At the Required level, installers are certified to handle home theater, distributed audio and video, lighting control and structured wiring. Within a year of certification, they must add central vacuum, telephone systems or home networking. Additionally, Required level dealers must have at least one CEDIA Level I-certified installer. Contractors achieving Preferred status are qualified in all seven tech categories, and must have at least half their staff certified at CEDIA Level I, plus at least one Level II-certified installer. Contractors certified at either level are active CEDIA members, and have completed additional courses designed to make partnering with builder firms a seamless process. All participating ESCs also complete AVAD’s “Basic Training,” which covers accounting disciplines, licensing, permits, insurance and more. In addition, AVAD’s selling course, “Sales Staff Training” teaches contractors the specifics of effectively communicating with builder clients. AVAD’s comprehensive Model Home Program trains builders’ sales staffs and provides marketing materials such as brochures, point-of-sale displays and informational videos and DVDs potential buyers can take with them. AVAD is now in the process of training dealers and interviewing prospective builders, and the program is scheduled to be fully launched on April 1. To request more information, click here, or call 866.FOR.AVAD. Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, FL, AVAD is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — the Supplier 100 of NAHB. This feature is solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing on this page should be construed as policy, an endorsement, warranty or guaranty by the National Association of Home Builders of the featured product or the product manufacturer. The National Association of Home Builders expressly disclaims any responsibility for any damages arising from the use, application or reliance on any information contained on this page. | 
