> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.shovels.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Contractor Data Overview

> Understand the contractor data available in Shovels, including regional coverage variations and data sources.

Shovels provides comprehensive contractor data derived directly from permit records.

## Data Sources

Contractor information comes from:

* Permit application data
* State contractor licensing boards
* Business registration records

## Regional Coverage Variations

Contractor data coverage varies by region based on what jurisdictions include on permits.

### Strong Coverage Areas

* West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington)
* New York (metro area)
* Certain areas of the Midwest

### Coverage Challenges

**Upstate New York** - Coverage is not as comprehensive as the metro area.

**Massachusetts** - The township structure means permit data and contractor details aren't always readily available online.

**New Jersey** - The state doesn't typically include contractor data on permits.

<Info>
  These regional variations reflect different reporting requirements and data availability across jurisdictions.
</Info>

## What's Included

When available, contractor records include:

* Business name and contact information
* License numbers and status
* Permit history and volume
* Performance metrics
* Employee information

## Related Articles

* [Contractor quality indicators](/docs/knowledge-base/data/contractors/quality-indicators)
* [Contact information fields](/docs/knowledge-base/data/contractors/contact-information)
* [Contractor search in API](/docs/knowledge-base/api/contractors/contractor-search)