> ## 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.

# Search Functionality in Shovels Online

> Understand how permit and contractor search work in Shovels Online, including AND logic, keyword search, and the differences between search types.

Shovels Online provides powerful search capabilities for finding permits and contractors.

## Permit Search vs Contractor Search

| Search Type           | Returns                                                                                                   |
| --------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Permit Search**     | Permits pulled on specific addresses in the geographic area you searched                                  |
| **Contractor Search** | B2B contact information, license data, and classification data about contractors who pulled those permits |

<Info>
  Not every permit will have an associated contractor. This depends on whether the jurisdiction requires contractor information on permit applications.
</Info>

## Search Logic

The dashboard uses **"AND" search logic**. When you select multiple criteria, results match ALL selected criteria, not just one.

**Example:** If you search for:

* Location: San Francisco
* Permit type: Solar
* Date range: 2024

You'll get permits that match **all three** criteria.

## Keyword Search

Search by description keywords to find:

* Brand names (e.g., "Tesla", "Carrier")
* Building materials
* Equipment types (e.g., "heat pump", "HVAC")
* Specific work types

### Search Tips

* The system doesn't account for typos
* Try different terminology variations
* Contractors use different abbreviations:
  * "SFR" = Single Family Residence
  * "A/C" = Air Conditioning
  * "WH" = Water Heater

## What Permit Search Shows

For each permit, you'll see:

* Permit status
* Address (when available)
* Description of work
* Filing and completion dates
* Associated contractor (if available)

## What Contractor Search Shows

For each contractor:

* Business name
* Total lifetime permits pulled
* Contact information (subscribers)
* License status
* Permit history

## Related Articles

* [How Shovels Online works](/docs/knowledge-base/shovels-online/how-it-works)
* [Filters and sorting](/docs/knowledge-base/shovels-online/filters-and-sorting)