Research Methodology

EBSCO Research employs a business model similar to J.D. Power and Associates, an organization renowned for its research integrity.  We conduct extensive consumer research to review contractors, and we use the data collected to provide testimonials and objective, third-party ratings of contractors in dozens of categories.

In just the past three years, we have conducted 60,208 phone interviews with homeowners who had firsthand experience with home service providers.  These interviews resulted in 187,827 company reviews.  Each year, we conduct more than 8,500 new interviews with homeowners, and our research process is ongoing.  While there are numerous methods to solicit feedback, our process has proven successful with thousands of homeowners who rely on our reports. 

To maintain third-party objectivity, we base our ratings on the research conducted by EBSCO employees in our research centers.  We do not incorporate research conducted outside EBSCO.  We also carefully screen prospective employees for connections to contractors to prevent conflicts of interest. No EBSCO Research employee or researcher holds an ownership stake in any home service or repair company.

To meet the Best Pick™ criteria, a company must:

1. Excel in our research when compared with other companies competing in its category.

2. Have its rating based on more than 100 reviews in our research database.

3. Carry general liability insurance as well as any other types of insurance required by the state.

4. Hold proper professional licenses.

5. Honor contracts made with homeowners and suppliers.

6. Sign the Best Pick Company Pledge.

Companies cannot buy a good rating; the only way contractors can obtain a good rating is to earn it by having many satisfied customers and good reviews.  We also never accept reference lists from companies.  In certain circumstances, we conduct secondary research, sampling from the business's entire database and randomly calling customers.  This happens when our primary research shows a company with a high percentage of satisfied customers yet a limited number of reviews. 

After tracking and rating thousands of businesses, we showcase Best Pick companies in our annual report, which is posted online and mailed to homes in many metropolitan communities.  Participation in the Best Pick program is completely voluntary and only offered to companies that excel in our research.