Why we published this page
Most home services directories imply more vetting than they perform. Phrases like "licensed and insured pros only" and "background checked" appear on sites that have done neither. We would rather be specific about our process, including its limits, than make claims a homeowner cannot check.
This page describes what we actually do as of August 2026. When the process changes, we update this page and note the date.
How a business gets listed
Listings are compiled from permissioned data imports covering HVAC, plumbing, and foundation businesses operating in the St. Louis metro and St. Charles County. We record business name, service categories, service area, address where published, website, hours where published, and aggregate public review data.
Businesses can also claim their listing, which lets an owner correct details, add a description, upload photos, and specify services and service areas. Claiming is free. Nothing about being listed requires payment, and free listings are not ranked below paid ones as a matter of policy.
What our verification badge means
When a listing shows as verified, it means a human at STL Home Pros confirmed that the business is reachable and that a representative of the business confirmed the listing details are accurate, on the date shown.
That is the entire claim. It is a contact and accuracy check, not an endorsement of workmanship.
What we do not verify
We do not independently verify trade licenses, general liability or workers compensation insurance, bonding, background checks, or warranty terms. We do not inspect completed work, and we do not perform criminal or credit checks on owners or employees.
We say this plainly because the alternative, implying verification we have not performed, could lead a homeowner to skip the check that actually protects them.
How to verify a contractor yourself
Confirm licensing with the building department for your municipality or county, since plumbing, mechanical, and electrical licensing in this region is issued locally. Ask the contractor for a certificate of insurance sent directly from their agent. Check the Better Business Bureau and the Missouri Attorney General's consumer complaint records. Ask for two recent local references for a comparable job.
For permitted work, verify the permit was pulled and that the inspection passed before making final payment.
Reviews and how we handle them
Review counts and ratings shown on listings come from public sources, with the source labeled on the listing and a last-checked date recorded. We do not write reviews, we do not accept payment to remove a negative review, and we do not allow businesses to edit review content.
If you believe a review on our site is fraudulent, or you are a business owner who wants a listing corrected or removed, contact us and we will respond. Our About page describes how leads and paid placement work, including where money enters the business.
Frequently asked questions
Do contractors pay to be listed on STL Home Pros?
No. Listings are free. Some businesses purchase optional upgrades or leads, and those are disclosed. Payment does not create a verification badge.
Can a business remove a listing?
Yes. An owner can request removal through our contact form and we will process it.
Does verified mean the contractor is licensed?
No. Verified means we confirmed the business is reachable and a representative confirmed the listing details on the date shown. Always confirm licensing and insurance yourself.
Sources and further reading
The references below informed this guide.
About the author
Nick Cascani is a New York native who has called St. Louis home for the last few years. He believes getting professional home service should be simple and convenient, and he writes these guides to help local homeowners make confident decisions about their HVAC, plumbing, and foundation projects.
Connect with Nick Cascani on LinkedIn