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How to Set Up A2P 10DLC Compliance for Home Services Using a Local Number

Michelle Hoelzer
Updated

Important Disclaimer

This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does following its steps guarantee carrier approval or full compliance with all regulations. You should consult with qualified professionals (e.g., attorneys) and verify the latest carrier and platform requirements to ensure you are operating within the law. Use this information at your own risk.

Overview

If you’re a home services provider—such as construction, remodeling, or roofing—and you plan to send text messages (SMS) from a local 10-digit phone number, you’ll need to comply with A2P 10DLC (Application-to-Person 10-Digit Long Code) requirements. These rules help carriers and consumers by reducing spam and ensuring legitimate businesses reach their customers effectively.

This guide provides general information to help you get started with 10DLC compliance. However, following these steps does not guarantee your campaign will be approved. Always verify current carrier and platform (e.g., Twilio) requirements, as guidelines can change over time.

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1. What Is A2P 10DLC?

  • A2P (“Application-to-Person”): Messages sent from a business or application to an individual.
  • 10DLC (“10-Digit Long Code”): A standard local phone number used for verified business texting in the United States.
  • Why It Matters: U.S. carriers require businesses to register their brand and message use cases to reduce spam and fraudulent messaging.

2. Sample Registration Details & Disclaimers

During registration, you’ll be asked for details about your business and the nature of your text messages.

Example: Campaign Description

Description

“We use this campaign to send text messages to individuals who have requested information or scheduled services with our home services company. All recipients have explicitly opted in via our contact forms or phone inquiries. Messages include appointment reminders, scheduling links, and service updates. We do not send cold marketing or affiliate offers.”

Example: How End-Users Consent

End-User Consent

“End users provide consent by completing our contact forms (or calling in) and checking an opt-in box confirming they agree to receive SMS messages. Our form states that message and data rates may apply, and that users can reply STOP at any time to unsubscribe. We only send messages to individuals who have explicitly requested information or scheduled an appointment with us. No affiliate or third-party marketing is conducted.”

Example: Webform Disclaimer

“By submitting this form, you agree that our company may contact you by phone, text, or email regarding your inquiry. If you would also like to receive ongoing text messages (including promotions), please check the box. Msg & Data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to unsubscribe. For more details, see our Privacy Policy.”

3. Sample SMS Messages

When you register your campaign, you’ll provide a few sample messages to show what you plan to send. Adjust these to match your branding and include “Reply STOP to opt out.”

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  1. Promotional & Introductory

    Hey [[first_name]]! Ready to transform your home? Let [Your Company] bring your dream to life with our unmatched expertise! 🏡✨

    Visit [URL] to get started. Reply STOP to opt out.

  2. Appointment Setup

    Hey there, [[first_name]]! Thanks for scheduling your appointment with [Your Company]. We’ll reach out soon to confirm your details.

    Your appointment is booked for [[appointment_date]] at [[appointment_time]]. Reply STOP to opt out.

  3. Reminder (Day Before)

    Hello [[first_name]]! Your appointment with [Your Company] is tomorrow, [[appointment_date]] at [[appointment_time]]. We’re excited to help with your project.

    Reply STOP to opt out.

  4. 48-Hour Reminder

    Hi [[first_name]]! Just a reminder: your appointment is in 48 hours: [[appointment_date]] at [[appointment_time]].

    We look forward to assisting you. Reply STOP to opt out.

  5. Seasonal Promotion

    🎉 Happy New Year, [[first_name]]! 🎉 Start the year with stunning home improvements. Check out our latest offers at [URL].

    Reply STOP to opt out.

4. How to Capture Consent (Opt-In)

Web Forms

  • Use a clear checkbox on your form to indicate agreement to receive text messages.
  • Include SMS disclaimers like “Msg & Data rates may apply” and instructions for unsubscribing.

Phone Calls

  • If a potential client calls, ask: “Would you like to receive appointment reminders by text?”
  • Note their “yes” in your records for compliance.

Marketing vs. Transactional Messaging

  • Transactional (appointment reminders/updates): Typically just one basic consent checkbox is fine.
  • Promotional (offers/marketing): Make sure you have explicit consent for marketing messages, which might require a separate checkbox or clear language.

5. Opt-Out (STOP) & Help (HELP) Requirements

Carriers require an easy way for end users to stop receiving texts or get help:

  • Opt-Out Keywords: STOP, STOPALL, UNSUBSCRIBE, END, CANCEL, QUIT

    • Example Auto-Reply:

      “You have been unsubscribed. No further messages will be sent. Reply START to re-subscribe.”

      Help Keywords: HELP, INFO

    • Example Auto-Reply:

      “Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Msg & Data rates may apply.”

Most SMS platforms can automatically manage these responses—just ensure they’re turned on.

6. Step-by-Step: Registering Your 10DLC Campaign

Every SMS provider is slightly different, but here’s a general process:

  1. Create/Log In to Your SMS Platform Account

    • Make sure your business profile is complete (legal name, address, EIN).

      Register Your Brand

    • In the platform’s compliance or trust hub, submit your official business details.

    • Upload any required documents (e.g., EIN certificate).

      Create a 10DLC Campaign

    • Choose the use case (e.g., low-volume mixed).
    • Provide a campaign description (see above) and sample messages.

    • Disclose if you send links, phone numbers, or age-gated content (usually not applicable to home services).

      Attach Your Local Number

    • Assign your local 10-digit number to the campaign.

    • Activate any built-in compliance features like automatic opt-out.

      Submit & Wait for Approval

    • Carriers review your submission (takes a few days).

    • Be prepared to provide additional information if asked.

      Test Your Messaging

    • Once approved, send test messages to confirm delivery and check that STOP/HELP functionality is working properly.

7. Important Tips & Disclaimers

  • Following this guide does not guarantee approval. Regulations can change, and each carrier or provider may have additional requirements.
  • Check the Latest Rules: Always verify your SMS platform’s most current documentation to ensure you meet all compliance guidelines.
  • Stay True to Your Use Case: If you register under “appointment reminders” but send heavy promotional messages, you may be flagged by carriers.
  • Monitor Deliverability: Watch for high opt-out rates or blocked messages. This could indicate non-compliance or spam-like content.
  • Need Support? If you’d prefer a helping hand or want a more integrated solution, HeavySet Tech can manage your Twilio setup and ensure you’re meeting A2P 10DLC requirements.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I send promotional messages on the same campaign?

A: Yes, if you specified a “mixed use” case and received consent. Otherwise, you may need a separate campaign or an updated registration.

Q: Do I need special wording for my webform checkbox?

A: Yes, it should clearly state that users agree to receive text messages. Mention “Msg & Data rates may apply,” “Message frequency may vary,” and how to unsubscribe.

Q: How long does approval take?

A: It can range from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on carrier workload and any additional details they request.

9. Additional Resources

  • Your SMS Provider’s Docs: Look for an “A2P 10DLC” or “Compliance” section.
  • CTIA Guidelines (Industry best practices)
  • Twilio A2P 10DLC Overview

Conclusion

By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to using a local 10-digit phone number for SMS in a compliant manner. Remember that this guide is only general information and not a substitute for legal counsel or up-to-date carrier guidelines.

For the most accurate instructions, regularly check with your SMS provider (like Twilio) and consult professional advisors. If you’d like support with implementation and ongoing compliance—or want to explore SMS automations, campaigns, and AI Agents—reach out to HeavySet Tech for a demo. We’ll help you navigate the process and unlock the full potential of SMS for your home services business. Good luck, and happy texting!

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