Direct versus adjacent permit leads
How PermitProspect distinguishes explicit trade permits from explainable downstream project signals.
A direct permit lead contains an explicit source code, permit type, or work-description term for a trade. “Mechanical permit” and “replacement of HVAC system” are direct HVAC evidence. “Electrical service upgrade” is a direct electrical signal.
An adjacent signal is different. A demolition permit may create demand for dumpsters, site work, landscape restoration, or pest control, but it is not a permit for those services. The distinction matters because adjacency adds uncertainty.
The matching order
PermitProspect first uses deterministic source codes. It then checks normalized keywords and category-specific exclusions. Only after those rules can a bounded classifier be considered. Every stored match retains the rule, confidence, taxonomy version, and direct-or-adjacent label.
Weak inference is withheld. A broad remodeling permit with no relevant detail should not become a roofing lead merely because some remodels include roofing. Pest control remains an adjacent-service signal and is never labeled a pest-control permit.
How to work each kind
Direct matches can be routed to a trade queue after status and territory checks. Adjacent matches should be reviewed for project size, timing, and the specific reason shown. If the reason is not useful, dismissing it improves the saved filter rather than lowering the meaning of “lead.”