Best 5 Local
How rankings work
Every Best 5 list follows the same published method, in four steps.
1. Find every option
We collect the businesses that offer the service in the area from public business listings.
2. Check the basics
Businesses must be open, reachable by phone and have enough real reviews to judge fairly.
3. Score the record
Every business gets one score from its public record. The five highest scores make the list.
4. Explain each pick
Each business gets a short, plain reason based on its record. We never invent reviews, awards or prices.
Record checks
Where we can, we check a business's state license, registration, permit history and insurance certificate. Each profile shows what was checked, the source and the date.
Corrections
Spotted something wrong? Tell us and we'll check and fix it. See also how we make money.
Rankings, in plain words
How is the Best 5 score worked out?
We score six things from each business's public record: its rating (weighted by how many reviews it rests on), review volume, how recent the reviews are, years in business, how complete its details are, and the record checks we could confirm. The five highest scores make the list.
What do labels like “Best for budget” mean?
A label points to where a business stands out on its own record, such as the lowest price level or the longest track record. It helps you match a pick to your job. It is not a separate award and it doesn't change the order.
How often does a Best 5 list change?
We refresh ratings, reviews and record checks regularly and re-score every list. If a business slips or a new one scores higher, the order changes with the next update, and the date at the top of the list moves with it.
Can a business pay to get into the Best 5?
No. Paid profiles and sponsored spots never enter the score. A sponsored spot is always labelled and sits outside the ranked five.