How we collect and verify data
Transparency is the point of KnownPros. Here is exactly where our listings come from, what we review, how the trust score is calculated, and what our badges do — and don't — mean.
Where listings come from
We build the directory from two sources: public data (such as OpenStreetMap, used under the ODbL) and information submitted by business owners who create or claim a profile. Businesses we haven't verified are labeled honestly as unverified — we never invent listings or reviews.
What we review
- · License information — the license number a business submits, checked against the trade's NJ requirements.
- · Insurance certificates — reviewed with their expiration date; the badge lapses automatically when a certificate expires.
- · Ownership — confirmed before a profile is marked "claimed," via email domain, phone, website, or document.
- · Contact details — email and phone verification.
Documents are uploaded privately and reviewed by our team, typically within 1–2 business days. Only the verification status is shown publicly — the documents themselves are never published.
How the trust score works
The 0–100 trust score is computed only from verification and profile completeness — email (10), phone (10), confirmed ownership (15), reviewed license (25), insurance on file (25), a mostly-complete profile (10), and a recent update (5). It measures records, not workmanship, it cannot be purchased, and every profile shows exactly how its score was earned.
What a badge does not mean
A badge reflects a record we reviewed — it is a starting filter, not a guarantee of work quality. Always confirm license and insurance status directly with the state and the insurer, and get references, before you hire.
Who maintains this
The KnownPros editorial team reviews records, writes the cost and hiring guides, and keeps the directory current. Spotted something wrong? Every profile has a "report incorrect info" link, and you can always contact us.
Frequently asked questions
How do you decide what a business's badges mean?
Badges reflect specific records our team has reviewed: a submitted license number, an insurance certificate with an expiration date, confirmed ownership, and verified contact details. A badge is a record status, never a guarantee of work quality.
How often is the data updated?
Listings and statistics update continuously as businesses are added, claimed, and verified. Insurance badges lapse automatically when a certificate's expiration date passes until a current document is submitted.
Can a business pay for a better score or placement?
No. The trust score is computed only from verification and profile completeness, and search placement is ordered by distance and verification. Neither can be purchased.
Maintained by the KnownPros editorial team. Last updated August 3, 2026. See our verification policy and directory data.