Construction Law
How to Improve Your Low BBB Rating Part 1
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) was created to combat false advertising and provide a platform for consumers and businesses to resolve complaints. When complaints go unaddressed, the BBB can do an investigation and assign your construction company with a low rating that reflects how your company interacts with clients. Homeowners and general contractors will take note of this rating when making their hiring decisions.
For the above reason, it is important that your construction company maintains a high BBB rating. In part one of this two-part article, our Fort Lauderdale construction lawyers at Cotney Construction Law will detail what the BBB takes into account when it makes its rating decisions. With a little effort, you can bring up a dreaded F rating.
What Decides a BBB Rating?
Just like school, the BBB uses an A-F scale. This score rises and falls according to a points system, and points can be earned or deducted based on a number of factors. These factors include the following:
- Is the business in violation of the law?
- How long has the business been in operation?
- Is the business transparent in its marketplace conduct?
- Did the business honor its BBB commitments?
- Have all licenses required by law been acquired?
- Is there government action against the business?
- Does the business comply with the BBB in regards to advertising and use of the BBB name?
On the above note, if your construction company is violating the law or operating without proper licensing, it is in your best interest to consult with a Fort Lauderdale construction lawyer.
Investigating Complaints
While customer reviews are not taken into account during the rating process, complaints filed with the BBB are. According to the BBB, the following factors are taken into account when investigating complaints:
- Number of complaints
- Business size
- Business response to complaints
- Time taken to resolve complaints
- Were the complaints resolved in a good faith effort?
- Patterns of complaints
- Age of complaints
Many of the above factors, such as the amount of time that your construction company has been in operation, are out of your control. However, there are a number of steps that your company can take to improve their BBB rating. To learn about the specific steps that your construction company can take to improve its BBB rating, please read part two.
If you would like to speak with a Fort Lauderdale construction lawyer, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.