How Builders Can Generate More Leads with Planning Application Data

25/07/2025

Generating quality builder leads can be tricky, especially when you're competing against numerous other trades for the same work. One of the most effective—and often overlooked—ways to secure steady work is through local planning application data.

Planning application data is freely available information published by local councils whenever someone submits a request for home improvements, extensions, conversions, or new builds. This data isn't just paperwork—it's a goldmine of leads waiting to be tapped into.

However, the key to using planning data effectively is knowing how to filter and identify the best leads and, most importantly, contacting homeowners quickly before your competitors even know the opportunity exists.

Learn more about how tradespeople use BuildAlert to win more jobs.

How to Spot the Best Planning Leads

Not every planning application represents an immediate or profitable job. The trick is to focus on the projects most likely to generate substantial work:

• Home extensions: These usually involve multiple trades and can become significant projects.

• Loft conversions: Require skilled builders, structural work, and often roofing specialists.

• Garage and outbuilding conversions: Typically need considerable internal and external work.

Getting in Front of Homeowners First

Knowing about planning applications is only useful if you're first through the door. Here's what you need to do:

• Be quick: Check planning applications weekly—or use a dedicated service like BuildAlert—so you see them as soon as they're published.

• Personalize your outreach: Send a professionally branded letter directly to the homeowner's door, clearly introducing your business and offering a no-obligation free quote.

• Demonstrate credibility: Mention similar local projects you've successfully completed to build trust and show expertise.

Real-Life Example

One of our users, a builder based in Essex, started using planning application data proactively. Within just a few months, they'd landed several major jobs:

• A two-storey extension in Chelmsford

• A loft conversion in Colchester

• Two garage conversions in Brentwood

Simply put, the builder acted quickly, sent personalized letters directly to homeowners, and clearly demonstrated expertise, which gave them a significant advantage.

How to Start Right Now

If you're ready to generate more high-quality leads:

1. Regularly review planning data in your area.

2. Identify promising projects that match your services.

3. Immediately reach out to homeowners with a professional branded letter.

Using this straightforward approach, you'll get ahead of your competitors, secure more leads, and keep your job pipeline consistently full.

To streamline this process and stay ahead of the competition, consider exploring how BuildAlert works.