An AI visibility audit checks whether tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI search show your business when people ask about your services. It should show you where you appear, where you are missing, and what to improve.
Before paying for one, ask to see a sample report. Look for these four things.
1. Questions your customers would actually ask
The audit should test questions about your services and the places you serve. For example: “Who installs attic insulation in San Jose?”
That is more useful for finding new customers than asking, “What does this AI know about my company?” Ask to see the full list of questions before the work starts.
2. The answers, with links you can check
The report should show which AI tool was tested, when it was tested, and what it answered. You should be able to see whether it named your business, recommended a competitor, or linked to your website.
A score alone is not enough. If a report says you appeared in 4 of 12 answers, ask to see those answers. That result describes the questions tested, not every search your customers make.
3. Specific changes to your website
“Create more content” is too vague. A useful recommendation names the page, explains the problem and tells you what to change.
For example: “Your service page does not say which cities you serve. Add your actual service area and a relevant project example.”
This is an example, not a client result. The point is that you should understand the recommended work without needing the agency to translate it.
4. A clear first step
Ask which change matters most and why. A page that search engines cannot access needs a different fix from one that gets visitors but hides the contact form.
The proposal should tell you who will make the changes, what they cost, and whether that work is included in the audit fee. An audit may only deliver a report.
How will you know if the work helps?
Ask the agency to repeat the same questions later and compare the answers. Also track visits to your website and requests for your services.
Being mentioned is a useful signal. The business goal is to turn that attention into customers. Keep a simple record of new inquiries and how people found you.
Be cautious with promises of guaranteed AI recommendations. The agency can improve your website, but it does not control what an AI tool says.
Quick answers
Does AEO replace SEO?
No. AEO means helping your business appear in AI answers. Google says its usual SEO practices still apply to its AI search features.
Do I need special AI files on my website?
Google does not require special AI files or special markup for AI Overviews or AI Mode. Ask what problem any proposed technical change will solve.
Should I buy an audit or start with a free report?
A free report can give you a first look. A paid audit should go deeper and give you specific work to do. Compare what each includes before deciding.
