FAQ Categories
Getting Started
What is CAMbrands?
CAMbrands is a two-sided marketplace for community association management, the first of its kind, that connects HOA Board Members and Community Managers with quality vendors and service providers. In an industry known for being difficult & complex, we strive to provide our users with the tools they need to manage their projects. We know every community association is different and requires a customized approach. Instead of wasting hours getting quotes from dubious vendors, our platform allows rapid search of the best vendors and service providers in the country.
Who can use CAMbrands?
CAMbrands is designed for HOA Board Members and Community Managers seeking quality vendors. And for Vendors looking to grow their business by working with trusted HOAs, Board Members, Community Managers and Decision-Makers.
Is CAMbrands free to use?
HOA Board Members and Community Managers can use basic features for free and can upgrade to Pro or Expert for an enhanced experience. Vendors can use basic features for free and upgrade to Premium or Preferred levels for enhanced visibility and access.
How do I create an account?
Click ‘Sign Up’ on the top menu, select your user type, and complete the required fields.
What documents do I need to join as a vendor?
Different levels require certain information but for the basic Pro Vendor subscription, you’ll need a W-9 and a Certificate of Insurance at minimum.
Posting & Managing RFPs
How do I post an RFP?
Log in as a board member or community manager, click ‘Post an RFP’, and fill in project details, timeline, and scope.
Can I invite vendors to bid on my RFP?
Yes. You can manually invite vendors or wait for the platform to notify qualified providers.
How do I update or cancel an RFP?
Go to your dashboard, locate the RFP, and select ‘Edit’ or ‘Cancel’.
What happens after I post an RFP?
Vendors will begin submitting proposals, and you can review, message, and select a vendor.
Can I reuse or duplicate a past RFP?
Yes, saved templates and past RFPs can be duplicated to save time.
What if I post an RFP and don't get vendor responses?
If you don’t receive immediate responses, rest assured—CAMbrands is committed to finding the vendors you need. We’ll help you refine your RFP, manually reach out to qualified providers, and leverage our network to ensure your project gets covered. We don’t stop until you’re connected with the right vendors.
How much time can CAMbrands save on managing RFPs and vendor bids?
The time spent drafting RFPs, sourcing vendors, collecting and comparing bids, and verifying vendor credentials—before a project even begins—is reduced by more than half.
Vendor Use & Proposals
How do I find work as a vendor?
Complete your profile, upload required documents, and browse or respond to open RFPs.
What is a vendor membership tier?
Vendor tiers (Pro, Premium, Preferred) offer increased visibility and access to tools and exclusive projects.
Can vendors contact boards before submitting a proposal?
Yes, vendors can ask clarifying questions through the messaging feature.
How do I submit a proposal?
Click on the RFP you’re interested in, then select ‘Submit Proposal’ and provide your pricing, timeline, and documents.
How do I improve my chances of getting selected?
Maintain a complete profile, submit clear proposals, offer fair pricing, and respond quickly.
Profiles & Ratings
Can I edit my profile after registration?
Yes, you can edit your profile at any time from your account dashboard.
What are vendor badges?
Badges (Pro, Premium, Preferred) indicate your level of verification, performance, and engagement on the platform.
How are reviews and ratings handled?
Boards and vendors can leave reviews after a job. Ratings are monitored for fairness and abuse.
Can I dispute a review?
If you believe a review is false or abusive, report it to our support team for evaluation.
What info is visible on my profile?
Your company name, services, reviews, licenses, pricing, and uploaded portfolio content are visible to users.
Security & Documentation
How is my data protected?
We use encryption, access controls, and secure servers to protect your information.
What is required for vendor verification?
Vendors must upload valid licenses, a W-9, insurance, and pass a profile review.
Can I upload my own contracts or documents?
Yes, both sides can upload relevant files as attachments during the RFP process.
What happens if my documents expire?
You will be notified to update them; failing to do so may limit your visibility or account status.
Do you share or sell my data?
No, we do not sell user data. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
Communication & Workflow
How do I message another user?
Use the secure in-platform messaging system available in each RFP or project thread.
Can I schedule a call or site visit through CAMbrands?
Yes, you can coordinate calls, interviews, or walkthroughs through direct messaging.
How do I track project progress?
Boards and vendors can update progress notes, upload photos, and confirm milestones through their dashboards.
Can I use CAMbrands for recurring services?
Yes, vendors and boards can coordinate recurring or long-term engagements.
How are disputes handled?
CAMbrands offers support and optional mediation, but legal disputes are resolved between the parties directly.
Billing & Payments
How do vendors get paid?
Payments are handled directly between Boards and Vendors. CAMbrands may integrate payment tools, but is not responsible for collection.
Does CAMbrands take a commission?
Currently, CAMbrands does not charge a commission on transactions. Fees may apply for enhanced subscription features.
Can I issue or receive invoices on CAMbrands?
Yes, vendors can upload invoices and boards can track them in the project workspace.
What payment methods are accepted?
Vendors and boards may agree on preferred methods-ACH, check, third-party tools, or future platform-integrated payments.
Are there cancellation fees?
Cancellation policies are set by the user or contract terms. CAMbrands does not charge cancellation fees for subscriptions. If you want to suspend your monthly subscription you can do so at any time.
Support & Resources
Where can I get help using the platform?
Visit the Help Center on the bottom of our page.
How do I reset my password?
Click ‘Forgot Password’ on the login page and follow the instructions.
Can I deactivate my account?
Yes, submit your request through our help center and we’ll guide you through the process.
How do I report inappropriate behavior or abuse?
Submit your request through our help center and we’ll respond within one business day.