Due diligence
Reasonable steps taken to verify facts before a decision.
Plain English
Do the reasonable checks before deciding, and keep a record of them.
If you’re new here
Write down what you checked and when. The record matters as much as the check.
What they probably mean
“Make sure this is defensible if someone asks later.”
Interpretation offered as humour, not authoritative guidance.
En français
Diligence raisonnable : vérifications et documentation.
Bureaucracy level
How much government-speak this phrase carries. Playful indicator, not a judgement of anyone using it.
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Important
GC Simplified is an independent tool, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Government of Canada, and it does not provide official advice. Plain language is an interpretation, and interpretations can be wrong. Always verify against the source and your organization’s own guidance before acting.