SOA certification body
Since 2000, CQOP SOA has assessed companies against the general, technical and financial requirements for qualification to carry out public works. It operates as an authorised SOA qualification body under ANAC, the national anti corruption authority, supervision. It quickly became the leader in the SOA certification sector and to this day, remains the recognized benchmark for the entire construction sector.
We verify who can build for the country
What is an SOA body
An authorised SOA qualification body assesses compliance with the applicable requirements and, following a successful assessment, issues certification for specific works categories and classifications.
ANAC authorisation
CQOP SOA has been authorised to carry out certification activities since 2000 and currently operates under the supervision of ANAC.
What we verify
The company’s general and technical-economic requirements and the documentation proving its ability to carry out works in the requested categories and classifications.
The requirement of impartiality
The assessment of the requirements is carried out independently and impartially. The outcome of the preliminary investigation depends on compliance with the regulations.
Born with the qualification system
Foundation and authorisation
CQOP SOA obtains authorisation to carry out certification activities and begins verifying the requirements of companies wishing to take part in public works contracts.
Generalsoa
CQOP SOA founds Generalsoa, a national association of the leading SOAs, with the aim of improving the qualification system.
A journey of continuous growth
Over 16,000 businesses and consortia have chosen CQOP, which has issued more than 80,000 certificates since it began operating.
A national network
Ten local offices and a large number of local representatives. Specialised staff supporting Italian and foreign companies throughout the qualification process.
Our figures
CQOP’s more than 25 years of operation as an SOA certification body are reflected, first and foremost, in its results.
Why choose CQOP
Experience and stability
Over 25 years in business and an organisation capable of handling both routine cases and complex situations.
Multidisciplinary expertise
A comprehensive analysis of technical, financial, corporate, administrative and regulatory requirements in complex cases.
Proprietary technology
Using our dedicated Delivery and Katherine tools, we optimise the processing of your files, ensuring you have a secure, state-of-the-art solution.
Nationwide presence
Regional offices and local contacts forming part of a national organisation.
International experience
Verification of Italian and foreign documents, works and requirements
Long-term continuity
Support throughout the certification’s lifespan: triennial reviews, amendments, extensions and renewals.
The value for the business — a clear, structured and traceable process, with contacts and tools designed for a complex and constantly evolving sector.
Beyond certification: training, research and dialogue
CQOP promotes professional development and research to contribute to a more informed, transparent and quality-oriented market.
Training
Courses on SOA qualification, requirements, CEL, technical management and the Public Contracts Code.
Webinars
Updates on regulatory developments, ANAC, case law and amendments to the Code.
Events and networking
Meetings with trade associations, professional bodies, businesses and institutions.
Guiding values
Expertise and rigour · Transparency · Independence · Accountability · Approachability · Innovation
Governance and Shareholder Structure
Board of Directors
Chair
Dr Alessandra Giorgi
Directors
Maria Rosaria Brancaccio, Solicitor
Dr Francesco Lazzaroni
Dr Desiderio Berdini
Chair of the Board of Statutory Auditors
Dr Mario Broggi
Shareholdings
Main certification activities
SOA qualification for companies is based on categories (13 for OG general works and 35 for OS specialised works) and on value classifications, from I to VIII. The process may concern first qualification or renewal, the three-year review, an increase in classification or the addition of new categories.
First qualification
Certificate renewal
Three-year review
Classification increase
Extension to new categories
Certificate changes
Corporate transactions
Qualification of foreign companies
Quality and compliance, certified
SOA certification bodies operate under the supervision of ANAC and are required to guarantee compliant and transparent procedures. On this front, CQOP SOA has obtained:
ISO 9001:2015 quality certificate (PDF)
Quality policy (PDF)
UNI/PdR 125:2022 gender equality certificate (PDF)
Gender equality policy (PDF)
Whistleblowing regulations (PDF)
SOA certification bodies: frequently asked questions
Who issues the SOA Certificate?
As at 1 January 2021, there are 15 SOAs authorised by ANAC to issue SOA qualification certificates. CQOP SOA Spa has a network of professionals throughout Italy to guide you every step of the way.
Who checks the validity of the SOA certificate?
The SOA certificate is issued, following a specific assessment of the regulatory requirements, by Certification Bodies (SOAs). The list of authorised SOAs is available on the website of ANAC (Italian National Anti-Corruption Authority), which promotes transparency in Public Administration and especially in public procurement. Every year ANAC submits a report to the Italian Parliament on the activities carried out in the previous year, including inspections of the SOA qualification system.
Where are companies with SOA certification listed?
The list of companies holding a valid SOA certificate can be consulted by anyone in the company register on the website of ANAC (Italian National Anti-Corruption Authority) www.anticorruzione.it Searches can be made by entering the company name, its tax code or that of its technical director.
Can an SOA body assist companies throughout Italy?
Yes. CQOP SOA operates with 10 local offices and with representatives in Italian provinces, available to Italian and foreign companies. The website is available in Italian and English, and documentation can be submitted online via the Delivery CQOP platform.
What certifications and guarantees can an SOA offer companies?
CQOP SOA is certified UNI EN ISO 9001:2015 for quality and UNI/PdR 125:2022 for gender equality, has adopted Model 231 and holds the civil liability insurance policy required by law, with average annual coverage of approximately 100 million euros on the risk assumed.
Get to know CQOP and start your qualification process
Find out how to obtain SOA certification or contact the CQOP office nearest to your company.
