Is address verification mandatory for employee background verification (BGV)?

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Well, the simple answer is NO.
Address verification is not mandatory for every employee background verification (BGV) case. The need depends on the role, risk appetite of the organisation, and available documents. It’s all about finding the right balance between trust, safety, and privacy.

What is Address Verification in BGV?

Address verification confirms that the address provided by a candidate is authentic and that the individual resides (or has resided) at that location. It serves as a layer of due diligence, particularly useful when identity or history cannot be verified through other means.

When Is Address Verification Not Necessary?

Address verification may be considered non-essential when:

  • Previous employment records have already been verified,

  • Education qualifications have been authenticated

  • There is no need for physical communication to the address provided.

In such cases—especially for white-collar roles—address checks may be redundant.

When Is Address Verification Recommended?

It becomes important in the following scenarios:

  • Blue-collar workforce (delivery personnel, warehouse staff, drivers, security guards) where education or employment verification may be limited.

  • Incomplete or vague address in government-issued IDs (e.g., Voter ID saying only “Village Deoni, Taluka Deoni, Latur”).

  • When critical documents or physical communications are to be sent during or after employment.

  • As a safety and compliance measure, especially in sensitive roles or high-risk sectors.

Example of a complete address that can be verified:
House Number 17, Village Deoni, Taluka Deoni, Latur, Maharashtra – 413519

Types of Address Verification Offered by OnGrid

OnGrid offers robust address verification solutions through three different modes:

1. Physical Address Verification

A trained field agent visits the address and confirms:

  • Existence of the location

  • Residency of the individual

  • Supporting documents or witness confirmation

Explore Physical Address Verification 

2. Postal Verification

A verification letter is sent to the provided address. The candidate must respond or share the received code as proof of occupancy.

3. Digital Address Verification

A fast, document-based verification via Aadhaar, utility bills, or geo-tagged selfie uploads, ensuring a seamless digital experience without a physical visit.

Features of OnGrid’s Address Verification

  • Different Sources for Verification : OnGrid employs diverse data channels for comprehensive address validation.

  • Faster Turnaround time : OnGrid ensures swift address verification processes, expediting your hiring timeline

  • Reduced Fraudulent Applications : OnGrid’s thorough screening minimizes the risk of fraudulent address claims.

  • Compliance Adherence : OnGrid maintains strict adherence to regulatory standards, ensuring compliant address verification procedures


Final Thoughts

Address verification isn’t always mandatory—but in the right context, it’s a smart addition to your BGV process. It adds a critical layer of security, especially where other records are lacking.Remember: all verifications must be done with consent, and professionally—(the character played by Ashutosh Rana in the movie Haasil), who said:

Humko pataa hai ki tumhara gaanv kahan hai…

Instead, let’s keep it OnGrid-level professional.

Want to include address verification in your BGV workflow?
Talk to OnGrid Experts


FAQs

1. Is address verification mandatory for all job roles during BGV?

No, address verification is not mandatory for every job role. It’s usually essential for roles with limited prior documentation or where safety, compliance, or communication needs are high.


2. What are the benefits of address verification in BGV?

Address verification adds a layer of trust and security, ensures accurate records, supports compliance, and is helpful when sending physical communication to employees or contractors.


3. How long does address verification take?

With OnGrid, physical address verification typically takes 48–72 hours, while digital verification can be completed in real time.


4. What types of address verification does OnGrid offer?

OnGrid provides three types:

  • Physical Address Verification

  • Postal Verification

  • Digital Address Verification

Each is suited to different verification needs and turnaround times.


5. Is the employee’s consent required for address verification?

Yes, all address verifications must be done with the explicit consent of the individual being verified, as per compliance and privacy standards.


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