Qelvea Refined Finish Index™
The Qelvea Refined Finish Index™ (RFI) name, marks, accreditation references, and associated materials are protected intellectual property.
Use without authorisation undermines the integrity of the standard and is not permitted.
What Constitutes Unauthorised Use
Unauthorised use includes, but is not limited to:
- using RFI accreditation wording without approval
- displaying RFI marks without a valid licence
- continuing to reference accreditation after expiry, suspension, or withdrawal
- using RFI logos, badges, or imagery without consent
- implying accreditation, endorsement, or assessment where none exists
Unauthorised Use Fee
Where unauthorised use is identified, Qelvea Standards may apply an Unauthorised Use Fee.
Fee Amount
£750 per instance of unauthorised use
An “instance” includes:
- each website or domain
- each social media profile
- each printed or digital marketing asset
- each separate promotional campaign
Image & Visual Asset Misuse
Where Qelvea-owned images, accreditation badges, or visual assets are used without consent:
Fee Amount
£250 per image or visual asset
This applies whether the asset is:
- modified or unmodified
- cropped or recoloured
- displayed publicly or privately for promotion
Ongoing or Repeated Use
Where unauthorised use continues after notice:
- fees may apply per 30-day period until use ceases
- accreditation eligibility may be suspended or refused
- further legal action may be considered
Why Fees Are Applied
These fees are not penalties.
They represent a reasonable estimate of licensing, administrative, and reputational costs incurred due to unauthorised use.
They exist to:
- protect licensed users
- preserve the credibility of the Index
- deter misuse without litigation
Resolution Before Escalation
Where possible, Qelvea Standards will:
- notify the party of unauthorised use
- request immediate removal or correction
- issue an invoice for applicable fees
Failure to resolve may result in escalation.
Relationship to Accreditation
Payment of an unauthorised use fee:
- does not grant accreditation
- does not imply future approval
- does not replace assessment or licensing
Accreditation must be applied for separately.
Reservation of Rights
Qelvea Standards reserves the right to:
- waive fees at its discretion
- apply reduced or increased fees based on severity
- pursue injunctive relief or legal remedies where necessary
The Qelvea Refined Finish Index™
Licensed use protects everyone.