Qelvea Refined Finish Index™
Qelvea Standards is committed to protecting the integrity, clarity, and public understanding of the Qelvea Refined Finish Index™ (RFI).
This page explains what constitutes misuse of the RFI and how enforcement is applied.
Purpose of Enforcement
Enforcement exists to:
- prevent misrepresentation of the RFI
- protect licensed users who comply with the standard
- avoid consumer confusion
- maintain confidence in a private professional framework
Enforcement is applied proportionately and consistently.
What Constitutes Misuse
Misuse of the RFI includes, but is not limited to:
Misrepresentation of Status
- claiming accreditation where none exists
- continuing to reference accreditation after expiry, suspension, or withdrawal
- overstating the scope or level of recognition
Unauthorised Use
- using the RFI name, wording, or marks without a valid licence
- displaying badges or logos outside the licensed period
- use by third parties not covered by the licence
Misleading Implications
- implying regulation, government approval, or endorsement
- describing the RFI as a certification or guarantee
- using prohibited wording contrary to Approved Advertising Wording
Improper Presentation
- removing required disclaimers
- presenting accreditation in a way likely to mislead
- combining RFI references with exaggerated or comparative claims
How Misuse Is Identified
Misuse may be identified through:
- routine monitoring
- reports from professionals or members of the public
- review of marketing materials
- verification of public register listings
All reports are reviewed objectively.
Enforcement Approach
Enforcement is graduated and proportionate, taking into account:
- nature of the misuse
- intent
- duration
- impact on public understanding
Typical steps may include:
- Clarification or Correction Request
- Formal Notice
- Suspension of Licensed Use
- Withdrawal of Accreditation
- Application of Unauthorised Use Fees
Not all cases require progression through every stage.
Unauthorised Use Fees
Where applicable, unauthorised use fees may be applied to reflect:
- administrative costs
- governance time
- reputational impact
Such fees:
- represent a genuine pre-estimate of cost
- are not penalties
- are applied only where reasonable and proportionate
Effect of Suspension or Withdrawal
Where accreditation is suspended or withdrawn:
- all references to the RFI must cease immediately
- logos, wording, and marks must be removed
- public register listings may be updated or removed
Failure to comply may result in further enforcement action.
Reporting Misuse
Concerns relating to misuse may be reported via the Contact page.
Reports should include:
- details of the alleged misuse
- supporting information where available
Reports are handled confidentially and proportionately.
Appeals & Review
Enforcement actions may be reviewed in accordance with the Appeals & Complaints process.
Reviews consider:
- whether procedures were followed correctly
- whether enforcement was proportionate
They do not reassess stylistic or professional judgement.
Limitations
Enforcement under the RFI:
- does not constitute regulation
- does not replace legal remedies
- relates solely to administration of a private professional standard
The Qelvea Refined Finish Index™
Protecting clarity through proportionate enforcement.
START
│
▼
Potential Misuse Identified
│
├─ Source:
│ • Routine monitoring
│ • Public or professional report
│ • Register review
│
▼
Initial Review
(Objective, evidence-based)
│
├─ Is there a credible issue?
│ │
│ ├─ NO → Case closed (no action)
│ │
│ └─ YES
│
▼
Misuse Categorised
│
├─ Minor / Correctable
├─ Moderate
├─ Extended
└─ Deliberate / Repeated
│
▼
Proportionate Response Selected
│
├─ Clarification or Correction Request
│
├─ Formal Notice Issued
│
├─ Suspension of Licensed Use
│
├─ Withdrawal of Accreditation
│
└─ Application of Unauthorised Use Fee
│
▼
Corrective Action Required
│
├─ Misuse corrected?
│ │
│ ├─ YES → Case resolved
│ │
│ └─ NO
│
▼
Escalation (If Necessary)
│
├─ Further enforcement action
├─ Additional fees (where proportionate)
└─ Register update or removal
│
▼
Right to Review
(Appeals & Complaints Process)
│
├─ Procedural review only
├─ Proportionality assessed
└─ Final decision issued
│
▼
END
KEY PRINCIPLES
Enforcement is graduated and proportionate
Fees are administrative, not penalties
Payment does not grant or reinstate licensed use
Appeals assess procedure, not aesthetic judgement
The RFI is a private professional standard