Fact-Checking Policy

What “fact checked” means

An article only displays a fact-checked label when a second identified person has reviewed material factual claims for accuracy and completeness. Routine copyediting or automated spelling checks do not qualify.

Source hierarchy

Where possible, we verify claims against primary or authoritative evidence: standards organizations, government agencies, peer-reviewed research, official technical documentation, utilities, product documentation, and our own documented measurements or observations.

Claims that need extra care

We apply additional scrutiny to claims involving electrical safety, HVAC compatibility, energy savings, privacy, security, regulations, incentives, technical specifications, prices, subscriptions, and product availability because errors in these areas can materially affect a reader's decision.

Time-sensitive information

Connected-home products and energy programs change frequently. Articles should identify publication and modification dates, and fact-checking does not guarantee that a time-sensitive fact will remain current indefinitely.

Conflicting evidence

When credible sources disagree, the article should not hide the uncertainty. We aim to identify the disagreement, explain which evidence we relied on, and avoid presenting an uncertain estimate as a universal fact.

After publication

If a verified claim later proves materially wrong, the article should be corrected under our Corrections Policy.