Vermont Professional Trade Network Certification Requirements

1. Licensing & Registration

• Must hold a valid Vermont state license (if applicable to trade).

• Must be registered with the Vermont Secretary of State as an active business.

• Must provide proof of any required local permits (where relevant).

 

2. Insurance Verification

• Proof of General Liability Insurance — minimum $500,000 coverage.

• Proof of Workers' Compensation Insurance (if the company employs staff).

• Additional relevant insurance (e.g., auto, bonding) is recommended but optional.

3. Business History & Operations
Minimum of 2 years in business under the current company name.
Must operate primarily within Vermont or neighboring regions.
Must maintain an active business address (no PO boxes as sole address).

4. Customer References & Reviews

• Provide 3 recent customer references (from within the last 12 months).

• Maintain an average 4.0+ star rating across Google, Facebook, Yelp, or other review platforms.

• No unresolved BBB complaints or major legal disputes in the past 12 months.

5. Code of Ethics Agreement

• Must agree to and sign the VPTN Code of Ethics, which includes:

  • Honesty in advertising and pricing.

  • Timely communication with clients.

  • Commitment to complete work to agreed standards.

  • Respect for client property and privacy.

  • Resolution of disputes in good faith.

6. Trade-Specific Standards

• Must meet any additional requirements specific to their field (e.g. electrical contractors must show up-to-date state licensing).

• For specialties like mold remediation, radon mitigation, or lead abatement — must provide proof of certification.

7. Business Conduct

• No record of felony convictions related to fraud, theft, or violence.

• No significant legal judgments against the business in the past 5 years.

• Must maintain good standing with Vermont state and local agencies.

8. Ongoing Compliance

• Certification is valid for 12 months; businesses must recertify annually.

• Businesses agree to periodic random checks or reviews to ensure continued compliance.

• Complaints filed by consumers may trigger a review or suspension of certification.