BuildAlert vs Rated People vs Checkatrade

19/08/2025

If you’re a UK builder or tradesperson, you’ve probably wondered which lead generation service is worth your money: BuildAlert, Rated People or Checkatrade. Each takes a different approach, from planning data scraping to homeowner posting platforms. Let’s compare them head-to-head so you can decide where to invest for the best construction leads.

BuildAlert: Planning Applications as Warm Leads

BuildAlert gives trades direct access to planning applications in their chosen radius. Every project—extensions, loft conversions, bifolds—represents a homeowner who is already committed to building works. For just £2, you can send a branded letter directly, often before they’ve even started collecting quotes.

Unlike Rated People and Checkatrade, you’re not competing in an online bidding war. You’re positioning yourself early, using official data that councils must publish. This makes BuildAlert ideal for builders and construction firms looking for steady, high-quality work.

Rated People: Customer-Posted Jobs

Rated People works like a job board. Homeowners post a task (e.g. “replace a rooflight” or “new kitchen extension”), and tradespeople buy credits to quote. The upside is immediate access to live jobs, but the downside is intense competition and uncertainty—jobs may be posted to multiple trades at once.

Many trades report spending significant amounts on credits with little guarantee of winning work. However, if you’re just starting out and want a quick volume of opportunities, it can still be a useful channel.

Checkatrade: Directory and Reputation

Checkatrade operates more like an online directory. Homeowners search for vetted trades, read reviews, and then make direct contact. For trades, this means paying a membership fee to be listed, and success depends heavily on reviews and location visibility.

It can be a powerful long-term brand builder if you maintain strong customer feedback. But unlike BuildAlert, you’re waiting to be chosen rather than proactively reaching out.

Comparison of BuildAlert, Rated People and Checkatrade features

Comparing how BuildAlert, Rated People and Checkatrade deliver leads to UK trades

Key Differences

BuildAlert: Proactive, based on planning applications, low competition, £2 per lead letter.
Rated People: Reactive, customer-posted jobs, pay-per-credit, high competition.
Checkatrade: Directory listing, review-driven, annual membership cost, passive enquiries.

Which is Best for Your Trade?

- Builders & Extensions: BuildAlert wins—planning applications give the earliest insight into extension and loft conversion jobs. - Small repair trades (e.g. plumbers, electricians): Rated People can deliver quick, smaller jobs. - Established firms with strong reviews: Checkatrade builds credibility and helps maintain visibility.

Tips to Maximise Leads

Don’t rely on a single platform—test two for 3–6 months and track conversion.
Pair BuildAlert with a directory listing for both proactive and passive leads.
Invest in case studies and photos to strengthen your letters and profiles.
Always follow up within a week—speed wins jobs across all platforms.

Get Started with BuildAlert

If you want consistent, high-quality home improvement leads, sign up to BuildAlert today. You’ll see planning applications in your radius, filter by tags like windows, rooflights, or extensions, and send a branded letter for just £2. See our Pricing page for full details.

FAQs: BuildAlert vs Rated People vs Checkatrade

1. Which service gives the best ROI for builders?

For extensions and major works, BuildAlert usually provides the best return. You’re contacting homeowners already committed via planning. Compare this to Rated People where multiple builders may bid, or Checkatrade where you wait for enquiries.

2. Are planning applications really public data?

Yes. UK councils must publish applications. You can verify this on the Planning Portal. BuildAlert simply aggregates them nationwide so you don’t have to search manually.

3. Do I still need a profile on Checkatrade if I use BuildAlert?

It can help. A directory listing builds credibility with reviews, while BuildAlert gives you proactive leads. Many trades use both for balance.

4. How do I stop wasting money on poor leads?

Track conversion rates across platforms. With BuildAlert, you only pay £2 per letter—no expensive credit packs. For Rated People, monitor how many purchased leads convert. See our guide on builder lead generation for tips.

5. Can I use BuildAlert for smaller trades like electricians?

Yes. Many extension and loft applications include significant electrical works. You can filter by keywords like “rewire” or “underfloor heating.” For broader small jobs, consider pairing it with platforms like Rated People.