BACKGROUND CHECKS
Important decisions deserve more than a quick online search.
Professional background research for individuals and organizations throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan.
Understand more before you decide.
Shield provides comprehensive background research for clients making consequential personal, professional or financial decisions. We gather and evaluate information from appropriate public records, databases and other lawful sources, then organize the findings clearly.
Background investigations may assist:
- Employers and organizations
- Attorneys and legal teams
- Landlords and property professionals
- Businesses evaluating potential partners
- Individuals entering important personal relationships
- Clients seeking to verify identities or histories
Research may include:
- Criminal and civil court records
- Address and identity history
- Business affiliations
- Property and asset information
- Professional-license verification
- Public-record and social-media research
- Additional research based on the client’s lawful purpose
The permissible scope of a background check depends on its intended use. Employment, housing and consumer screening may be governed by federal and state requirements. Shield will discuss the purpose before beginning the investigation.
BACKGROUND CHECK FAQS
Go beyond a database search.
The appropriate scope depends on why the information is needed and how it will be used.
What is the difference between an online background check and a professional investigation?+
Low-cost online reports may contain outdated, incomplete or incorrectly matched information. A professional investigator uses multiple lawful sources, evaluates inconsistencies and organizes findings around the client’s specific and permissible purpose.
What information can a professional background check include?+
Depending on the assignment, research may include identity and address history, criminal and civil court records, property information, business affiliations, professional licenses, public records and publicly available online information.
Can Shield perform employment or tenant background checks?+
Potentially, but employment, housing and consumer-related screening may be governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act and other federal or state requirements. Shield reviews the intended purpose and will explain whether specialized authorization or compliance steps may apply.
How long does a background investigation take?+
A straightforward search may be completed relatively quickly, while multi-state, business, asset or identity research can take longer. Shield provides an estimated scope and timeline after learning what needs to be verified.
Does someone need to consent to a background check?+
Consent requirements depend on the purpose, information requested and laws governing its use. Employment, tenant and consumer screening often require specific disclosures and authorization. Shield will not conduct research for an unlawful or improper purpose.