Tracking Multiple Permits on the Same Property

Shovels uses a robust system of unique IDs to track multiple permits at a single property. Each permit receives a unique permit ID that remains consistent throughout its lifecycle, from application to completion. Each address gets a unique address ID the first time it appears in our system, allowing you to easily connect all permits associated with that location. Similarly, each contractor receives a unique contractor ID when they first appear on any permit. These IDs act as reference points (foreign keys) that enable you to track and join related permits, addresses, and contractors in our database. For example, you can use the address ID to find all permits associated with a specific property, even if the address is written differently across different permits. This system is particularly valuable for tracking property improvements over time, identifying contractors who frequently work at the same location, or analyzing permitting patterns for specific properties. Our consistent ID system makes it simple to build relationships between different data points, enabling sophisticated analysis of construction activity.