designed to validate both technical practices and professional integrity.
The evaluation process may include:
In-depth contractor interviews regarding construction methodologies
Technical review of installation practices and engineering approaches
Verification of real project methods through physical and social proof
Reputation monitoring within the industry and customer base
Professional reference checks
Business vetting and background review
Review of past legal actions or disputes
Verification of external certifications and industry credentials
Documentation review of past projects and installation details
Optional on-site inspections to confirm real-world practices
This process is designed to ensure that certification reflects actual field practices, not just marketing claims.
Eligibility
To apply for Quality Crusade certification, contractors must meet several baseline qualifications.
Applicants must:
Have been in business at least five years
Demonstrate consistent professional practices
Provide proof of installation methodologies
Maintain a positive industry reputation
Be willing to undergo verification and review
Allow potential site inspections if necessary
Contractors who meet these requirements may proceed through the certification process and apply for scope-specific classification review.
Begin Your Certification Journey
Request Certification Review
Submit your organization for Quality Crusade evaluation.
Begin the Certification Process
Start the formal application and scope review.
Discover Certified Contractors
Explore the growing list of verified Quality Crusade professionals.