By Damian Walters, BiKBBI Chief Executive
Following the exciting launch of the Accredited Installation Methods (AiM) certification scheme earlier this week, I wanted to provide answers to some of the really pertinent questions that were raised both during and since the media and stakeholder briefing sessions.
Hopefully the below FAQs will provide a good insight into the scheme, for both those wanting to join and indeed those simply wanting more information.
What is AiM certification?
AiM is a certification scheme for the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom industry, specifically for businesses offering an installation service for the products they sell. Accreditation assesses how businesses deliver their installation service, covering a wide variety of topics. Full details of AiM can be found on our website www.bikbbi.org.uk/aim
What’s the big picture objectives of AiM certification?
It’s a vehicle our industry can use to raise standards and level the playing field. This ultimately will provide consistency of service for all stakeholders, supporting the overall health of our industry’s installation sector.
Why should the industry get behind AiM certification?
The purpose of the British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) is to drive positive change and improve KBB installation standards in the United Kingdom. AiM is another way in which our industry, and those businesses that operate within it, drive towards excellent standards.
Who can apply to become AiM certified?
Businesses that provide an installation service for fitted kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, work surfaces, appliances (including white goods, taps and showers), including designers, retailers, manufacturers and merchants.
Is AiM certification for the retail or construction industry?
Both. It’s applicable for businesses installing product in both construction sites and occupied domestic settings.
Is AiM certification applicable for shop fitters and commercial settings (hotels / restaurants etc)?
Yes. AiM certification is available to businesses delivering an installed service, regardless of the end user.
Neither my business nor my installers are registered with BiKBBI. Is that a problem?
No. AiM is not exclusive to current partners or registered installers. Of course, we’d love to speak to you about the benefits of registering, but it’s not mandatory for AiM certification.
Does business size matter for applicants?
No. AiM is available to small independent retail showrooms, franchises (individually or as a group), regional or national and international businesses.
My business has been trading for less than 5 years. Can I still become AiM certified?
Yes, we will accept applications from newer businesses. We may need to assess suitability against additional criteria.
Can individual installers become AiM certified?
No. Individual installers should consider registering with BiKBBI as an installation business.
Why become AiM certified?
Whether it’s formal recognition for your installation service or whether your business would benefit from advice, guidance and support in developing the service, AiM will provide an unrivalled insight for your business, reducing risk and strengthening your commercial opportunities.
Why is AiM certification different to other accreditations?
AiM is delivered by the UK’s only institute dedicated to KBB installation and covers a wide range of subjects extending beyond onsite standards. This scheme looks at the methodology behind installation and how businesses manage the process of installation.
Can AiM certification help me recruit more installers?
AiM is not a just a mark of assurance for customers, but it demonstrates that the certified business operates an ‘contractor friendly’ proposition. We hope that the certification will serve as a beacon for installers looking to work with businesses offering an installed service.
What is the process for applying for AiM certification?
The first step would be to register your interest here. A member of the team will organise a one-to-one online session to provide all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision and progress your application.
How does accreditation work?
Following application, the process focuses on business due diligence, moving onto a review of policies and procedures, then onsite to audit against front line management of standards. Businesses will be guided through the process by our auditor, allowed time and provided the support to strengthen their operation.
What’s required from those seeking certification?
Aside from the initial application, our auditor will work with your leadership team in accordance with the criteria of the scheme. This criteria is clarified during the application process. We will need full transparency (which will be subject to a legally binding NDA for your protection) and a single point of contact as we progress through the process.
What if I don’t meet the criteria?
AiM will support businesses to meet the criteria by identifying areas required for development. Advice, guidance and support will be provided throughout the process. There is no time limit for completing the process, but only those who meet the criteria will be awarded accreditation.
What is the role of the auditor?
The auditor’s role is to conduct the audit on behalf of BiKBBI. The auditor is an independent inspector and is responsible for assessing the applicant throughout the audit process. They provide written evidential submissions in accordance with the criteria, which is submitted to our AiM panel for sign off. They will provide access to guidance and support throughout.
How long does accreditation take?
For smaller businesses the process can take around 4 weeks from start to finish. For larger businesses, this can extend up to six months.
What happens when AiM certification is awarded?
A representative(s) of your business will be invited to attend a ceremony where certification will be formally presented. BiKBBI will issue a press release and share the news via our channels, and provide you with a toolkit to help your business capitalise on your accreditation. You’ll have full use of the AiM logo within your business, subject to branding guidelines.
How much does AiM certification cost?
Fees are based on annual turnover (last full year submitted accounts) and are paid monthly over a 12-month period, starting from the point of application. An initial application fee will be applied for businesses applying for the first time. Details of fees will be discussed during the application process.
How long does certification last?
Certification lasts one year from the date it’s awarded. Following completion of Year One, AiM certified businesses will have the option to extend certification, via an annual review against criteria.
How does the industry support AiM?
If you’re a business that provides an installation service for the products you sell, then apply for AiM certification. If you’re not, simply spread the word! Certification will benefit the entire industry, so it’s in everyone’s best interests to get behind this ground-breaking initiative.
Are there different levels of accreditation?
Not at this stage, but the scheme will evolve over time and with the support of those businesses that participate, and that could lead to levels of achievement.
If my business achieves AiM certification, will my installers become AiM certified?
No. Certification is for the business only. Installers can become registered to BiKBBI if they choose to, and retailers can become a Retail Installation Standards Partner if they want too – details can be found here.
How are onsite installation standards assessed on site?
Standards are assessed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, relevant British Standards for installation (BSi), Building Regulations, HSE regulation and any applicable by-laws based on the location of installation.
How will AiM evolve to ensure its continuous effectiveness?
The British Institute of KBB Installation has a proven track record of evolution and continual development of its proposition. AiM will work with the KBB industry to continually review AiM, its criteria and its effect on the wider industry.
How can I get more information about AiM certification?
Hopefully the answers to any questions you may have had have been answered here, but please to do get in touch if we can assist further – contact:
Email: chris.gliddon@bikbbi.org.uk
Visit www.bikbbi.org.uk/aim or
Call the team on 01375 213 199 during normal office hours.
EDUCATION | STANDARDS | SUSTAINABILITY | COMPLIANCE |
