Unauthorised Use Fee Schedule
Qelvea Refined Finish Index™
This Unauthorised Use Fee Schedule forms part of and should be read in conjunction with the Licensed Use Terms.
This schedule sets out administrative fees that may be applied where the Qelvea Refined Finish Index™ (RFI) name, wording, or marks are used without a valid licence or outside the permitted scope or period.
Fees are applied only where reasonable and proportionate and represent a genuine pre-estimate of administrative and reputational costs. They are not penalties.
Purpose of the Fee Schedule
The purpose of these fees is to:
- address administrative and governance time required to investigate misuse
- correct public misunderstanding created by unauthorised references
- protect licensed users who comply with the standard
- maintain clarity around the private nature of the RFI
When Fees May Apply
Fees may be applied where there is evidence of:
- use of RFI wording, logos, or marks without a valid licence
- continued use after expiry, suspension, or withdrawal
- misrepresentation of scope, level, or status
- implication of endorsement, regulation, or guarantee
- failure to comply with correction requests within a reasonable timeframe
Fee Schedule
| Category of Unauthorised Use | Description | Administrative Fee (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Misuse (Correctable) | Limited incorrect wording; no logo use; promptly corrected | £25 |
| Moderate Misuse | Use without licence or outside scope; removal required | £300 |
| Extended Misuse | Continued unauthorised use after notice | £500 |
| Commercial Misrepresentation | Use likely to mislead consumers or imply endorsement | £750 |
| Deliberate or Repeated Misuse | Pattern of non-compliance or refusal to correct | £1,000 |
Fees reflect administrative review, governance oversight, communication, and register updates where applicable.
Application of Fees
- Fees are not automatic and are applied case-by-case
- Consideration is given to intent, duration, and impact
- Correction requests may be issued before fees are applied
- Payment of a fee does not grant a licence or reinstate accreditation
Effect of Payment
Payment of an unauthorised use fee:
- resolves the administrative breach only
- does not imply approval, endorsement, or accreditation
- does not waive future compliance requirements
Failure to Comply
Failure to correct unauthorised use or pay applicable fees may result in:
- further enforcement action
- removal from the public register (where applicable)
- referral for legal advice if necessary
Review & Appeals
Application of fees may be reviewed under the Appeals & Complaints process to assess:
- whether procedures were followed
- whether the fee applied was proportionate
Updates to This Schedule
This Fee Schedule may be updated periodically.
The current published version applies at the time enforcement action is initiated.
Qelvea Refined Finish Index™
Protecting clarity through proportionate administration.