Preparing for an Onsite Inspection
The credit bureaus mandate a single simple onsite inspection of our end-users, our guide below covers everything you need to know.
Company Signage
Is there permanent company signage in the name of your company? Is it clear which company operates in the location being inspected?
Data Security
Is your PC and Data Network only accessible by you and your employees? Are your devices and networks password protected?
Phones
Is your main company line answered in the name of your company and does it ring inside your office or to a cell phone inside the office?
Physical Security
There must be a locking file cabinet and paper shredder present. Inform the inspector if there are any security systems in place (i.e. alarm systems).
What is an onsite inspection?
The purpose of this onsite inspection is to ensure that the location and business entity are bona fide, that credit information is being used for permissible purposes only, and to verify that you are adhering to the access security requirements. You will need to be present during the inspection. Clients doing business from a commercial location only require the inspection once (unless the business moves), while those operating from a residential location (Residential Mortgage only) require an annual inspection. This is mandatory per the credit bureaus.
How to Schedule Your Onsite
After we have completed your end-user agreement and you have paid for your setup, a person from TrendSource will contact you to make an appointment. If they leave a message, please return their call as soon as possible.
What to Expect During the Onsite
The inspector will take mandated photos. If a commercial location: one interior showing the workspace, one where the credit reports are secured, and one showing permanent signage. If residential location: one interior showing the product/workspace, one showing the locked home office door or file cabinet, and one of the exterior.
Commercial Offices
If you are a commercial location: a. The signage should match the Subscriber Name b. No other businesses should have access to the location c. If a business license is required, it should be displayed properly
Home Offices (Residential Mortgage Only)
The business area is not to be located in any portion of the living quarters and there should be permanent signage in the name of the company.. The home office must have a lockable door.
