Lodgings FAQ

What happens during a AAA inspection?

The AAA inspector will show up unannounced and ask to speak with a property representative for a brief introduction. The inspector will collect information for potential use in AAA publications and answer your questions; you can also advise the inspector of any plans for future property enhancements. The inspector will request a tour of all public areas and a cross section of guest rooms. Once the evaluation is complete, the inspector will let you know what his/her recommendation is – and a summary copy of the inspection report (confirming the property’s status) will be emailed to the general manager… typically within 7-10 business days.

Properties that match the physical guidelines for a Five Diamond designation will be scheduled for a series of anonymous visits by AAA inspectors to assess the guest services/hospitality level. All Five Diamond designation recommendations are forwarded to AAA’s Five Diamond Committee for further review. Once the committee’s assessment is concluded, the property is advised in writing of the outcome.

‍
I RECEIVED MY HOTEL’S SUMMARY INSPECTION REPORT, BUT WOULD LIKE MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE INSPECTION RESULTS

We have a document that can help you with that: Understanding your AAA Hotel Inspection Reports.
‍

WHAT CAN MY PROPERTY DO IN ADVANCE OF THE INSPECTION TO ENSURE WE RECEIVE OUR DESIRED DIAMOND DESIGNATION?

AAA assigns Diamond designation based on overall quality, range of facilities and level of services offered. While the Diamond designation guidelines section of the Hotel Requirements & Diamond Guidelines outlines what we typically find at each Diamond designation, these are broad guidelines and are not requirements; therefore, meeting all or most of the guidelines cannot guarantee the achievement of a particular Diamond designation. The experience, training, and professional judgment of the AAA inspector are important in weighing other factors that contribute to the final designation assessment.
‍

ONCE MY PROPERTY IS AAA INSPECTED & Listed DO WE NEED TO APPLY FOR INSPECTION EVERY YEAR?

No. An inspector will automatically revisit your property every year.

Can I appeal my property Designation?

Yes. Establishments may use the steps outlined in the Appeals Process to express and resolve any concerns.

Restaurants FAQ

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A AAA INSPECTION?

The AAA inspector will dine anonymously… sampling a variety of menu selections and evaluating the overall quality of food, service and vibe/ambience of your establishment. Once the assessment is complete, the inspector will recommend or assign a Diamond designation. Lastly, AAA will contact the owner, general manager or restaurant designee for a brief interview. This is an extremely important part of the evaluation, as the data gathered is used in our worldwide travel information products.

‍
WHAT CAN MY RESTAURANT DO IN ADVANCE OF THE EVALUATION TO ENSURE WE RECEIVE OUR DESIRED DIAMOND DESIGNATION?

AAA Diamond designations for restaurants represent a combination of the overall food, service and vibe offered. While the Diamond designation guidelines section of the Restaurant Requirements & Diamond Guidelines outlines what we typically find at each Diamond designation, these are broad guidelines and are not requirements; therefore, meeting all or most of the guidelines cannot guarantee the achievement of a particular Diamond designation. The experience, training, and professional judgement of the AAA inspector are important in weighing other factors that contribute to the final designation assessment.
‍

I RECEIVED MY RESTAURANT’S SUMMARY INSPECTION REPORT, BUT WOULD LIKE MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE INSPECTION RESULTS

We have a document that can help you with that: Understanding your AAA Restaurant Inspection Reports.

‍
ONCE MY RESTAURANT IS AAA INSPECTED & Listed DO WE NEED TO APPLY FOR INSPECTION EVERY YEAR?

No. An inspector will revisit periodically to confirm or update your status and designation.

‍
Can I appeal my restaurant’s Designation?

Yes. Establishments may use the steps outlined in the Appeals Process to express and resolve any concerns.

Campgrounds

What happens during a AAA inspection?

The AAA inspector will show up unannounced and ask to speak with a property representative for a brief introduction. The inspector will confirm a few pieces of data and answer any questions you may have. The inspector will then tour all public facilities, sites and bathhouses. At the conclusion of the inspection, the evaluator will advise as to whether the campground is approved.

‍

Do campgrounds receive similar designations to hotel and restaurants?

No, the inspection is pass/fail. There are several basic requirements the inspector will look for in addition to cleanliness and maintenance.

        Management Style of Operation

1. The establishment must have operative, transient sites.
2. The establishment must be in compliance with all local, state, and federal codes.
3. Establishment must assist AAA in resolution of all member complaints.
4. Establishment must accommodate unannounced AAA property evaluations within 20 minutes of notice.
5. Property management, or their representative, must be readily accessible, or provide written notice of contact availability.
6. All property staff must conduct business in a professional and ethical manner providing attentive, conscientious service to guests,
   
   ‍General Facilities‍
7. Entrance and service roads must be well defined and passable.
8. All facilities directly associated with a property must be clean and well maintained throughout.
9. Toilets, sinks, showers and trash containers: must be of adequate number in relation to the number of sites available.
10. Toilets and showers must provide privacy by using a door, curtain or screening
    
    Site Specifications‍
11. All non-tent sites must be easily identifiable, clearly defined, well drained, and reasonably level.
12. If all sites are not equipped with water hook-ups, potable water must be available.