Accommodation Certification is the official process of inspection and verification confirming that a tourist accommodation establishment complies with specific technical and operational requirements related to quality, safety, and organization.
It applies to tourist accommodations classified into categories, such as hotels rated with stars and rental rooms or furnished apartments classified with keys.
The classification certificate constitutes essential evidence of compliance and contributes to strengthening visitors’ trust, as it confirms that the services provided have been evaluated against specific criteria.
What Accommodation Certification Covers
Certification covers the inspection of facilities, infrastructure, provided services, and all elements affecting the classification category of an accommodation establishment. The assessment is based on technical and operational specifications, as defined by Greek legislation and the corresponding scoring criteria.
In practice, the process examines whether the tourist establishment possesses the required characteristics for the category it seeks to obtain. Stars and keys are not merely commercial indicators, but are linked to specific documentation regarding the quality, functionality, and organization of hospitality services.
Stars and Keys: How Tourist Accommodations Are Classified
Hotels are classified into star categories, while rental rooms and furnished apartments are classified into key categories. In both cases, the classification is based on the technical and operational specifications fulfilled by the accommodation.
According to the current framework, the classification of hotels into star categories is mandatory. The classification of rental rooms and apartments into key categories is recommended, as it documents the quality of the accommodation and serves as a tool for verifying the services provided. In this way, the owner or manager obtains an objective assessment of the tourist establishment.
Legal Framework and Competent Bodies
The classification of main tourist accommodations is connected to the legal framework of Law 4276/2014, while the competent body for the classification of main accommodations is the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels.
Classification certificates are issued based on a technical report prepared by accredited bodies recognized by the Hellenic Accreditation System (ESYD).
Accreditation is particularly important, as it confirms that the inspection body operates according to specific requirements of impartiality, competence, and objectivity. Q-CERT appears in ESYD as QMSCERT INSPECTIONS–CONTROLS–CERTIFICATIONS S.A. and performs classification inspections based on the applicable regulatory and accredited framework.
Accommodation Classification Process
The classification process includes specific stages, from the submission of the required information to the performance of the inspection and the preparation of the technical report.
Initially, the issuance or submission of the operation notification is required, together with the collection of all necessary documents relating to the operation and technical characteristics of the accommodation.
Subsequently, the owner or manager selects an accredited body to perform the inspection. The body carries out an on-site inspection of the premises and evaluates the infrastructure, facilities, services, and operational characteristics of the accommodation.
Following the completion of the inspection, a technical report is prepared, which forms the basis for the issuance of the classification certificate by the competent authority.
Classification Certificate: Validity and Renewal
The classification certificate for tourist accommodations is valid for five (5) years from its date of issuance. Upon expiration of the five-year period, renewal is required through the submission of a relevant application and a new inspection according to the applicable requirements.
Monitoring the validity of the certificate is important for maintaining the accommodation’s compliance. The reassessment confirms that the tourist establishment continues to meet the requirements of its category and that the technical and operational specifications remain in force.
Documents and Information Required Before the Inspection
For the application and inspection process, the required supporting documents, permits, and technical information demonstrating the operation and infrastructure of the accommodation must be available.
The accommodation file may include documents relating to the operation notification, fire safety, sewage systems, technical characteristics of the facilities, and other approvals where applicable.
The completeness of the documentation facilitates the inspection process and allows the accredited body to clearly assess the accommodation’s compliance with the prescribed criteria.
The Role of Q-CERT in the Certification Process
Q-CERT performs inspections and assessments with the objective of providing an impartial evaluation of accommodation compliance with the applicable requirements.
As a certification and inspection body, it evaluates the documentation, facilities, and operational characteristics of the accommodation in accordance with the applicable framework.
The company maintains a team of experienced inspectors, auditors, and administrative personnel, with emphasis on integrity, professionalism, and respect for the client. Its mission includes conducting thorough and documented inspections with impartiality and objectivity.
Accommodation Certification and Additional Distinction Opportunities
In addition to the classification of accommodations into stars or keys, there are additional distinction opportunities that may enhance the recognition and credibility of a tourist establishment.
Q-CERT also performs hotel inspections for the award of the “Greek Breakfast” label.
Such additional certifications or labels may be associated with hospitality quality, accommodation promotion, sustainability, or authentic tourism experiences, thereby strengthening visitors’ confidence.
How to Start the Process
To initiate the process, interested parties may refer to the available Q-CERT forms relating to the certification process, certification terms, and the relevant application form.
The application may be sent to info@qmscert.com for review and scheduling of the inspection by the competent accredited body.
Communication with Q-CERT concerns information regarding the process, application submission, inspection scope, and inspection scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Start your inspection
For more information about the accommodation certification process, you may contact Q-CERT or complete the relevant application form.