How we verify contractors
Every badge on a contractor profile means something real. Here is exactly what we check — and what we do not.
Licensed
State or local trade license confirmed.
We ask contractors to upload a photo or scan of their current trade license — plumber, electrician, HVAC, general contractor, or whatever their state or municipality requires. A team member visually matches the name on the license to the contractor profile and checks that the expiration date is in the future.
If a license expires, the badge is automatically hidden until the contractor uploads a renewed copy.
Insured
General liability or equivalent coverage on file.
Contractors upload a Certificate of Insurance (COI) or policy declaration page showing active general liability coverage. We verify that the policy is in force and covers the trade they perform on HomesRunner.
We do not require a specific dollar amount, but we look for coverage that is standard for the trade and location.
Background checked
National criminal background check completed.
Contractors consent to a background check through our verified screening partner. We search national criminal databases for disqualifying convictions related to fraud, violent crime, or property damage.
Checks are re-run periodically. If a new report flags a disqualifying record, the badge is removed and the profile is reviewed by our trust team.
The full picture
What happens behind the scenes
Badges are not automatic. Here is the step-by-step process every contractor goes through before the checks appear on their profile.
- 1
Profile review
We review the contractor's trade, coverage area, and business details for accuracy before the profile goes live.
- 2
Document upload
The contractor uploads licenses, insurance, and consent for a background check through a secure portal.
- 3
Verification
Our team confirms documents are valid, current, and belong to the person on the profile.
- 4
Ongoing monitoring
Badges are rechecked on expiry or at scheduled intervals. Profiles with expired documents are flagged.
What verification does not guarantee
Verification badges are a signal of trust, not a guarantee of outcome. A licensed, insured, and background-checked contractor can still have a disagreement with a homeowner, and workmanship quality varies by individual. We encourage you to read reviews, compare quotes, and trust your gut. If something goes wrong, our support team and dispute process are here to help.
Find a verified pro near you
Every contractor on HomesRunner has been reviewed by our team. Start your search and request a free quote today.