Consumer Guide: How to Find and Verify a Local Business

How to Find a Local Business

• Search by business name, category, or city using the search bar on the homepage.
• Browse the full category overview to search by type of service.
• Browse the full city overview, or the province overview, to search by location.
• Use the postal code search on the homepage to find businesses near a specific postal code.
• Filter results by rating, reviews, or featured status, where this is shown on a category or city page.

How to Verify a Business

Before relying on a listing, we recommend that you:

• Verify the business address with an independent map service.
• Verify the phone number by calling before you visit.
• Visit the business's official website directly (not just a search result).
• Check business registration or professional licensing where applicable, through the relevant provincial licensing authority.
• Review customer ratings and feedback on the listing, and keep in mind that newer businesses may have few or none yet.
• Verify current business hours directly with the business — listed hours may be outdated.
• Check accepted payment methods before you visit, if that matters to you.
• Look for professional certifications, memberships, or accreditations relevant to that business's industry.

Before You Visit a Business

• Call the business before visiting to confirm it is currently open.
• Make an appointment in advance if the business requires one.
• Check current business hours and any adjusted hours during holidays.
• Check whether the specific product or service you need is actually available.
• Ask about pricing before you travel, especially for larger purchases or services.
• Ask for directions or parking information if you're unfamiliar with the area.
• Check accessibility accommodations in advance if you need them.

Cross-Checking Information via Other Sources

Compare what you find here with other reliable sources before making an important decision:

• The business's own official website.
• Government business registration databases.
• Licensing authorities relevant to that industry.
• The business's official social media accounts.
• Verified customer reviews on other reliable platforms.
• Google Maps or another reliable map service.

Never rely solely on a single online listing when making an important purchase or travel decision.