How We Verify ADU Builders

Anyone can claim to be a contractor. We don't just take their word for it. Here's exactly what happens before a builder appears on ADU Builder Hub.

Step 1

License verification

We check every contractor's license against their state contractor licensing board. We confirm the license is active, not expired, and has no major disciplinary actions on record. A builder with a lapsed or suspended license is immediately removed from the directory and will not be reinstated until the issue is resolved.

Step 2

Insurance confirmation

We require proof of general liability insurance and, where applicable, workers' compensation coverage. Builders must provide current certificates of insurance. We flag profiles when insurance is approaching its renewal date, and remove listings when coverage lapses.

Step 3

Profile review

We review every builder's submitted profile for completeness and accuracy — including project photos, business description, and service area. Generic or stock-photo profiles are rejected until real project photos are provided. We also manually check that business names and descriptions match actual ADU-related services.

Honest ratings — or no ratings

We don't show star ratings until a builder has at least 3 verified reviews. We confirm that each reviewer is a real homeowner who worked with that contractor. A builder with 1 review won't show a 5-star badge — they'll show "New listing" instead.

We believe an honest directory is more useful than a flattering one. If a contractor has genuinely earned great reviews, those reviews will speak for themselves.

What the badges mean

Claimed

The builder has submitted their profile. License and insurance have not yet been confirmed. Treat this like an unverified listing.

Verified

License confirmed via state board. Insurance on file and current. Profile reviewed by our team. This is the baseline for appearing prominently in search results.

ADU Specialist

5+ completed ADU projects with photos. Verified badge requirements met. 4.5+ rating from real reviews. Active on the platform for 6+ months.

Think something is wrong?

If you believe a listing is inaccurate, a builder's license has lapsed, or something else looks off — please let us know. We take every report seriously and investigate within 48 hours.