Accreditation has been developed for resorts in active sales (selling over 30 weeks per year).  The Accreditation process is a robust analysis of a resort's activities and a resort must agree to:

• Adherence to the OTE or TATOC code of ethics for selling or similar.
  
• The production of sales and marketing literature and sales support materials that make reference to the timeshare concept and provide an explanation of what timeshare is. This should be available before, during and after a consumers visit to the resort. This ruling includes the use of copy on websites and in any marketing provided by suppliers. 
  
•  Adherence to all published European legislation for the timeshare industry.
  
•  Provide clear evidence that a robust complaint handling process exists at the resort.
  
•  Adherence to appropriate fire, safety and food hygiene legislation and standards that prevail in the region of the resort.
  
•  The provision or proof of relevant resort insurance policy to suit the needs of the resort.

While these are stringent requirements, the resorts will be able to benefit from:

• Use of the TATOC logo on their printed materials and websites.
  
• Endorsement from a professional trade body.
  
• Regular newsletters and magazines and access to the TATOC website.
  
• Information documents, CD roms and tele-conferences relevant to timeshare industry issues such as market trends, resales and rentals, VAT, insurance, legislation, positive PR. Many of these are available to members on-line.
  
• Industry articles for inclusion in member newsletters.
  
• Case studies of best practice for both resorts and associations.
  
• Special offers available from timeshare businesses to the Timeshare Association's members. 
  
• Detailed survey results on various topics such as management fee, exchange provision, guidelines to changes in legislation, marketing timeshare, health and safety and best practice.
  
• Provision of speakers for resort AGMs.
  
• General legal and accounting advice.
  
•  Media and press release service for members.
  
• Discounted fees for attendance at the Timeshare Association's Annual Conference (held in conjunction with the AGM).  This is an outstanding networking opportunity for both owners representatives and industry delegates.
  
• Help desk facility for resort representatives to obtain further information regarding industry issues as required.
  
• The opportunity to contribute to the lobbying process with governmental departments.
  
• Access to the Timeshare Association's website members only section.

For further information on Accreditation and how your resort can become involved please contact Harry Taylor at:

Harry.taylor@timeshareassociation.org