Verification matters more on a services marketplace than almost anywhere else online — you are inviting strangers into your home. Here is exactly what we check, in the order it happens.
1. ABN check against the Australian Business Register
Every business signs up with their Australian Business Number. We query the public ABR within minutes to confirm the ABN is active, the entity name matches, and the GST status is current. ABNs that are cancelled, suspended or under a different trading name are blocked from quoting until the business updates their record.
2. Licence verification for regulated trades
Plumbers, electricians, gas fitters, builders, asbestos removalists and several other trades are regulated by state law. Where a job is in a regulated category, we require the provider to add the licence number issued by their state authority — for example NSW Fair Trading, QBCC in Queensland, the VBA in Victoria or CBOS in Tasmania.
3. Identity & insurance
Sole traders provide a government-issued ID match against the ABN holder. Business profiles can also upload public liability insurance certificates and workers compensation policies; verified insurance shows as a badge on quotes so you can prefer covered tradies on higher-value jobs.
4. Ongoing review checks
Verification is not just at signup. We re-query the ABR weekly, monitor reviews for patterns of complaints, and remove businesses that fall below our standards. Any provider can be reported in one click from their profile or the messaging thread.
What "verified" actually means on a profile
A verified badge means the ABN is active, identity is matched, and where applicable a state licence number is on file. It does not guarantee workmanship — that is what reviews, photos and quotes are for. Always read the provider profile, request itemised quotes, and confirm insurance for jobs over $1,000.