Contractor Support Services recognizes certification at four levels:
* Apprentice
An apprentice level property preservation contractor is someone who has contributed in some way to property preservation projects, but is still striving to acquire the skills and standing in the community to make more significant contributions. Ideally, the Apprentice is in touch with either an individual mentor or a community that helps to gain these skills. An Apprentice spends a significant amount of time learning the craft of property preservation, whether by hands-on practice, independent study, or careful observation.
* Journeyman
Property Preservation Certified Contractors at the Journeyman Level are the people who make it happen. A journeyman contributes significantly to property preservation jobs and may have developed innovative solutions to unique preservation problems. A Journeyman is generally a competent property preservation contractor, but significant contributions of documentation, sharing and hard work counts too. Ideally, a Journeyman works with others in the property preservation community to polish and refine techniques of the trade. While not necessarily the equivalent of full time, a Journeyman spends a significant amount of time on property preservation assignments.
* Craftsman
A craftsman is a professional whose work is consistently of high quality. The Craftsman Level Certification is the highest level of testing and certification offered by Contractor Support Services (CSS) with the Master Level Certification being earned through experience and contribution to the industry.
* Master
The Property Preservation Master Level Certification is a non-tested level of achievement bestowed by Contractor Support Services according to specific requirements. A Master is the principal contractor company owner or employee or industry related company that exhibits an outstanding quality of service and/or support. A Master Level Property Preservation Contractor has command of the property preservation environment and is an excellent example of a property preservation business or contractor. Generally, a Master Level Property Preservation Contractor work full time in property preservation and is willing to share knowledge with others. Qualification for Master Level Certification is by peer review.
